Podcast Summary: Do This, NOT That: Marketing Tips with Jay Schwedelson | Episode 359

Episode Title: Newsletter Hacks & Nepo Babies? Yup. 😏 Ask Us ANYTHING❓ | Ep. 359
Release Date: June 18, 2025
Host: Jay Schwedelson
Presented By: Marigold

1. Introduction to the "Ask Us Anything" Format

In Episode 359 of "Do This, NOT That," host Jay Schwedelson introduces a special "Ask Us Anything" segment. This format allows listeners to submit a variety of questions—ranging from work-related inquiries to more unconventional or humorous topics. Jay emphasizes the value of audience engagement, encouraging listeners to contribute their queries through the podcast's website.

2. Work Question: Leveraging Newsletters to Stay Ahead in B2B SaaS Healthcare

Listener Query:
Bri from Salt Lake City, Utah, poses a question about efficiently staying updated with the latest trends and developments in the B2B SaaS healthcare industry. She seeks actionable strategies to accelerate her knowledge acquisition in her professional sphere.

Jay’s Response:
Jay offers a pragmatic solution centered around the utilization of email newsletters. He outlines a step-by-step approach to identify and subscribe to high-quality newsletters that cater specifically to the B2B SaaS healthcare niche.

“[00:04] Jay Schwedelson: ...the hack of all hacks, which I don't know why nobody does, go to ChatGPT. This is so simple and you could do this whatever industry.”

Key Steps Highlighted:

1. Utilize ChatGPT for Curated Recommendations:
   Jay suggests using ChatGPT to generate a curated list of top-tier newsletters. By inputting a detailed prompt—such as specifying the industry (B2B SaaS healthcare) and desired content areas (go-to-market strategies, product growth, marketing insights)—users can receive a comprehensive list of reputable newsletters complete with registration links.

   “[00:10] Jay Schwedelson: ...give me a curated list of high quality newsletters with the registration links included.”

2. Streamlining Subscription Management:
   To manage the influx of newsletters, Jay recommends two methods:

   • Dedicated Email Address: Create a new email account solely for newsletter subscriptions to keep them separate from primary communications.
   • Email Filtering: Implement email filters to automatically sort incoming newsletters into designated folders, enabling easy access and searchability without cluttering the main inbox.

3. Efficient Information Retrieval:
   Once subscribed, Jay advises treating the newsletter folder as a personal search engine. By using keyword searches within this folder, users can swiftly locate relevant information on specific topics, whether it's AI advancements, email marketing techniques, or search engine optimization trends.

   “[00:20] Jay Schwedelson: ...this becomes your own personal search engine for everything in your space.”

Benefits Highlighted:

• Time Efficiency: Automates the process of finding and subscribing to relevant newsletters.
• Organized Information: Keeps all curated content in one easily searchable location.
• Access to Quality Content: Ensures access to well-researched and expertly curated marketing insights.

3. Ridiculous Question: Perspectives on Nepo Babies in Entertainment

Listener Query:
Stacy from Marlboro, New Jersey, poses a "ridiculous" yet thought-provoking question: "Are you okay with Nepo babies in the world of entertainment?" She seeks Jay's stance on individuals who receive career boosts due to familial connections in the entertainment industry.

Jay’s Response:
Jay delves into the concept of "Nepo babies," a shorthand for individuals who benefit from nepotism—gaining significant career advantages through famous or well-connected family members. He offers a balanced perspective, acknowledging both the challenges and merits associated with such situations.

“[00:25] Jay Schwedelson: ...Nepo being short for nepotism. A Nepo baby in the world of entertainment or fashion or music or whatever, is basically someone that got a big career boost because their parent or close relative are super famous or super well connected or whatever.”

Key Points Discussed:

1. Understanding Nepotism:
   Jay defines "Nepo babies" and provides clarity on the term, ensuring listeners grasp the nuances of how familial connections can influence career trajectories in high-profile industries.

2. Challenges Faced by Nepo Babies:
   He highlights the significant pressure and scrutiny these individuals often endure, as they are frequently expected to match or surpass the achievements of their famous relatives. This environment can lead to heightened stress and potential disappointment if expectations are not met.

   “[00:30] Jay Schwedelson: ...the likelihood of you living up to what they did is almost zero. So you're setting yourself up for a lot of stress, a lot of heartache...”

3. Passion and Dedication:
   Despite the advantages, Jay emphasizes that many Nepo babies possess genuine passion and dedication to their fields. Their decision to follow in their relatives' footsteps often stems from a deep-seated love for their craft, which can drive meaningful contributions regardless of their background.

4. Success Stories and Failures:
   Jay cites examples to illustrate the spectrum of outcomes for Nepo babies:

   • Successful Instances:
     • Miley Cyrus: Jay acknowledges her substantial success, noting that she has surpassed her father, Billy Ray Cyrus, in fame and impact.
     • Enrique Iglesias: Presents him as another example of a Nepo baby who has achieved greater fame than his father, Julio Iglesias.
   • Less Successful Attempts:
     • Kelly Osbourne: References her cover of Madonna's "Papa Don't Preach" as a project that did not sustain momentum.
     • Jacob Dylan: Mentions his initial success with the song "One Headlight" but questions his subsequent career trajectory.

   “[00:35] Jay Schwedelson: ...Miley Cyrus, her dad, Billy Ray Cyrus. She's bigger than Billy Ray Cyrus. That's awesome...”

Conclusion on Nepo Babies:
Jay concludes that while Nepo babies benefit from inherent advantages, their success ultimately hinges on their talent, dedication, and ability to carve out their unique identities within their respective industries. He expresses respect for those who navigate the complexities of nepotism and manage to establish their own paths.

4. Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Towards the end of the episode, Jay encourages listeners to engage further with the podcast by leaving reviews and subscribing for more actionable marketing tips. He emphasizes the importance of community feedback in enhancing the show's reach and quality.

“[00:40] Jay Schwedelson: ...Subscribe to make sure you get the latest episode each week for more actionable tips and a little chaos from today's top marketers.”

Key Takeaways:

• Efficient Information Gathering: Leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT can streamline the process of identifying and subscribing to valuable industry newsletters, saving time and ensuring access to high-quality content.

• Organized Learning: Implementing effective email management strategies allows marketers to create a personalized repository of information that's easily searchable and accessible when needed.

• Balanced View on Nepotism: Understanding the dynamics of Nepo babies in entertainment reveals a complex interplay between inherited advantages and personal effort, highlighting the importance of passion and resilience in achieving sustained success.

This episode of "Do This, NOT That" offers practical strategies for marketers seeking to stay informed and provides thoughtful reflections on the impact of nepotism in creative industries. Jay Schwedelson's insights serve as valuable guidance for both professional development and understanding broader industry phenomena.