Have you ever walked away from a conference with pages of notes but no idea where to start?

That's exactly how I felt after spending three days at Cairns Crocodiles with Mia Fileman from Campaign Del Mar.

In this episode, we're sharing the ideas that made us stop, think, and question the way we approach marketing. We chat about why creativity is making a comeback, why strategy should come before tactics, and why the brands people remember aren't the ones trying to blend in.

If you're a founder, marketer or small business owner who wants to build a better brand, create marketing people remember, and stop chasing every shiny new tactic, this episode is for you.

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One of the biggest surprises from the conference was what wasn't being talked about. Despite all the noise around AI, very few speakers saw it as a competitive advantage. Instead, the conversation centred on creativity, instinct, purpose-led marketing and understanding human behaviour.

We discuss why founder energy is such a powerful advantage, why the best ideas often feel uncomfortable before they're successful, and how brands like Pinterest are helping people get off their screens and back into real life.

We also talk about why podcasting is having a moment, why attention on its own isn't enough anymore, and why the brands creating genuine value will always outperform the ones chasing the latest algorithm. Whether you run a purpose-led brand, an ecommerce business or a service business, these are ideas that reach far beyond marketing.

We also share some of the behind-the-scenes realities of attending an event like this while running businesses and raising families. Because great marketing isn't just about campaigns. It's about creating space to think differently, challenging your assumptions and bringing fresh ideas back to your customers.

If you've been wondering why your Meta ads aren't working, whether your marketing has become a little too safe, or how to create marketing that people remember, I think you'll enjoy this conversation.

As I always say, ads are an amplifier. Brand first, ads last. The best Meta ads, Facebook ads and Instagram ads start with a clear strategy, great creative and a genuine understanding of your customers.

I'd love to know what stood out most for you from this episode. Are you going to embrace more creativity in your marketing? Focus more on long-form content? Or stop worrying so much about following the so-called rules? Come and tell us over on Instagram. We'd love to continue the conversation with you at @lumemarketing

Contact details mentioned:

● Connect with Mia Fileman or Campaign Del Mar on Instagram, Facebook or via her website.

● Connect with Lume Marketing on Instagram, Facebook of via our website

● Megan Winter on LinkedIn

References

● Cairns Crocodiles

● Amy Keen

● Paula Bloodworth

● John Evans' podcast Uncensored CMO

● Pinterest

● Xanthe Wells

● Uber Eats