Staying ahead of marketing trends isn’t about playing catch-up—it’s about knowing what’s next. At Moontide, we’ve got a secret weapon for that: Libby McKenna, our media maven and trendspotting expert. If you want your brand to lead rather than follow, it’s all about being where your audience is, anticipating shifts, and moving fast.
Here’s how Libby stays ahead of the curve—and how you can, too.
1. Social Media Monitoring: The Art of Strategic Scrolling
Libby kicks off her day with a “scroll session,” but she’s not just swiping for fun. Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn give real-time insights into what’s hot, what’s fading, and how brands are making their moves. Social platforms are the frontlines of marketing innovation—if you’re not watching, you’re already behind.
Pro Tip: Stay sharp by tracking how brands use new formats like short-form video, influencer collaborations, and interactive stories to engage their audience.
2. Podcasts: Your Daily Marketing Masterclass
If you’re not listening, you’re missing out. Libby’s daily lineup includes The Daily for news, Marketing Over Coffee for industry updates, and The Toast for pop culture gems. Podcasts provide a steady stream of insights, ideas, and updates that you won’t find in your feed.
Pro Tip: Make podcasts part of your routine. You’ll pick up on emerging trends while knocking out your commute or morning workout.
3. Newsletters: Curated Intel Right in Your Inbox
Libby’s inbox is a goldmine of market intelligence. She swears by Morning Brew, Social Insider, The Strategist, and Marketing Dive for cutting through the noise and delivering actionable insights. These newsletters help her spot trends before they become mainstream, so Moontide stays one step ahead.
Pro Tip: Subscribe to newsletters that not only cover the news but break down the “why” behind the trends.
4. Social Media Accounts to Follow
Libby doesn’t just consume content—she follows the right creators and brands. Accounts like @prettylittlemarketer and @medspa_socialmedia provide inspiration and practical examples of what’s working in the market.
Pro Tip: Follow niche influencers and industry leaders to see firsthand how they’re pushing the boundaries of social media marketing.
5. Key Takeaway: Be Where Your Audience Is
The biggest secret to staying ahead of marketing trends? Being where your audience is. As Libby puts it, “Whether it’s memes, newsletters, or podcasts, you’ve got to be in the mix.” Trends evolve fast, and if you’re not paying attention, you’ll miss your chance to ride the wave.
How to Apply Trends to Your Strategy
Spotting trends is one thing; turning them into action is where the magic happens. Here’s how you can make it work:
- Move quickly but don’t rush. Trends have short lifecycles, so act fast, but stay strategic.
- Test the waters with small-scale executions. Not every trend is right for your brand, so test before you invest.
- Stay flexible. The best strategies are adaptable. Keep room in your content plans for last-minute trend integrations.
Final Thought: It’s a Moving Target
Staying ahead in marketing isn’t about luck; it’s about consistently observing, learning, and adapting. Libby’s relentless curiosity and real-time insights help Moontide lead the way—and with the right tools and tactics, your brand can do the same.
Libby McKenna is Moontide’s resident media expert. With a knack for trendspotting and a history of guiding brands to the forefront of digital innovation, she ensures Moontide is always ahead of the game.
