Our recent bi-annual company summit in New York City was more than just a meeting – it was a vibrant celebration of collaboration, creativity, and community. Over several action-packed days, the Kite Hill team transformed the city into our dynamic workspace, combining professional insights with memorable experiences. We participated in a slate of “Lunch and Learn” sessions to further our professional development, bringing together industry leaders who shared cutting-edge insights that challenged and inspired our team. From branding strategies to insights into advertising spend to social media trends, we explored the intersections of technology, marketing and authentic communication.
The Intersection of Branding and Storytelling
Michael Verez Mora, founder and CEO of Yellow Lion, kicked off our sessions with a compelling look at branding and SEO in the age of AI. With AI quickly becoming the search engine of choice, there is a growing importance of optimizing your website to stay ahead of the curve. This underscores the importance of having a cohesive and compelling brand first and foremost. Key takeaways include:
The need for owned content that stands out in AI-driven search results
Strategies for creating a brand that naturally draws curiosity
Leveraging AI to expand online reach and visibility
Advertising Spend: A Macroeconomic Perspective
Diane Malloy, VP of Sales, and Lauren Fisher, GM of Business Intelligence, from Advertiser Perceptions provided an insider’s view of current advertising spending trends. Their presentation was more than just numbers – it was a strategic roadmap for understanding the industry landscape. Highlights include:
Current macroeconomic trends shaping advertising spend
The vital importance of data-driven research in strategic planning
Insights that can help clients navigate complex market conditions
Agility and Authenticity
Nick Borenstein, GM of The Webby Awards, delved into the nuanced world of social media trends, addressing the phenomenon of “brainrot” and the challenge of meaningful online engagement. His session unpacked:
The fine line between trend-hopping and authentic brand communication
Strategies for understanding and connecting with your audience
How businesses can navigate the rapid-fire world of social media without losing their core identity
These Lunch and Learn experiences are more than just informative presentations – they’re a testament to Kite Hill’s commitment to growth, innovation and collaborative learning. We left inspired, equipped with new perspectives, and ready to bring these insights directly to our client work. As we look forward to our next team summit, we’re reminded that true professional development is an ongoing journey of curiosity, adaptation, and meaningful connection.
– Lauryn Russell, Account Executive