Digital marketing is shifting in two big ways. First, search is no longer just about your website. As AI tools, social platforms, reviews, and online communities influence buying decisions, businesses need to think beyond traditional SEO and focus on being visible and trusted everywhere their customers look.

Second, buyer behaviour is changing. Under ongoing pressure, customers are prioritising immediate value, wellbeing, and quick rewards over long-term promises. That has major implications for loyalty schemes, offers, and how businesses build trust.

In this episode of Digitally Speaking, we explore 2 key themes vital for marketing success in 2026: Why “everything optimisation” matters, how AI-driven discovery works in simple terms, and why genuine human connection is becoming more important in an increasingly automated world. Practical, realistic advice for small businesses who want to stay visible, relevant, and competitive.

In Episode 17 of Digitally Speaking, we walk listeners through the brand new NSDesign 2026 Social Media Calendar, packed with 180 UK and Scotland-friendly awareness days to spark ideas for the year ahead.

Perfect for busy small business owners, we explore why these topical days can boost engagement, help you stay consistent, and make brainstorming posts far less painful.

We pick out some of the fun and meaningful themes throughout the year, with simple, practical examples of how different types of businesses could use them.

If you’ve ever stared at a blank social media calendar wondering what on earth to post, this episode gives you plenty to think about.

A special edition of Digitally Speaking from NSDesign. This time, our usual hosts take a back seat as a brand new Scottish AI voice – created using ElevenLabs – introduces an entirely AI-generated music act built with Suno. Every sound, every lyric, every note… made by artificial intelligence. We might be biased, but we think it’s catchier than most of what’s in the charts these days. But does it still count as music?