A mountain top experience

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Many marketing experts focus on quick tips and catchy phrases. However, occasionally you meet someone who looks beyond tactics and considers the deeper meaning behind marketing. And that’s exactly who Mark Schaefer is.

He’s one of the world’s most respected marketing minds, the author of books like ‘Marketing Rebellion,’ ‘Known and Belonging’ to the ‘Brand.’ But more than his books, stages or accolades, what draws people to Mark is the depth behind the strategy, the humanity behind the data and the philosophy behind the marketing plan.

Recently, Mark shared a personal perspective, offering insight beyond his usual professional frameworks.

“I was standing at the top of the McKinsey tower in New York,” he writes, “after teaching some of the smartest people I’ve ever met. The view was stunning. My day was done. My ideas had landed. It was, without a doubt, a career highlight.”

However, instead of joy, Mark experienced an unexpected sense of emptiness.

“There was nothing left. Literally and figuratively, I was at the top of the mountain. And I thought… is this it?”

This was not self-pity, but honesty — a quality rarely expressed in business. While many focus on advancement, Mark asked an important question: What happens when you reach the summit and realize there is nowhere further to go?

This is a question rarely addressed by marketing professionals. Mark stands out because he is motivated not by recognition or financial gain, but by genuine curiosity.

He admits:

“I never had career goals. I never wanted to write a book. Or speak on stage. I just kept following ideas that fascinated me. I followed the questions. And somehow, opportunities kept following me.”

This perspective is refreshing in an industry focused on goals and KPIs.

Mark was among the first to recognize the significance of influencer marketing, anticipating its rise before it became widely discussed. He also predicted Content Shock, when audiences would be overwhelmed by excessive content. Rather than simply reporting trends, he defined and shaped them.

Each time his insights gained widespread attention, Mark moved forward — driven by curiosity rather than the diminishing value of the topic. While many would capitalize on a bestselling book, Mark chose to move on. As he explains, he did so to avoid becoming, in his words, “bored out of my mind.”

Despite his awards, keynote speeches, bestselling books and consulting work with companies such as Adidas, Microsoft and Pfizer, Mark has reached a stage that many successful individuals experience but seldom discuss: a sense of stillness at the peak of achievement.

When you’ve done the thing.

Reached the goal.

Ticked the boxes.

Then what?

Mark is not seeking definitive answers — but is open about the questions that arise.

This approach distinguishes him. In an industry often driven by hype, Mark Schaefer communicates with humility, depth and perspective. He reminds us that marketing is about meaning, not just metrics — and that true success involves growth and evolution.

For the first time, Mark Schaefer will visit Asia.

He will be my featured keynote speaker at SpeakersCon this year in the Philippines.

This event offers a unique opportunity to learn from someone who has reached the highest levels of success and is willing to share his genuine experiences.

Marketers, entrepreneurs, business leaders and creatives seeking new perspectives will benefit from hearing from someone who goes beyond tactics to inspire innovative thinking.

And when he arrives, I plan to greet him warmly — but with a little challenge. I’ll say:

“Now that you’ve come to the Philippines — for the first time — welcome to a beautiful mountain you’ve yet to climb. And let me assure you: you haven’t reached the top just yet, because none of us ever really do. There is still so much more to learn, to teach, to inspire — so many lives to touch, and truths to share. Once you explore this country and meet its people, you’ll see that the view from this mountain is breathtaking. And I have a feeling… you’ll want to keep coming back.”

Join Francis Kong at SpeakersCon 2026, a one-day experience designed for leaders, educators, executives and professionals who want to communicate with clarity, credibility and purpose. This is happening on Feb. 11, 2026, at SPACE, One Ayala Makati. Gain practical insights on leadership, influence and authentic communication in today’s evolving landscape. For inquiries, email us at [email protected] or send us a direct message at facebook.com/SpeakersCon. Visit www.speakerscon.ph for details.