Reflecting on 2024: Did My Predictions Come True?

In this special recap episode, I look back at the ten big predictions I made for 2024—and rate how each one actually turned out. From continued tech layoffs to a surge in AI-driven content (and even a bold guess about a marketing conference with good food), I evaluate which predictions nailed it, which ones fizzled, and what surprised me the most. Tune in to hear the year-in-review of AI’s rise, the state of SaaS, Hollywood hits, and more!

Episode Breakdown

1. Layoffs & Tech Restructuring

• How many companies really did another round of layoffs in 2024?
• The role AI and offshoring played in driving deeper cost cuts.
• Did Apple avoid massive layoffs as predicted?

2. SaaS & AI Acquisition Frenzy

• Which big SaaS players scooped up AI startups—did smaller companies with little traction get acquired?
• Why Gong didn’t get bought by a giant (yet).
• The state of SaaS valuations in 2024—did they return to record highs?

3. AI Content Takes Center Stage

• Checking in on fully AI-generated commercials, shorts, or movies that took the internet by storm.
• The reality of AI plus human co-creation.
• How close we got to truly tear-jerking or hyper-realistic AI productions.

4. Rise of the “Head of AI” Role

• Did companies from every sector really start hiring for AI leadership roles?
• The mix of responsibilities and how quickly these roles grew in 2024.

5. Marketing Conference Food Miracle

• A lighthearted prediction that a marketing event might finally serve amazing food—did it happen?
• Listener stories and personal experiences from 2024 conferences.

6. AI-Generated Super Bowl Ads

• Which brands used AI in their creative process for the Big Game?
• How much of the final product was truly AI vs. human-driven editing?

7. AI Companions: Breakthrough or Bust?

• Analyzing the rise of AI girlfriend/boyfriend apps for companionship and mental-health support.
• Any major bans or government crackdowns on “fake companion” apps?
• Surprising ways these tools impacted real people’s lives.

8. Mr. Beast’s Next Big Venture

• Did 2024 see Mr. Beast launch a project that pushed him into billionaire territory?
• A look at how he expanded his brand or philanthropic efforts.

9. Bad Boys 4 at the Box Office

• Did Will Smith’s return pull in the predicted $600M+ globally?
• Exploring the film’s performance and reception post-controversy.

10. Influencer Retires for Politics

• Did we see a well-known social media star hang up the mic and announce a run for office?
• The blurry line between internet fame and political ambition.

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