Episode #
Performance marketing is NOT an investment. THIS is.
December 20, 2023

In episode #2638, We discuss the concept of performance marketing and whether it should be considered an investment. We reference a podcast with Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky, who decided to temporarily stop performance marketing and focus on building a great product. While performance marketing may not be a long-term investment, it can still be a profitable strategy if it generates a positive return on investment. The key takeaway is to diversify marketing efforts and take advantage of profitable opportunities, regardless of whether they are considered investments or not.

 

Don’t forget to help us grow by subscribing and liking on YouTube!

 

Check out more of Eric’s content (Leveling UP YT) and Neil’s videos (Neil Patel YT

 

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

  • (00:00) Today’s topic: Performance marketing is NOT an investment. THIS is.
  • (00:53) Discussion on Airbnb CEO’s decision to stop performance marketing
  • (01:13) Paid ads are not considered an investment for most businesses
  • (02:48) All businesses are arbitrages
  • (03:49) Paid ads can still benefit a business even after stopping
  • (04:12) Diversifying marketing channels is crucial
  • (05:03) Holding both mindsets: paid ads aren’t long-term, but still an arbitrage
  • (05:16) That’s it for today! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe!

Go to https://www.marketingschool.io to learn more!

 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

 

 

Leave Some Feedback:

  • What should we talk about next? Please let us know in the comments below
  • Did you enjoy this episode? If so, please leave a short review.

 

Connect with Us: 

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover Latest Episodes

Episode
How Claude Code Can Replace Your Marketing Team
January 19, 2026

Neil and Eric break down how cloud code and AI tools are reshaping marketing teams, using real examples from go to market planning, SEO, sales outreach, and internal automation. They explain why junio...

Episode
Most New Hires Are Dead Weight Without These Two Things
January 15, 2026

In this episode, hosts Neil and Eric break down why AI fluency is becoming a non negotiable skill for marketers and operators. They discuss shrinking headcount, rising revenue per employee, the return...

Episode
The P*rnhub Email Recap Marketing Strategy
January 14, 2026

Neil and Eric break down a controversial email marketing stunt inspired by a P hub recap, debating open rates, spam risk, and long-term brand damage. The conversation expands into X versus LinkedIn fo...