PPC Live The Podcast - The F*ck ups that led to Triumphs

Anu Adegbola
  • 5.0 (10)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

On PPC Live The Podcast (formerly the PPCChat Roundup podcast), we shall be talking to guest who will share their f*ck ups that led to triumphs. From client selection fails to adding the wrong bids to setting Auto Apply Recommendations and everything in between. We shall share what the failure was and how we fully recovered, and set ourselves up for future success. 

  1. EP359 - Misreported ROAS, Account Structure Chaos & AI Mistakes ft Maddie Lightening

    5D AGO

    EP359 - Misreported ROAS, Account Structure Chaos & AI Mistakes ft Maddie Lightening

    In this episode, Maddie Lightening shares candid stories about common pitfalls in paid media management, the importance of leveraging AI wisely, and how to approach mistakes with a growth mindset. Discover practical advice on account structuring, controlling CPCs, and embracing experimentation to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of PPC. Main Topics Covered: The significance of proper account currency configuration and how currency conversion errors can impact reportingThe risks and lessons learned from outdated account structures, especially in Google AdsHow to implement CPC caps within bid strategies to regain control without performance lossThe importance of not just adopting AI but using it strategically and with purposeThe value of a "FAFO" mindset—try, fail, learn, and move forward in paid mediaTips for managing mistakes seamlessly, including transparency with clients and teamKey insights into seasonality and account adjustments during peak periodsCreative ways to break the rules with AI, like running targeted campaigns with unique placementsThe role of curiosity in PPC success — always testing and asking "what if?" Timestamps:00:00 - Introducing Maddie Lightening and her PPC background00:52 - Maddie’s journey to Head of Paid Media at Hallam02:17 - Maddie’s fun fact: from banana bread to F1 autographing03:40 - Navigating industry interests outside PPC04:36 - Common mistake: Currency conversion errors and reporting impact06:12 - Lessons from account structure mistakes inherited from other agencies07:52 - Handling performance drops without panic09:23 - When to restructure campaigns and assessing seasonal impacts11:23 - What could have been done differently during account restructuring12:44 - Client reactions to structural changes: fear vs. frustration14:23 - Managing CPC increases and external factors influencing CPCs18:38 - Implementing CPC caps in bid strategies for better control21:12 - Breaking rules: Running targeted campaigns with AI and Google restrictions22:30 - Advice for professionals discovering account mistakes23:35 - The importance of accountability and giving yourself grace25:22 - Maddie’s PPC value: FAFO — f**k around and find out26:26 - Curiosity and testing as fundamental PPC skills27:32 - Overcoming fear of AI bans in agencies28:41 - Integrating AI into routine work—don’t ban it, use it effectively30:07 - Avoiding common AI pitfalls: Providing enough context and data32:02 - The dangers of complete AI bans and staying adaptable33:55 - Future-proofing PPC strategies with AI and technology understanding36:39 - Maddie’s fun movie title: “Rush” – PPC’s fast-paced nature38:16 - Connect with Maddie on LinkedIn for more insights Resources & Links: ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn - Maddie Lightening⁠⁠⁠⁠PPC Live Event Schedule⁠ Join us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Slack⁠⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    43 min
  2. EP358 - Quick Wins, Quick Mess ft Hannah Zora Strong

    APR 1

    EP358 - Quick Wins, Quick Mess ft Hannah Zora Strong

    Hannah Zora Strong shares her 14-year journey in PPC, including a memorable mistake involving bid strategies that caused a client crisis. She discusses lessons learned, the importance of communication, and tips for avoiding common PPC pitfalls, especially in the context of AI tools. Key topics: PPC bid strategy mistakesClient communication and transparencyImpact of AI tools on PPC management Sound bites: "My cost per conversion shot up from 20p to 2 pounds""Most things in PPC are fixable""Search expansion can bring fringe terms, be cautious" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PPC and Guest Background 04:16 The F-Up Story: A Lesson in PPC Management 09:33 Understanding Client Communication and Expectations 15:06 Reflections on Management and Team Dynamics 18:15 The Importance of Team Support 22:39 Navigating Mistakes in PPC 24:25 Learning from Past Errors 25:17 Common Mistakes in PPC Management 32:04 The Role of AI in PPC 35:06 Future of PPC and AI Integration 43:28 Outro.mp3 Hannah Zora Strong on LinkedIn Adworld Conference Search and Stuff

    44 min
  3. EP357 - Schedule It or Regret It ft Chloe Stockton

    MAR 25

    EP357 - Schedule It or Regret It ft Chloe Stockton

    Chloe Stockton shares her journey in paid search, a major mistake during Black Friday 2019, and lessons learned about automation, AI, and account management. This episode offers practical advice for PPC professionals to avoid common pitfalls and improve strategies. Topics: Common PPC mistakes and how to avoid themThe importance of scheduling and labeling in campaignsUsing AI and automation effectively in PPCHandling client communication and transparencyLessons learned from a Black Friday campaign mishap Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PPC Live Podcast 03:47 Chloe's Journey in Paid Search 06:51 The Cyber Monday Mistake 09:36 Client Communication and Accountability 12:21 Lessons Learned and Process Improvements 15:08 Support from Management and Moving Forward 17:16 Embracing Mistakes in PPC Management 20:18 Common Client Mistakes and Quick Wins 25:27 Leveraging AI in PPC Strategies 30:05 The Evolution of PPC: From Manual to Automated 31:29 The Future of PPC: Insights and Reflections 34:37 Outro.mp3 Go to PPC Live for ⁠⁠early bird ticket sale⁠⁠ Join us on ⁠⁠⁠Slack⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    35 min
  4. EP356 - From Costly Mistake to Competitive Advantage ft Heidi Sturrock

    MAR 18

    EP356 - From Costly Mistake to Competitive Advantage ft Heidi Sturrock

    Join Anu and Heidi Sturrock, a seasoned paid search expert with 24 years of experience, as she shares invaluable lessons from her career, including a major mistake with broad match campaigns, the evolution of search engines, and the role of AI in PPC. This episode offers practical insights for marketers looking to master performance marketing and navigate industry changes. Key topics The evolution of search engines from Yahoo to GoogleA major mistake with broad match campaigns and its silver liningThe role of quality and trust in search engine successHow to handle and learn from campaign mistakesThe impact of AI and automation in PPC strategies Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility 03:35 Heidi's Fun Fact: From 1999 to Google Dominance 08:11 The Mistake: Broad Match Campaign Gone Wrong 10:11 The Silver Lining: Turning Mistakes into Opportunities 12:27 Diligence in Campaign Setup and Negative Keywords 17:06 Controlling Spend and Managing Disgruntled Customers 19:08 Lessons from Campaign Launch on a Friday 24:27 Ownership and Transparency in Mistakes 27:46 Adapting to Industry Changes and Embracing AI 30:12 Common Mistakes in Account Audits 36:11 The Biggest Mistake in AI Adoption 38:21 Mastering AI Max for Search and Campaign Setup 41:28 Closing Remarks and Future Events 49:02 Outro.mp3 Resources: Heidi Sturrock on LinkedIn - HeidiSturrock.com - SMX Advanced 2026 PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Go to PPC Live for ⁠early bird ticket sale⁠ Join us on ⁠⁠Slack⁠⁠ Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠

    49 min
  5. EP355 - Sneaky Google Ads Settings & Tanked Campaigns ft Chloe Varnfield

    MAR 11

    EP355 - Sneaky Google Ads Settings & Tanked Campaigns ft Chloe Varnfield

    In this engaging interview, Chloe Varnfield shares her journey in digital marketing, her experiences with mistakes and lessons learned, and insights into managing client relationships and the evolving AI landscape. Perfect for marketers looking to grow and learn from real-world scenarios. Key topics Common PPC mistakes and how to avoid themThe importance of default settings and account auditsManaging client relationships during campaign crisesThe impact of AI on digital marketing strategiesLessons learned from real-world marketing errors Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 06:20 Mistakes in Digital Marketing: Learning from F-ups 14:02 Navigating Campaign Challenges and Client Communication 20:29 Building a Toolkit for Success 23:13 The Importance of Community and Support 26:04 Learning from Mistakes in Marketing 29:37 Common Pitfalls in Account Management 33:08 Navigating the AI Revolution in Marketing 34:47 Celebrating Successes and Personal Growth 40:57 Outro.mp3 Follow Chloe on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Go to PPC Live for early bird ticket sale Join us on ⁠Slack⁠ Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠

    41 min
  6. EP354 - The Leads Were There… So What Went Wrong? ft Danny Gavin

    MAR 4

    EP354 - The Leads Were There… So What Went Wrong? ft Danny Gavin

    In this engaging interview, digital marketing expert Danny Gavin shares valuable insights on PPC, lead generation, handling mistakes, and the evolving role of AI in marketing. Discover practical lessons from real-world experiences, including how honesty, communication, and technology checks can save campaigns and client relationships. Takeaways Honesty and transparency are crucial when addressing mistakes.Regular communication and reporting can prevent misunderstandings.Implementing backup systems like lead data spreadsheets enhances visibility.AI can assist in analyzing phone call quality and lead qualification.Always double-check inputs and outputs when using AI tools. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Danny Gavin and His Background 06:32 The Importance of Communication in Client Relationships 11:34 Learning from Mistakes: A Case Study in PPC 16:14 Implementing Solutions and Preventing Future Issues 19:40 The Importance of Communication in Client Relationships 21:12 Navigating Client Relationships After Challenges 25:33 Key Mistakes in Lead Generation Strategies 29:32 Leveraging AI in Lead Generation 32:01 Cautions and Best Practices for Using AI 35:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections on the Journey 41:27 Outro.mp3 Danny Gavin on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us for PPC Live Online on Feb 18th Join us on Slack Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠

    42 min
  7. EP353 - When Automation Took Over: How Opteo Rethought PPC

    FEB 25

    EP353 - When Automation Took Over: How Opteo Rethought PPC

    In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast , Anu Adegbola hosts Adam Dale and Shaquira Jeyasingh from Opteo, discussing the evolution of digital marketing tools, the impact of AI on Google Ads management, and the importance of customer engagement. They share insights on the challenges faced during the rebuilding of the Opteo platform, common mistakes in PPC management, and the future of AI in marketing. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency, adaptability, and understanding customer needs in a rapidly changing landscape. Takeaways AI has fundamentally changed the role of Google Ads managers.Opteo has undergone a significant rebuild to adapt to market changes.Customer transparency is crucial during periods of change.Knee-jerk reactions to new tools can hinder effective marketing strategies.Engaging with customers directly can provide valuable insights.The importance of maintaining fundamental knowledge in PPC management.Automation tools should complement, not replace, human oversight.Understanding the evolving landscape of digital marketing is essential.The future of AI in marketing presents both opportunities and challenges.Building a multi-channel approach is key for modern marketing tools. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PPC Live and Opteo 06:35 Fun Facts and Personal Insights 11:25 The Impact of AI on Google Ads Management 16:04 Navigating Changes in Automation and User Trust 21:10 Rebuilding the Platform: Challenges and Solutions 24:37 The Importance of a Holistic Business View 26:24 Customer Retention and Transparency During Change 28:48 Understanding Customer Sentiment and Communication 30:34 Key Takeaways from the Journey of Change 34:41 Common Mistakes in PPC Management 37:28 The Future of AI in PPC Advertising 41:06 Fun Reflections on PPC Careers 48:40 Outro.mp3 Find Opteo on LinkedIn Early Access to revamped Opteo platform PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us for PPC Live Online on Apr 29th Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whatsapp group⁠⁠⁠ Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠

    49 min
  8. EP352 - When Losing Big Is Winning Bigger ft. Emina Demiri

    FEB 18

    EP352 - When Losing Big Is Winning Bigger ft. Emina Demiri

    In this episode of PPC Live, Anu Adegbola interviews Emina Demiri Watson, who shares her journey in digital marketing, including the challenges of firing a major client and the lessons learned from that experience. They discuss the importance of maintaining a balanced client portfolio, recognizing red flags in client relationships, and the impact of market conditions on agency performance. Emina emphasizes the need for a proactive approach in digital marketing and the strategic use of AI tools. The conversation concludes with insights on common mistakes in the industry and the value of staying true to company values. Takeaways Firing a major client can be a difficult but necessary decision.Maintaining a balanced client portfolio is crucial to avoid concentration risks.Recognizing red flags in client relationships is essential for agency health.Prioritizing company culture and employee happiness can lead to better outcomes.Tracking client performance and market conditions is vital for success.Proactive communication with clients can prevent misunderstandings.AI tools should be used strategically, not blindly.Common mistakes in digital marketing include poor targeting and lack of negative keywords.Understanding market dynamics is key to adapting strategies.Values should guide decision-making in challenging situations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fun Facts 05:36 The Decision to Fire a Client 10:09 Recognizing Mistakes in Client Relationships 13:02 Identifying Red Flags in Client Relationships 17:05 Turning Around After a Major Client Loss 20:46 Navigating Market Challenges 26:11 Final Takeaways and Advice 27:07 Common Mistakes in Digital Marketing 31:48 AI in Digital Marketing: Mistakes and Misconceptions 37:13 Conclusion and Future Engagements 46:36 Outro.mp3 Find Emina on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us for PPC Live Online on Apr 29th Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Whatsapp group⁠⁠ Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠

    47 min
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

On PPC Live The Podcast (formerly the PPCChat Roundup podcast), we shall be talking to guest who will share their f*ck ups that led to triumphs. From client selection fails to adding the wrong bids to setting Auto Apply Recommendations and everything in between. We shall share what the failure was and how we fully recovered, and set ourselves up for future success. 

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