The Big 2026 Quiz: Random Trivia, Future Major Headlines, and Defining Moments | Behind the Numbers

Behind the Numbers: an EMARKETER Podcast · with Suzy Davidkhanian, Paul Verna, Blake Droesch · January 2, 2026 · 33 min

Summary

This episode dives into future trends, quizzing panelists on major headlines and defining moments anticipated in 2026. It explores the evolving role of AI agents in shopping, the future of platforms like YouTube, and shifts in consumer behavior. Ecommerce operators will gain insights into preparing for upcoming technological and market changes.

Key takeaways

• AI agents are expected to significantly influence shopper behavior; businesses should strategize now on integrating AI into their customer journey to stay competitive.
• YouTube's evolution will impact content strategies and advertising; ecommerce brands should monitor platform changes to adapt their video marketing and partnerships.
• Future consumer behavior will be heavily shaped by AI adoption and evolving digital interactions; understanding these shifts is crucial for personalized marketing and brand engagement.
• Anticipate major shifts in digital advertising regulations and platform strategies, necessitating agile marketing plans and a focus on data privacy compliance.
• The episode hints at emerging MarTech tools and platforms; ecommerce businesses should stay informed to leverage new technologies for improved marketing efficiency and customer reach.

Themes

Topics covered

Episode description

On today’s special podcast episode, we discuss the major headlines we expect to see and some significant milestones in the coming year—and bundle it all into a giant quiz. What happens to YouTube in 2026? What will shoppers start letting AI agents do for them? And much, much more. Join Senior Director of Podcasts and host Marcus Johnson, along with Vice Presidents of Content Suzy Davidkhanian and Paul Verna, and Senior Analyst Blake Droesch. Listen everywhere, and watch on YouTube and Spotify. Subscribe to EMARKETER's newsletters. Go to: https://www.emarketer.com/newsletters Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/ For sponsorship opportunities contact us: advertising@emarketer.com For more information visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/ Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com For a transcript of this episode click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-big-2026-quiz-random-trivia-future-major-headlines-defining-moments-behind-numbers © 2026 EMARKETER

Related episodes

• Upsells & Cross-Sells: Increase Revenue Through AOV Optimisation By Nick Trueman— Winning With Shopify Podcast: Ecommerce Growth for Shopify Store Owners
• 329: 3 Things You Must Know Before You Take a Business Loan— The Ecommerce Roadmap
• Get Found in ChatGPT and Claude, Not Just Google: The Content-Led Growth Playbook— eCommerce Fastlane
• #757 -Inside A 9-Figure K-Beauty Brand— Serious Sellers Podcast
• #1085: The five biggest developments in Amazon reselling right now— Silent Sales Machine Radio
• Hint's Refreshed Positioning Taps Into Hydration as a Cultural Movement— Total Retail Talks

Frequently asked about this episode

What does this episode say about ai & automation?

AI agents are expected to significantly influence shopper behavior; businesses should strategize now on integrating AI into their customer journey to stay competitive.

What does this episode say about dtc strategy?

YouTube's evolution will impact content strategies and advertising; ecommerce brands should monitor platform changes to adapt their video marketing and partnerships.

What does this episode say about conversion & cro?

Future consumer behavior will be heavily shaped by AI adoption and evolving digital interactions; understanding these shifts is crucial for personalized marketing and brand engagement.

What does this episode say about brand & content?

Anticipate major shifts in digital advertising regulations and platform strategies, necessitating agile marketing plans and a focus on data privacy compliance.

What does this episode say about ai & automation?

The episode hints at emerging MarTech tools and platforms; ecommerce businesses should stay informed to leverage new technologies for improved marketing efficiency and customer reach.

Listen

Listen on Apple PodcastsShow website