AI Optimism, ROI Pressure, and Marketing Focus | Emily Thompson from CoSchedule

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, Emily Thompson, Marketing Manager at CoSchedule, breaks down the findings from CoSchedule's latest marketing research report and what they reveal about AI adoption and performance pressure. While 79% of marketers say AI improved their results, ROI is declining across channels and lead generation remains the top priority. Emily shares why marketing project management is the overlooked lever for growth, how content saturation is raising the stakes, and why staying human is more critical than ever. If you're navigating AI-driven change, tightening KPIs, and rethinking your productivity systems, this conversation delivers clarity and direction.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, we sit down with Taylor Jones, Founder and CEO of Wishbone Advisory, a boutique e-commerce marketing agency helping manufacturers unlock untapped digital potential. With deep roots in home furnishings and performance chemicals, Taylor shares how brands can navigate multi-channel orchestration, retail marketplace SEO, and digital transformation to drive meaningful growth. He breaks down why many manufacturers excel at product development but struggle with digital visibility, and how strategic channel build-out, LinkedIn marketing, and trade events fuel both B2B and e-commerce success. If you're aiming for X factor growth while staying transparent and accountable, this conversation delivers practical insights you can apply immediately.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, Philip Aguib, VP of Sales and Marketing at Vantree Systems, breaks down how electronic data interchange (EDI) powers global supply chains—and why a human approach wins complex B2B deals. Vantree Systems delivers integrated EDI solutions that connect ERPs like SAP, Microsoft, and NetSuite across manufacturing, distribution, logistics, and CPG industries. Philip shares how referrals, trade shows, and partner ecosystems drive growth, and why outbound sales is becoming essential in an AI-shaped buying landscape. He also dives into accelerating long sales cycles, leveraging CRM data segmentation, and building trust through empathy. A practical conversation for growth leaders navigating technical markets.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, David Murimi, Co-Founder and CEO of TrueHost, shares how his team helps small businesses launch, grow, and convert online without overspending. TrueHost goes beyond traditional web hosting by offering an AI website builder, Google Business profile optimizer, and practical go-to-market tools designed for early-stage founders. David dives into why conversion optimization matters more than pouring money into ads, how content marketing drives qualified traffic, and why fast, functional websites often outperform flashy designs. If you're a founder or marketer focused on extracting more value from your existing traffic, this conversation will reshape how you think about your website's role in growth.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, Luke Rexing, Director of Sales and Marketing at T-Rex Cookie, shares how a family-founded brand is scaling through sharper positioning and smarter e-commerce decisions. Known for its half-pound and five-pound cookies, T-Rex Cookie is doubling down on corporate gifting as a high-impact growth channel. Luke breaks down their transition to Shopify Plus, lessons learned from website conversion mistakes, and why clear calls to action and social proof drive sales. He also reveals how AI product photography and LinkedIn ads are shaping their B2B strategy. This conversation is packed with practical insights for founders navigating growth, branding, and digital optimization.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, Riley Gray, Founder of Orcaach Agency, shares how her woman-founded growth company helps scale women-owned businesses through clarity and structured revenue systems. Blending strategy, brand growth, and operational expertise, Riley focuses heavily on product-based brands, especially in industries like skincare and healthcare hybrids. She explains why organic search and word of mouth marketing drive their acquisition, and how their website acts as a qualification tool rather than a brochure. Riley also dives into leadership mindset, staying grounded in a chaotic marketing landscape, and building growth systems rooted in brand alignment and audience clarity. If you're a founder or marketing leader seeking sustainable revenue strategy, this episode delivers practical insight.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, Joe Starnes, CEO of Ombre, shares how his direct-to-consumer wellness brand uses gut health and microbiome testing as an entry point to lifelong health. He breaks down how Ombre educates customers on the "second brain" and connects digestive health to sleep, mood, and performance. Joe dives into practical growth tactics, from Meta ads to precise landing pages that mirror ad intent. He explains why A/B testing fundamentals still win, how attribution challenges impact marketing decisions, and why small habits compound into massive health and business results. This conversation blends wellness insights with actionable lessons for marketers focused on conversion and clarity.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, we welcome Gina Paulhus, Co-Owner of Genuine Essiac, an herbal tea brand rooted in a centuries-old wellness tradition. Gina shares how she and her husband built a thriving direct-to-consumer business by combining community, content, and long-term customer trust. From leveraging organic search and a 27,000-member Facebook group to building a powerful email marketing engine, Gina reveals how consistency fuels sustainable growth. She also explains their bold six month guarantee and affiliate program strategy on Shopify. If you're building a mission-driven brand, this conversation offers actionable insights on retention, SEO, and authentic leadership in competitive markets.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, we welcome Sam Loria, Strategic Partnership Manager at Savance. Sam introduces us to Savance's innovative solutions for business safety, security, and accountability. He delves into how their software streamlines visitor management, emergency evacuations, and access control. Sam shares insights on automating entrances, leveraging technology for cost-effective security, and the importance of real-time accountability during emergencies. He also discusses Savance's multi-channel approach to customer acquisition, emphasizing the significance of partnerships and referrals in their growth strategy.

In this episode of Pathmonk Presents, host Ernesto welcomes Mirza Sanchez, a leader at ISS, a pioneer in video analytics and AI-powered security solutions. They delve into the evolution of security technology, discussing the crucial role of data intelligence and automation in enhancing safety across various sectors. Mirza explains how ISS utilizes advanced analytics to identify trends and improve city safety and critical infrastructure. Listeners will gain insights into how tailored approaches can better serve diverse markets, especially in Latin America, and the importance of continuous learning in a rapidly changing tech landscape.