In this episode of Talks With Teads, Carly Carson, Head of Integrated Media at PMGl, joins us to reflect on what really matters in today’s data-rich, tech-saturated media environment. As marketers chase agility, scale, and innovation, Carly brings us back to the fundamental truth: your customer is telling you everything you need to know—if you’re willing to listen.
Key Insights:
Start with the Customer
When asked for her top piece of advice to marketers, Carly is clear: “Really think about your customer and put them at the center.” It may sound obvious, but in an era where brands are flooded with data, that insight is often lost. “Our customers are telling us every day what they want, what they care about, and what they like to do,” she says. The challenge—and the opportunity—is harnessing that data in a way that meaningfully powers strategy.
Move Beyond the Buzz
AI fatigue is real. Carly calls out the industry’s current obsession with AI-powered everything, pointing out that what enables AI is often more important than AI itself. “What goes into feeding all of these systems is just as important, if not more important, than what comes out,” she notes. The next phase of the conversation needs to focus less on hype and more on thoughtful application.
A Grounded Approach
Asked for parting wisdom during an intense industry week, Carly keeps it real: “Stay hydrated and enjoy the week.” Her approach reflects a broader ethos—one of balancing innovation with intention, and high performance with human connection.
In a time when marketers are under pressure to do more with less, Carly’s advice is a timely reminder: the best strategies still start with empathy, clarity, and putting people first.
For more insights from industry leaders, explore our Talks With Teads series.