Remember Why Don’t You?, the UK show that urged kids to turn off the TV and get creative? Let’s channel that energy this year: less doomscrolling, more purposeful action.

What does 2025 hold? LinkedIn’s buzzing with the same “WTF happened in 2024?” vibes, sprinkled with AI chatter and resolutions. But where’s the optimism? Let’s bring it back.

“If you change only one thing in your life, the people, you increase your chances of success tenfold.”
— Kim Perell

Tough words I’ve heard since I was 16, and they couldn’t be truer. It’s time to rethink who you surround yourself with. Growth, resilience, and success start there. Let’s dive into strategies to elevate your circle and your year.

Introducing: Audience 101 Always On, Always Connect Conference

Introducing: Audience 101 The Always On, Always Connect Conference

Unlock New Opportunities, Amplify Impact

At Audience 101, we connect forward-thinking professionals to share tailored insights and foster trust in a world shaped by dynamic media, audience behaviours, and emerging technologies.

Why Join?

• Great Speakers: Monthly talks from industry leaders at brands like Formula E, Adobe, and Condé Nast, plus experts in social psychology, cultural change, and emerging tech

• Always-On Access: This isn’t just a network - it’s where real connections happen

• No Noise, All Value: Authenticity over algorithms, trust over transactions

💡Trying to keep up? McKinsey reports that companies are scrambling to adapt to rapid changes in consumer behaviour.

Join as a Founding Member with a 20% discount^* and attend our first event on January 30th. Click here to subscribe now.

Follow me on LinkedIn for updates on more speakers and the final line-up for the 30th January, this week.

*Limited-time offer with exclusive pricing and availability.

This piece, with its layered reflections on energy, truth, and growth, perfectly encapsulates our theme of recharging and rethinking for 2025. It reminds us to leave behind what no longer serves us and embrace the new with purpose and creativity.

Here’s What We’re Talking About Today:

Audience Insights: How to Be More Human

In a world craving connection, emotional and social skills are more valuable than ever:

• 51% of workers feel disengaged

• 69% say recognition would make them work harder

• Demand for social skills will rise by 26% in the US by 2030

💡Takeaway: The most successful brands in 2025 will be community builders, not just product pushers.

Here’s how:

• Build Trust: Focus on authentic, long-term relationships.

• Stay Flexible: Create adaptable systems for both physical and digital spaces.

• Use Data Wisely: Gain insight from your data but be sure to sense-check it in real life!

It’s time to create dynamic, human-first brands.

Case Study: How Miu Miu Got It Right

In 2024, Miu Miu’s sales surged 93%, hitting €1 billion. Their success wasn’t just about quirky designs; it was about authentic connections.

What Worked:

• Authentic Style: Playful aesthetics resonated with Gen Z without alienating loyal customers

• Community Building: Literary clubs and pop-ups created lasting relationships

• Strategic Collaborations: Partnering with cultural icons like Gigi Hadid boosted relatability and reach

💡 Takeaway: In 2025, brands that “give a sh*t” will win by staying authentic, and fostering trust.

Behind the Scenes: Real Friends, Real Feedback 

As a father, I’m finally learning to listen. Growth isn’t about echo chambers; it’s about welcoming those who challenge you. True allies push you to succeed, even when feedback stings.

As Harvard Business Review notes, emotions can never be fully suppressed, which is why giving and receiving feedback can feel like navigating a minefield. In a world obsessed with disruption, we often gravitate toward people who echo our ideas instead of those who challenge us.

💡 Takeaway: Build a circle of trust that lifts you up while holding you accountable. Tough love leads to long-term success.

A Little More Depth: Try something different to pitching

Blair Enns’ The Win Without Pitching Manifesto shows how to ditch pitches and reclaim creative freedom.

Key lessons:

• Shift Roles: Be a trusted expert, not a presenter

• Inspire Action: Guide clients to solutions instead of selling ideas

• Be Selective: Say no to protect creativity and attract better clients

💡 Takeaway: In 2025, it’s all about autonomy and trust. Let’s win without pitching.

Mood Board: Some Stuff to Make You Stop and Think

Call to Action (CTA)

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Final Reflection

2025 is the year to rethink, recharge, and connect with purpose. Success starts with leaving behind what no longer serves you and embracing what sparks growth. Let’s build authentic connections, foster creativity, and thrive together.

Join Audience 101 and make 2025 your best year yet.