Panel Discussion: AI Unscripted

Artificial Intelligence is no longer a distant concept—it’s here, reshaping the way we work, create, and connect in the advertising world. But with innovation comes uncertainty, and our industry is still figuring out how to strike the right balance between the efficiency of automation and the irreplaceable value of human creativity.

That’s where this panel comes in.

We have assembled a dynamic group of voices for a panel discussion focused on demystifying AI and highlighting its positive, practical role in advertising and marketing. Our panelists will share:

• Real-world tools, strategies, and prompts that help marketers and creatives use AI to improve everyday workflows
• Success stories that show how AI can enhance—not replace—the human element
• Smart, nuanced perspectives on the ethical and professional questions AI raises in our field

Attendees can expect an open, honest discussion about the future of our work and walk away with actionable takeaways you can use immediately.

Networking 11:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Panel Discussion 12 – 1 p.m.

As Director of Digital Marketing, Katrina Reger is Blue Compass' go-to for all things Google, AI and SEO. Her areas of expertise include AI, SEO, SEM, Google Analytics 4, Google Tag Manager, digital marketing strategies, search algorithm updates and more. If there’s a new digital marketing trend, Katrina is on top of it and ready to break it down for audiences across the world.

Throughout her decade at Blue Compass, she’s flown overseas to train international clients on SEO best practices and has spoken at numerous national events, while also being a regular presenter at our U of Blue and Compass Con digital marketing workshops in Iowa. She maintains inbound marketing certification through HubSpot and is Google Ads certified in her continued efforts to learn and grow as a digital expert and trusted SEO speaker.

Rachel Holmes is an AI Strategist at Zirous, guiding organizations in applying AI to deliver practical, business-aligned outcomes. She advises clients, champions enablement, and leads cross-functional workshops. A frequent speaker on generative AI, Rachel recently earned a Master’s in Professional Communication from Iowa State University, where she built custom AI chatbots to streamline collaboration. She brings a decade of B2B communications and strategy experience to connect business goals with technical delivery.

Jeroen Corver is the Vice President of Digital Strategy at Townsquare Ignite, the digital advertising arm of Townsquare Media—a leading media, entertainment, and marketing company serving 74 local markets across the United States. Townsquare Ignite delivers performance-driven advertising solutions for local and regional businesses, and our agency partners. Townsquare Media connects audiences through influential local radio, online local content, and digital ad solutions through its own programmatic trading desk.

Jeroen leads Townsquare’s digital advertising initiatives, driving the integration of artificial intelligence into digital advertising strategies for our active clients. With a forward-thinking approach to technology and a deep understanding of the evolving digital landscape, Jeroen is helping shape the future of local advertising through the power of AI.

Andy Erickson
Marketing Consultant

Host or Publisher AAF of Des Moines