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Strategy · 13 April 2026

The Marketing Mix Is Evolving

Less hacky. Less algorithm-chasing. More intentional.

ZF

Zac Froud

Founder, ADVCY · Billboard 2025 Global Power Player

Key Takeaways

  • Marketing is getting less hacky and less algorithm-chasing — and more intentional
  • The best marketers are using old channels more intelligently, alongside new ones, to drive better outcomes
  • The old playbook is not disappearing; it is being reoriented around conversation, trust, and owned relationships

Less hacky. Less algorithm-chasing. More intentional.

Working with some of the best marketers in the business, we are using old channels more intelligently, alongside new ones, to drive better outcomes.

The old playbook is not disappearing. It is being reoriented around conversation, trust, and owned relationships.


If you are rethinking how your brand builds relationships, let's talk. Visit advcy.ai or book directly at advcy.ai/lets-talk.


Frequently Asked Questions

How is the marketing mix evolving in 2026?

Marketing is becoming less hacky, less algorithm-chasing, and more intentional. The best marketers in the business are using old channels more intelligently, alongside new ones, to drive better outcomes.

Is the traditional marketing playbook dead?

No. The old playbook is not disappearing — it is being reoriented around conversation, trust, and owned relationships. Established channels still work when they are used more intelligently alongside newer ones.

What should brands focus on instead of chasing algorithms?

Conversation, trust, and owned relationships. Rather than relying on hacky, algorithm-chasing tactics, brands are rethinking how they build relationships with their audiences — combining old channels used intelligently with new ones.

Written by

Zac Froud, Founder of ADVCY

Billboard 2025 Global Power Player. 17 years across Warner Music, Universal, Disney, and Coinbase. Building technology that turns audiences into communities.