Soccer’s explosive rise in U.S. popularity is reshaping the marketing landscape. No longer just a global pastime, the sport has become a cultural force uniting communities, igniting passion, and offering brands a rare chance to connect authentically with fans at every level.

With the 2026 World Cup in the U.S. approaching fast, now is the time for marketers to step onto the pitch and craft strategies that resonate deeply and last well beyond the final whistle.

As we hit the halfway point of the year, we’re revisiting our original 2025 social media trend predictions. What’s still trending? What’s now a must-do? And what’s just breaking through?

From AI behind the scenes to long-form video making a comeback, here’s your mid-year pulse check on what’s hot.

Balancing work and family life isn’t always simple, especially for dads who care deeply about both. Juggling the demands of a busy job while staying present at home can be a real challenge, particularly in industries like advertising where the pace is fast and the expectations are high.

Jess Poe, Account Director at Brandience, talks about his experience as a working dad in the ad world. With over a decade of experience in client service and strategic leadership, Jess shares how he manages the demands of agency life while being a present and involved father.

Video streaming services have become a major force in digital marketing, with the average household subscribing to at least three different platforms according to Basis  2025 Media Trends Report. It's almost impossible to picture our video consumption habits without them. Whether you're binge-watching a new series, enjoying a favorite film, or discovering the latest releases, the landscape for reaching viewers is increasingly fragmented and competitive.

As a result, marketers must innovate and think outside the box to capture and maintain viewer attention.

During the Great Recession, I kept returning to one belief: in every downturn, there’s opportunity. I called it the “upside of down.” Brands that leaned in, while others pulled back, came out stronger.

Here we are in 2025, facing a new set of economic uncertainties. Whether or not you're seeing direct effects today, it's smart to ask, “How will my brand respond when budgets tighten or consumer behaviors shift?” Because downturns will come. How you respond could define your brand’s next era of growth.

In sports, success hinges on strategic planning, teamwork, and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Coaches meticulously draw up plays, analyze opponents, and make real-time decisions to lead their teams to victory. Sound familiar? Crafting the next great campaign for your brand requires a similar approach filled with thoughtful planning, strategic alignment, and a deep understanding of your target audience.

As sports seasons are in full swing, let’s explore if a sports partnership is right for your brand and how to maximize on these opportunities.

Balancing work and family life is no walk in the park, especially for moms who juggle multiple responsibilities every day. The demands of a career and the needs of a family can often feel overwhelming, making it essential to find strategies to manage both.

Danyelle, VP of Digital and Programmatic Media at Brandience, shares her journey as a parent in the ad industry and her life as a mom to two energetic kids. With nearly 15 years in the digital media space, she offers valuable insights on balancing a demanding career with family responsibilities, emphasizing the important role companies play in making this balance more manageable.

Do you think content is just for the marketing team? Think again. Instead of viewing each piece as a one-time effort, the goal is to repurpose it across various channels and teams, tailoring it for different audiences and extending its lifespan. This holistic approach not only enhances marketing efforts but also supports sales and client relations initiatives, building credibility, trust, and authority. Plus, it saves your entire team from having to start from scratch for each goal.

Covid-19 significantly transformed healthcare, leading to the growth of several key areas including home healthcare, mental health services, digital health technologies, and telehealth. The pandemic accelerated the adoption of these services as healthcare systems adapted to new challenges and patient needs. This shift not only improved access to care but also highlighted the importance of flexible and resilient healthcare delivery models.

In an era dominated by streaming services and podcasts, surprisingly 79% of consumers aged 18 and up tune in to traditional radio and spend an average of 1 hour and 41 minutes a day listening. This enduring love for radio blends nostalgia and adaptability, proving that some classics never fade away. In fact, there are approximately 15,445 radio stations in the U.S.

With nearly three decades in media and advertising, including local radio, I've witnessed the evolution of audio media. From live broadcasts to digital audio, I’ve seen and heard it all. My passion for radio dates back many years. When I'm not jamming with my band, you can bet I'm immersed in music. It was radio that sparked my love for music in the first place.

So, how has radio managed to keep up with the times and engage such a large percentage of consumers?