This Is the Next BIG Shift in AI Marketing

This Is the Next BIG Shift in AI Marketing

From The Prompt by Jim Carter

March 30, 2026 · 6 min · Episode 172

About this episode

Jim Carter discusses the implications of ads being introduced to ChatGPT and what it means for AI marketing.

“Ads are coming to ChatGPT” — and on Jim’s show, that lands as more than a product update. It’s a trust shift. In this episode, Jim Carter breaks down what OpenAI is actually testing, who will see the ads, and why this move matters far beyond a little sponsored box at the bottom of a reply. Right now, the tests are limited to logged-in adults on the free tier and the ChatGPT Go plan, with ads clearly labeled “Sponsored.” OpenAI says the ads won’t change the model’s answers. Jim doesn’t just repeat that line though — he pushes into the real question: what happens when an AI assistant no longer works only for the user? Jim walks through the business logic first. OpenAI makes huge revenue, but the cost of building and running these models is still massive. Ads, in his view, are not a random side experiment. They’re a serious attempt to keep free access alive while building a more durable business. He then makes the key distinction: this is not search advertising all over again. ChatGPT is conversational, and conversation reveals intent. When someone asks for the best CRM, headphones, or project management tool, they’re not casually browsing. They’re close to a decision. That makes…

People in this episode

Host: Jim Carter

Topics covered

  • AI marketing
  • advertising
  • business strategy
  • OpenAI
  • ChatGPT
  • revenue models

Keywords

  • AI marketing
  • ChatGPT ads
  • OpenAI
  • business logic
  • advertising strategy
  • user intent
  • revenue generation

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: OpenAI

Products: ChatGPT, ChatGPT Go, CRM, headphones, project management tool

More episodes of The Prompt

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the The Prompt podcast page.