“Courage, Curiosity, and AI in Marketing” – Verena Gründel on the ELBBLICK Podcast
In the latest episode of the ELBBLICK Podcast, Verena Gründel, Director Brand & Communications and Host of DMEXCO, talks about her journey from journalism to digital marketing, the opportunities of AI in marketing, and why courage is more important than ever for companies today.
From Journalist to DMEXCO Brand Ambassador
Before taking on the role of DMEXCO Host, Verena worked as a journalist for more than 17 years, including at W&V. Curiosity was always her driving force: “I always wanted to understand what’s behind the headlines and share that knowledge in an understandable way.”
Today, she brings this mindset to the stage at DMEXCO, Europe’s leading expo for digital marketing. As Host, she curates panels, talks, and interviews, always aiming to deliver real insights. “Especially in the marketing industry, it’s important to stay close to people. Many things aren’t published in trade magazines—you only find out through personal conversations.”
AI in Marketing: More Time for Creativity, Strategies and Relationship Building
A key topic in the podcast: Artificial Intelligence in marketing. Verena shares how she uses AI in her daily work, from podcast preparation to social media. “AI helps me save time. I use it for quick research, transcript summaries, and first drafts of posts. But the personal touch must never be lost.”
She emphasizes: “AI-generated content must not be generic. If you use AI, you have to adapt it to your own voice and brand—otherwise, you blend into the crowd.”
For Verena, the true strength of this technology lies in automating repetitive tasks. “That frees up more time for what people do best: coming up with creative ideas, thinking strategically, and building relationships.”
“Be Bold, Move Forward” – Courage as a Success Factor
With the current motto “Be Bold, Move Forward,” DMEXCO encourages the industry not to stand still, especially in uncertain times. “There are many economic and geopolitical uncertainties. Those who invest now, who show courage, can pull ahead,” Verena explains in the ELBBLICK Podcast.
On DMEXCO’s stages, it’s not about celebrity status but about relevance: “Our speakers must deliver real value—regardless of how well-known they are. It’s about sharing genuine knowledge and boldly discussing new perspectives.”
Personal Insights: Hamburg, Miami, and a Wish for AI
In addition to industry topics, Verena also shares some personal insights in the podcast. She recently traveled to Miami to capture trends directly from the US. “A lot of impulses emerge there that are exciting for our community—we want to become more international.”
In Hamburg, she never misses a chance to go for a morning run around the Alster. “When I’m here, I prefer to stay near the train station—so I’m close to the venue but also near the Alster. Running at sunrise is my perfect way to start the day.”
Verena still has one wish for the future of artificial intelligence: “I dream that one day my calendar planning, travel booking, and scheduling will run automatically. It would save so much energy—there’s still huge potential there.”
AI in Marketing: Listen Now!
The full episode of the ELBBLICK Podcast, in German, with Verena, Host of DMEXCO, shows how AI in marketing is already being used in practice today, what opportunities it offers, and why a personal touch remains essential.
