What the heck is going on?! In this week's episode, hosts Shelby Hagerdon and Matt Vojacek discuss what trends they've been seeing in Content Marketing this year and their predictions for the rest of the year/the start of 2026. They explore key trends, challenges, and opportunities that have emerged. From the rise of brand-centered podcasts to the impact of AI on content creation, discover how businesses are adapting to stay ahead. Tune in for insightful discussions and practical tips to refine ...
Aug 11, 2025•48 min•Ep. 26
In this episode of Content Alchemy, Matt and Shelby discuss motion branding. They explore how integrating movement, sound, and visual effects can transform static brand elements into dynamic storytelling tools. Discover why motion branding is more crucial than ever for creating a recognizable and relatable brand personality. Tune in to learn how brands can harness motion to connect with audiences on a deeper level and stand out in a crowded market.
Jul 28, 2025•39 min•Ep. 25
In a rapidly changing world, advertisement is always evolving. But what has been left to perish? What are the advertising strategies that don't work anymore? And is there any hope of bringing them back? Shelby Hagerdon and Matt Vojacek memorialize these dead advertising strategies of the past while asking the question, “Maybe they were just misunderstood?” In an age of trends, perhaps it’s time to look backwards for inspiration.
Jul 14, 2025•45 min•Ep. 24
Two months ago, Duolingo was at the top of its game. An untouchable marketing team with their beloved, chaotic owl mascot. But at the end of May, they announced they would be taking an “AI first approach.” The approach seemed innovative, but they also mentioned that they were replacing contractors with AI. Suddenly, everyone remembered that Duolingo is more than memes and languages - it’s also a tech company. And their younger audience who is already afraid of being replaced by AI turned on the ...
Jun 30, 2025•30 min•Ep. 23
Shelby and Matt explore the evolving landscape of content marketing, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and audience connection. They discuss various examples of brands like L'Oreal, Shopify, Pepsi, and H&R Block that have successfully integrated show business into their marketing strategies. The conversation highlights the shift towards long-form content, the significance of authenticity, and the future of brand storytelling in a rapidly changing digital environment.
Jun 16, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 22
In this conversation, Shelby and Matt are joined by Heidi Howes and Lisa Woodward to discuss marketing towards mothers. They also discuss the mission of Motherful, an organization supporting single mothers led by Heidi and Lisa. They explore the representation of mothers in marketing, the importance of ethical storytelling, and the challenges faced by single mothers. The discussion emphasizes the need for community support, understanding the diverse experiences of motherhood, and the power of wo...
May 19, 2025•44 min•Ep. 20
Shelby Hagerdon and Matt Vojacek welcome Jill Hufford, a marketing strategist at Spark Business Works. They discuss Jill's extensive experience in B2B marketing, the importance of branding and messaging, and the collaboration between sales and marketing teams. Jill shares insights on the challenges of B2B marketing, the differences between B2B and B2C strategies, and her predictions for the future of marketing, emphasizing the need to return to fundamental marketing principles amidst rapid chang...
May 05, 2025•42 min•Ep. 19
In this conversation, Shelby and Matt are joined by Madison Massey (Director of Marketing & Development) to discuss the challenges faced by nonprofits, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Madison shares her journey in the nonprofit sector, detailing her role at St. Stephen's Community House and the impact of funding cuts on their operations. The discussion highlights the importance of problem-solving, community support, and the need for effective marketing strategies to navigate these...
Apr 21, 2025•48 min•Ep. 18
In this episode of Content Alchemy, Shelby Hagerdon and Matt Vojacek delve into the intricacies of thought leadership, focusing on the importance of honesty, transparency, and relationship building in content creation. They discuss Matt's 10-week series documenting the growth of Made By Things, exploring the challenges and insights gained from sharing personal stories and experiences. The conversation emphasizes the significance of storytelling in business and how it can foster deeper connection...
Apr 07, 2025•40 min•Ep. 17
In this episode, Matt is joined by Jess Fogal from Provide at Content Adventure in Columbus, OH. They discuss the evolution of Provide, a fintech company, and its marketing strategies, particularly focusing on the challenges of targeting diverse audiences. They highlight the importance of emotional storytelling and the effectiveness of podcasting as a content marketing tool. Jess shares insights on measuring ROI and the complexities of attribution in marketing, emphasizing the need for a human c...
Mar 24, 2025•45 min•Ep. 16
Shelby and Matt discuss the importance of community engagement in content creation, the challenges of data collection, and the dynamics of sales funnels in marketing by exploring data they've collected through their in-person events, Content Adventures.
Mar 10, 2025•44 min•Ep. 15
Happy Valentine's Day! Shelby and Matt were joined by resident Made By Things artists, Melissa Johnson and Colin van't Veld for a fun co-worker version of the Newlywed Game (all themed around content marketing and the artist's perspective, of course). This is a fun episode you can't miss and will give you a better insight into the internal studio's view on branded content.
Feb 17, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 14
In this conversation with Matt and Shelby, David Peregrina shares his journey as a designer and creative director, emphasizing the importance of creating belonging through design. He discusses his experiences in the nonprofit sector, the challenges of working with limited resources, and the significance of storytelling in connecting with communities. David also highlights the role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations.
Feb 10, 2025•52 min•Ep. 13
It's a new year! So, Shelby and Matt are spending this episode reflecting on their journey through the podcast, discussing the lessons learned about the value of creative work, the impact of AI, and the importance of building trust within teams. With 11 episodes so far, there's already a lot to discuss!
Jan 20, 2025•54 min•Ep. 12
Rick Preston shares his journey through the video production industry with Shelby and Matt, discussing his experiences from film school to his current role as Head of Creative Services at Global Payments. He emphasizes the importance of embracing opportunities, the transition from a technical to a strategic mindset, and the role of AI in the creative process. Rick also highlights the challenges of balancing in-house resources with external partnerships and the significance of fostering creativit...
Dec 23, 2024•47 min•Ep. 11
Shelby and Matt are joined by Dilara Casey, who shares her extensive journey in marketing, discussing the evolution of the field, the importance of creativity and strategy, and the impact of AI. She emphasizes the need for aspiring marketers to find their niche and the significance of mid-career transitions. Dilara also reflects on her personal experiences, including her battle with cancer, and how it shaped her perspective on work and fulfillment.
Dec 16, 2024•47 min•Ep. 10
Shelby and Matt are joined by Mariah Bliss, Director of Content Marketing at Travelers, as she shares her journey in content marketing, discussing the differences between content marketing and traditional marketing, the importance of thought leadership, and the role of AI in the content creation process. She emphasizes the need for genuine connections and relationship management with thought leaders, as well as the significance of prioritizing content that aligns with business goals.
Dec 09, 2024•43 min•Ep. 9
Shelby and Matt are joined by Harvey J. Austin as he shares his journey from news to healthcare advertising, emphasizing the importance of diversity and authentic voices in marketing. He discusses the challenges faced by people of color in the industry and the need for empathy and trust in healthcare communications.
Dec 02, 2024•37 min•Ep. 8
Matt and Shelby are joined by Chris Logsdon as he shares his journey through the creative industry, highlighting his experiences at VaynerMedia and the lessons learned about team dynamics, trust, and the importance of communication. He emphasizes the need for regular check-ins with team members to foster a positive work environment and discusses how these principles translate into his current work in brand identity. The discussion also touches on the relationship between clients and creatives, t...
Nov 25, 2024•50 min•Ep. 7
Shelby and Matt chat with Chris Trum to explore the intricate relationship between numbers and marketing. They discuss the importance of both quantitative and qualitative data, how to navigate business decisions using metrics, and the role of passion in creating compelling content.
Nov 18, 2024•50 min•Ep. 6
In this conversation, Shelby, Matt and their guest Paul Kidd, the Executive Creative Director at WorldStrides, explore the theme of risk in creative collaboration. They discuss the importance of navigating risks in team dynamics, the role of calm leadership in stressful situations, and the significance of asking the right questions to foster creativity. The conversation also touches on the balance between speed to market and a test-and-learn approach, emphasizing the need for in-house teams to p...
Nov 11, 2024•45 min•Ep. 5
In this conversation Matt and Shelby discuss the multifaceted role of content strategy in marketing with Drysen Carsten. They emphasize the importance of creating engaging and emotionally resonant content that builds trust and inspires curiosity among audiences. They share insights on the significance of relatability and vulnerability in storytelling, the need for bold marketing strategies, and the critical touchpoints in the customer journey that foster brand loyalty. They also highlight the ro...
Nov 04, 2024•40 min•Ep. 4
On this special Halloween edition of Content Alchemy, Matt and our guest, Drysen Carsten, will be cracking the case on marketing murders and how these brands could potentially be brought back from the dead! Shelby is your storyteller and we will be chatting through 3 brands that follow a spooky theme. Play along at home!
Oct 31, 2024•53 min•Ep. 3
In this conversation, Chelsea Druso discusses the unique culture at Provide, emphasizing inclusivity, flexibility, and the importance of storytelling in marketing. She shares her experiences as a mother in a predominantly female marketing team and how this environment fosters creativity and empathy. The discussion also highlights the significance of accessibility and representation in content creation, the alignment of values with external partners, and the preference for qualitative over quanti...
Oct 28, 2024•44 min•Ep. 2
In this episode, Shelby Hagerdon and Matt Vojacek introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds in content marketing. They explore the importance of storytelling and creativity in content marketing, as well as the need to entertain and engage audiences. They also discuss the concept of taking up space and standing out in a crowded market. The episode concludes with a preview of what to expect from future episodes of the podcast.
Sep 06, 2024•30 min•Ep. 1
