Play isn’t a luxury – it’s a survival strategy. It’s how your brand stays curious, relevant, and emotionally resonant in a world that’s always changing.

At TWO30, I take those frameworks and build what I call a Minimum Viable Brand – the smallest set of assets that still feel whole.

The real danger isn’t “AI replacing you,” it’s someone using AI better doing what you do faster and smarter.

The brands that win next year are the ones laying groundwork before January.

Here’s what your brand needs to act on now – grounded in emerging creative trends and macro shifts – to step into 2026 strong.

Brands that win are the ones that show up with clarity, consistency, and purpose - not panic.

The businesses thriving today aren’t the cheapest — they’re the ones whose brand strategy builds trust, tells a story, and gives people a reason to stay loyal when money is tight.

Punctuation isn’t just grammar — it’s voice. It changes how your copy feels… When you’re building a brand, even the smallest line changes how your message lands.

Speed doesn’t equal strategy, and automation doesn’t mean insight.

Audiences behaviour has changed - and the old planning rule book doesn’t cut it anymore.

Planning doesn’t need to be perfect - but it does need to be intentional.

A one-size-fits-all approach no longer works. Businesses must understand the unique characteristics and preferences of each audience segmentation and tailor content accordingly.

Without a clear strategy, a strong message and a smart distribution plan, even the best design can fall flat.

Whether you’re running a small business, a side hustle or building your brand from the ground up, media planning matters.