Think agencies fail because they can’t execute? Think again. The real problem is how teams use them. After 50+ tech engagements, three patterns keep even high-performing GTM teams from getting full value:

Fragmented briefs → fragmented outcomes

No experimentation layer → slow learning

Data without a feedback loop → wasted spend

Get alignment, experimentation, and insight-driven data right, and agencies stop being a cost center — they become a growth engine.

OpenAI has begun testing clearly labeled, contextual ads inside ChatGPT for Free and Go users in the U.S., partnering with Omnicom, WPP, and Dentsu to onboard brands into its first Ad Pilot Program.

Early partners across retail, CPG, entertainment, and software are reportedly committing high six-figure minimums not just for reach, but for learning.

This isn’t just a new placement. It signals that conversational AI is becoming an intent-rich surface, similar to search but with deeper context and fewer available ad slots.

Unlike traditional paid media, this environment isn’t interruption-based. It’s response-based. That changes the strategy.

Conversational AI isn’t replacing search, it’s evolving it. And as consumer discovery shifts to chat-based environments, marketers who understand how to show up natively will gain a disproportionate advantage.

If you're considering how conversational AI fits into your 2026 growth strategy, AScaleX can help you develop a distinctive voice that engages within AI-driven environments.

I’m thrilled to announce that AScaleX is a proud partner FTW: NYC, the New York Fintech Week Conference, taking place April 28–30, 2026, at The Penn District by Skylight, adjacent to Madison Square Garden.

In partnership with Fintech Is Femme and Fiat Growth, we’re helping shape this inaugural event to bring together the leaders, builders, and innovators driving fintech forward. There has been an extraordinary level of collaboration behind the scenes, and I’m excited for the industry to experience what we’ve been building. You won’t be disappointed.

FTW: NYC is a three-day event connecting founders, operators, investors, and global brands. With a focus on innovation, leadership, and security, it’s designed to spark meaningful dialogue and foster real connections.

If you’re someone building, investing in, operating, or shaping the future of fintech, I encourage you to secure your spot early, as space will be limited. And remember, tickets go fast.

Register here.

Want to be part of FTW: NYC as a partner, sponsor, or speaker?

Send me an email.

See you there!

I’m a big believer in intimate gatherings. They create space for depth, nuance, and real connection.

On February 11 in San Francisco, we co-hosted a small dinner at The Cavalier with fintech and payments leaders from Highnote, TomoCredit, Beluga, Crunchbase, Fintech Next, TabaPay, Coinbase, and more.

Together with Codeword, AScaleX convened operators, founders, and media for an honest conversation about the next wave of fintech, including AI, distribution in the social era, sustainable growth, stablecoins, credit innovation, and the evolution of modern payments.
No panels. No slides. Just candid dialogue and shared insight.

These are the rooms where signal rises above noise, and this one felt like a meaningful glimpse into what’s next. And the positive feedback from the group made it clear that I’ll be doing more of these in the future.

Check out the photos from last Wednesday’s dinner!

Get excited, marketers!
AScaleX is launching a podcast all about GTM strategies straight from the founders and CEOs who are building and scaling in the trenches.

Expect tactical insights, real-world lessons, and behind-the-scenes stories you won’t find in any press release.

Are you a founder or CEO with a bold perspective on GTM strategy? We’d love to have you on the show.  Reply to this email and let’s chat.

Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more insights, stories, and strategies from the world of scaling and growth! Oh, and don’t forget to check out our new website! 😊