In this episode of WunderCast, VP of Content, Data & AI Tim Glomb sits down with Chris Marriott, President and Founder of Email Connect and a recognized authority in messaging, RFPs, and MarTech strategy. They discuss the rise of “invisible AI” and how behind-the-scenes automation is reshaping segmentation, analytics, and efficiency. Chris shares why not every brand needs to run an RFP, and how adding the right partner can sometimes be more valuable than overhauling an entire ESP or CDP. They also dive into budgeting for the “unknown,” making the case for setting aside resources to experiment with emerging categories and new tools. The conversation includes real-world examples of operational AI at scale, including how Wunderkind has saved thousands of hours with hundreds of AI agents. Chris explains how new categories are born, why experimentation is a must in 2026 planning, and how CMOs and CFOs can prepare for the next wave of marketing innovation. If you want insider advice on navigating RFPs, AI, and the evolving MarTech stack, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.