From March 3-5, 2025, I had the privilege of attending Tealium’s Digital Velocity 2025: AI & Data on the Digital Frontier event in San Diego, CA—an electrifying gathering of industry leaders, data experts, and innovators pushing the boundaries of customer data. This wasn’t just another conference; it was a front-row seat to the future of AI-driven strategies, real-time engagement, and privacy-first data solutions.
A Hub of Groundbreaking Ideas
DV 2025 brought together the brightest minds to explore how customer data is evolving in an AI-powered, privacy-conscious world. The sessions were packed with forward-thinking strategies, blending cutting-edge tech with real-world applications. Whether you’re a marketer, data geek, or business leader, there was something to spark inspiration.
Standout Sessions That Stole the Show
Here’s a taste of the sessions that left the crowd buzzing:
- The Digital Advertiser’s Playbook
Josh Wolf (Tealium) and Gabe Richman (The Trade Desk) teamed up to tackle the modern advertiser’s dilemma: boosting performance and return on ad spend (ROAS) amidst shrinking cookies and tightening regulations. Their playbook? Smart, adaptable campaigns that thrive in a restrictive landscape. If you’re in digital ads, this was a wake-up call to rethink your approach.
- Tealium and AI: Revolutionizing Real-Time Data
This session was a deep dive into Tealium’s AI superpowers—think real-time data turned into instant, actionable insights. From enhancing customer experiences to streamlining operations, the speakers showcased how AI automation within Tealium’s platform is making businesses smarter, faster, and more connected. It’s not just data; it’s data with a purpose.
- Leveraging Customer Data for AI-Driven Value & Adoption
Sol Rashidi, a rockstar in data and digital transformation, broke down how organizations can turn customer data into fuel for AI adoption. Her session was a masterclass in maximizing business value—proving that the right data strategy can be a competitive edge in today’s market.
- Navigating Governance and Consent in Siloed Marketing Environments
I had the honor of joining this panel alongside experts from Hyatt and DirecTV, where we tackled the messy world of data governance and consent. We fielded questions like:
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- What are the best practices for centralizing consent management?
- How do brands map customer identities while staying compliant with CPRA and GDPR?
- How can brands future-proof their governance strategies?
- What’s next for data governance—will AI and automation save the day?
Why It Mattered
What set Digital Velocity 2025 apart was its laser focus on the now and the next. AI isn’t just a buzzword here—it’s a tool reshaping how we engage customers in real time while keeping privacy front and center. The event hammered home a critical truth: businesses that harness customer data effectively today will lead tomorrow. Adding to this momentum, InfoTrust stands out as a key partner, offering expert support for Tealium’s product architecture and implementation—from the TiQ Tag Management System (TMS) and EventStream server-side solution to the AudienceStream Customer Data Platform (CDP)—guiding businesses seamlessly from design to deployment.
