How a 20-Year Ad Pro Uses AI (And Where It Falls Short) with Marco Perugini

Marco Perugini has spent almost 20 years in advertising and branding. He now uses AI to move faster, but he's clear about where it doesn't work yet. In this episode, he shares his four-step process, the AI tools he uses, and why human connection is still the part AI can't do. In this episode of AI Powered Career Edge, Yousuf talks with Marco Perugini, a creative director who helps brands and businesses connect with consumers. Marco started in a small ad house in Connecticut. He went on to Zimmerman Advertising, one of the largest agencies in the world, then boutique agencies, then a brand-side role as Creative Director at West Marine. Today he works for himself. What makes Marco's view useful is that he is honest about both sides. He uses AI every week, and he can tell you exactly where it helps and where it doesn't. Marco's career path, from small ad house to global agency to going out on his own His four-step process: discovery, aligned ideation, launch and listen, and optimize How he uses AI at the start of a project to research fast and pressure test ideas How a job that took 4 to 5 hours now takes 1 to 2 How he put together a full pitch in one week, with the creative done in about 3 days Why AI still struggles to find the human connection inside a strategy Why "good is still good", and the standard hasn't changed His advice for marketers: use AI where you already have mastery Key takeaway: AI should support your skills, not replace them. Use it to move faster in the areas you already know well. About the guest: Marco Perugini is a creative director with almost 20 years in advertising and branding. His approach is "from brain power to brand power." Subscribe to AI Powered Career Edge so you don't miss the next conversation.