#214 - Alex Melen: Building a Nimble Agency and Balancing AI Efficiency with Authenticity

Alex Melen is a digital marketing expert, entrepreneur, and co-founder of SmartSites, one of the largest digital agencies with a team of over 400. Known for his strategic approach to marketing, Alex shares insights on building a nimble agency, adapting to rapid industry changes, and the crucial role of authenticity in today’s noisy, AI-driven market. This episode delves into Alex’s approach to navigating the digital landscape—from his strategies for achieving a meaningful ROI at conferences to the importance of personal branding in a world where AI content and automated lead gen services are becoming commonplace. Alex offers advice on maintaining authenticity in client interactions, insights on leveraging AI effectively, and how adaptability has been key to his agency’s growth. [00:03] - Alex on traveling and speaking at international events [02:45] - Getting the most out of conferences and ROI tips [06:03] - The “trade show funnel” and engaging attendees authentically [08:28] - The challenges of measuring true ROI at conferences [10:18] - Personal branding vs. automated approaches in a crowded digital space [18:02] - Using AI effectively without sacrificing content quality [29:52] - How AI might disrupt search and the implications for businesses [35:00] - Why adaptability is the key to survival in a rapidly changing world [38:18] - Alex on avoiding spam tactics and the importance of authenticity [40:51] - The value of personal brand in a world of AI-driven interactions Alex also shares his views on the future of AI in marketing and why personal connections and human touchpoints will always hold unique value. Tune in for an in-depth look at navigating AI, conferences, and brand building in today’s digital era. SUPPORT AND CONNECT: Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/huntspeaks Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jayhuntofficial  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jayhuntofficial  Twitter: https://twitter.com/jayhuntofficial  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/socialmediaspeaker/  Website: https://jayhunt.social