As the industry continues to evolve at a relentless pace, moments to step back, compare notes and learn from one another have never been more valuable. That’s exactly what the 2026 AMIN Worldwide Integrated Conference-hosted in Pittsburgh by Gatesman-is designed to deliver. Bringing together independent agencies for candid conversations about what’s working, what’s not and what’s next, we sat down with Gatesman CEO John Gatesman, who also serves on the Board of Directors, to get his perspective on this year’s “Grit No Quit” theme. We learned what makes it especially timely and why this gathering is such a powerful reminder that progress happens when we show up, lean in and prove we were here. Here’s what he had to say.

  1. In your words, what is this year’s AMIN integrated conference really about? 

At its core, this conference is about bringing independent agencies together to share what’s actually happening in our business right now. The good, bad and everything in between. We learn from each other, pressure-test ideas and walk away better equipped to serve our clients. 

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  1. What makes this theme especially relevant right now for agencies?

Because this is a moment that’s demanding more from all of us. The pace of change, speed to market, the pressure to perform and the evolution of our industry takes resilience, adaptability and a willingness to keep pushing forward. “Grit No Quit” is about embracing that challenge and turning it into opportunity.

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  1. What are you personally most excited to learn or hear?

I’m most interested in how other agencies are actually applying things like AI, analytics and integration, not just talking about it. Everyone’s figuring this out in real time and the best part of AMIN is people are willing to share what’s working and what’s not honestly and openly.

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  1. What’s one moment or session you’re especially looking forward to?

Aside from our great lineup of speakers, it would be the discipline breakouts, without a doubt. That’s where you get the real conversations with people being candid about challenges, sharing ideas and pushing each other to think differently. It’s a great environment to be vulnerable and learn from each other.

 

  1. If you had to sum up what attendees will take away in one sentence, what would it be?

You’ll leave with practical ideas you can actually use, a fresh perspective on where things are headed and the realization that we all have allies to help us navigate this change together.

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About Gatesman:

With offices in Pittsburgh and Chicago, Gatesman offers expertise in strategy/branding, advertising, public relations, social media, digital and analytics. Gatesman is a partner in AMIN Worldwide, an alliance of over 50 independent marketing agencies, IPREX, a global communications network and most recently the Ad Age Small Agency Network. Gatesman is also proud to be recognized as one of Ad Age’s Best Places to Work, reflecting its commitment to a strong, people-first culture. 

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