17 Marketing Numbers You Need for 2026

Our reading notes on Neil Patel

• FlexJet CEO Doesn’t Believe In M&A, Should You?

  Patel draws on companies he has bought to question a blanket objection to acquisitions. The chapter beginning at 2:02 gives his argument. The hosts also discuss the operational problems a small acquisition can bring, a useful question for anyone considering buying a publication to reach its readers.

• Answer Engine Optimization: How to Improve AI Visibility

  Patel discusses writing direct answers to real questions and organizing supporting detail so readers can inspect it. The piece also makes claims about search and AI visibility. Clear formatting is something an editor can verify on a page. Citation by a particular assistant requires a separate observed answer.

• The Wells Fargo Client Retention Strategy That Actually Works

  Patel describes a bank that invited existing customers to events after their business had been won. A competing lender waited until the last minute to make an offer. The timing changes what a customer can reasonably infer about the invitation. A thank-you delivered without an immediate ask can stand on its own.