December 2025
The Quieter Forces that Accelerated in 2025
As we wrap up a whirlwind 2025, whose pace along too many dimensions felt out of control, I wanted to share some notes that could spark new discussions in 2026. This is the first of what I plan on being a regular, probably biweekly, newsletter. I would really love your feedback, and be honest with me if these are useful or a distraction.
In the past few months I've been in rooms and conference halls with CMOs, CEOs, innovators, and operators across industries. There is a lot of sameness to the combination of boasts and challenges as to whether and why AI is or is not generating value. But there are also some quieter patterns that are unmistakable—and many of the most important ones aren't showing up in social feeds or conference recaps.
Key Discussions from December 11 LinkedIn Live
The AI Implementation Gap
Organizations are discovering that the real challenge isn't adopting AI technology—it's adapting their decision-making processes and organizational structures to leverage it effectively.
Personalization at Scale
The convergence of AI capabilities and customer data platforms is finally enabling true personalization at enterprise scale, but success requires rethinking entire marketing operations.
The Human Element
As AI takes on more analytical tasks, the most successful companies are doubling down on uniquely human capabilities: creativity, empathy, and strategic intuition.
What's the subtle subtext you are seeing?
Wishing you a peaceful holiday and a healthy, rewarding 2026!
Thanks,
Dave
