Podcasts about Customer engagement

How to Effectively Market High-Value Offers in a Long Sales CycleEpisode Summary:In this episode, Donna Peterson, President of World Innovators, shares practical strategies for marketing offers with longer decision timelines and higher price points.Whether you're promoting an executive education program, industrial equipment, or a multi-thousand-dollar event registration, Donna explains why relationship-building across multiple touchpoints is essential. The conversation focuses on how to educate prospects in advance, use consistent messaging across email, postal, banner, and phone outreach, and apply AI tools like ChatGPT and Descript to support your efforts.This episode is for leaders who want to create thoughtful campaigns that align with how people actually buy.“Give people the information they're searching for before they ask — that's how you earn the meeting and build long-term trust.” – Donna PetersonWhat You'll Learn:Why long sales cycles require an education-first approachHow to structure a multi-channel campaign that builds familiarity and trustWays to use AI tools to increase consistency and save timeThe value of including traditional channels like postal and phoneWhy helpful, relevant messaging leads to stronger engagementEpisode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction: Understanding long sales cycles00:52 – Clarifying buyer needs and timing01:42 – Marketing strategies that align with how people buy02:32 – Using AI to support marketing and sales efforts04:02 – Leading with education to guide prospects05:38 – Benefits of a multi-channel strategy08:49 – Importance of timing and thoughtful follow-up11:10 – How traditional channels support digital outreach17:36 – Using personal touches to deepen relationships23:34 – Closing thoughts: Focus on relevance and consistencyWant to Discuss Your Approach?If you'd like to talk about your specific offer and what we have seen work, schedule a Complementary 30 minute call with Donna Peterson -https://meetings.hubspot.com/dpeterson/time-to-talk

In this episode, in collaboration with the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL), Cristina Romero of Loyra Abogados, breaks down the complex, often-overlooked, world of fundraising in regulated iGaming markets.With nearly 15 years of experience advising on cross-border gaming finance and acquisitions, she explains why fresh capital is essential for driving innovation, market entry and long-term sustainability in an increasingly capital-intensive industry.From Spain and Sweden to Brazil and beyond, Cristina explores the investment landscape in both mature and emerging iGaming jurisdictions. She categorises the three dominant investor profiles, generalist private equity, gambling-savvy venture firms, and strategic industry players, unpacking what each seeks in a high-risk, high-reward environment.In the final segment, the conversation turns to the evolving relationship between traditional regulated operators and disruptive ‘adjacent' tech firms in Web3, blockchain and AI-powered marketing. Cristina explains how unregulated innovators are setting new benchmarks for speed and agility, often providing vital tools that solve operational pain points for legacy brands.To read more on the topic discussed in today's episode, click on the following link:- https://www.imgl.org/publications/imgl-magazine-volume-3-no-1/raising-capital-in-regulated-gambling-and-betting-markets/Host: Ted MenmuirGuest: Cristina RomeroProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

Discover how to turn decades of data into a competitive edge, build lasting customer relationships beyond the first click, and apply AI in ways that truly drive impact. Joining us is Vineet Mahajan, CTO of US News & World Report, who shares how he's led the 90-year-old brand through a sweeping digital transformation. From rearchitecting infrastructure to deploying semantic search, generative AI, and agentic tools, Vineet explains how his team is reimagining what a legacy institution can become—and what every tech leader can take from that journey.Key Moments:00:00 Meet Vineet Mahajan, CTO of US News & World Report04:45 How to Unlock the True Value of Your Data09:55 Why First-Party Data Is Key to Building Customer Relationships14:32 What Is Semantic Search and How Can Generative AI Improve UX?18:39 How to Overcome Data Cleaning and Structuring Challenges21:18 How to Evaluate Emerging Tech Trends (Like Agentic AI)25:43 How to Lead Change: Data Governance and Digital Transformation32:38 What's Next for US News & World Report and the Future of AI-Driven Strategy -- Brightspot is the leading content management platform built for modern teams. Your content lifecycle - from ideation to archival - moves faster, handling any volume, variety, or velocity with ease. Unlike legacy platforms that demand heavy dev work and struggle with scale, Brightspot is user-friendly, endlessly customizable, and enterprise-ready. Think dynamic, modern experiences, shipped in minutes—not months. Trusted by some of the world's leading tech organizations, Brightspot reduces total cost of ownership, boosts productivity, and gives you the governance, security, and performance your teams need. Visit brightspot.com/ITVisionaries to learn more.---This episode was produced by the team at Mission.org and brought to you by Brightspot.

What if you could scale meaningful relationships—without sacrificing authenticity? In this second part of my conversation with Patrick McCullough, President of Hallmark Business Connections, we talk about how B2B companies can use tools like AI and ChatGPT to enhance personalization without losing the heart of what matters: trust, care, and connection.Patrick shares how companies are balancing automation with empathy and gives practical advice for leaders who want to deepen relationships with customers, employees, and partners—even in fast-paced or high-volume environments.We also explore what makes Hallmark's approach so unique: they don't just help brands say the right things—they help them mean it. If you're wondering how to bring more purpose and humanity into your day-to-day business practices, this episode is for you.

Send us a textKathleen Lord shares a rare blend of personal grit and professional insight in this dynamic episode recorded live at Pax8 Beyond 2025. From her early passion for equestrian sports to her executive leadership at Zensai, we explore how personal connection, smart systems, and human-centric tech drive real change.Kathleen dives into the realities of horse training, animal instincts, and performance ethics before pivoting into Zensai's mission: helping MSPs deliver post-sale value with ease. Her team's LMS, deeply integrated with Microsoft Teams, offers an elegant solution to a messy problem — keeping end-users engaged and trained without draining MSP resources.We also unpack how AI is reshaping sales funnels and why human connection still matters most — whether in the saddle or the boardroom. 

In this episode of Builders Wanted, we are joined by Deepak Singh, Vice President of Developer Agents and Experiences at AWS, and Inbal Shani, Chief Product Officer and Head of R&D at Twilio. They discuss what it means to build with AI, the evolution of developer tools, and how they are assisting customers in leveraging AI for customer engagement and innovation. The conversation covers the importance of curiosity, adaptability, and trust in this new era of AI-powered development.-------------------Key Takeaways:Developers need to be curious and adaptable to thrive in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.Successful AI implementation relies on building trust, simplifying processes, and focusing on customer outcomes.Enabling experimentation while managing risk helps organizations fully leverage the potential of AI.-------------------“It is very easy for a dev team or a product team to say, ah, this is the best way of doing something and we are going to follow this through wherever we want to. Instead of working with customers to understand, do you even care? I think with AI it's very important to take constraints away.  So if you combine listening to customers and unconstraining your thinking, you can accomplish a lot.” – Deepak Singh“  When you're using AI, you need to understand that using a model, training a model, having the data, having a feedback loop, all of that is not a magical thing that just happens by itself. It requires investment and you need to be serious about it. When looking to take AI into production, you need to understand what is the complexity of the problem you're trying to solve, and how to deploy the right AI solution to really solve that problem versus swinging by.” – Inbal Shani-------------------Episode Timestamps:‍*(02:35) - What it means to be a builder and the hardest part about building tools ‍*(10:50) - The most exciting shift happening in the developer ecosystem‍*(21:17) - How to manage risk with the pace of innovation ‍*(26:15) - What people underestimate about building AI products at scale ‍*(40:57) - A recent signal that excites Deepak and Inbal about the future ‍*(43:52) - Quick hits-------------------Links:Connect with Deepak on LinkedInConnect with Inbal on LinkedInConnect with Kailey on LinkedInLearn more about Caspian Studios-------------------SponsorBuilders Wanted is brought to you by Twilio – the Customer Engagement Platform that helps builders turn real-time data into meaningful customer experiences. More than 320,000 businesses trust Twilio to transform signals into connections—and connections into revenue. Ready to build what's next? Learn more at twilio.com.

Meeting Customers Where They Want  Shep interviews Dave Baxter, CEO of Solutions by Text. He discusses how text messaging has evolved into an essential tool for customer communication that improves the customer experience.   This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more:    How has text messaging evolved as a preferred channel for customer communication for customers?  Why do customers prefer receiving communications from businesses via mobile devices?  What role does trust play when a customer provides their mobile number to a business?  How can businesses avoid abusing the privilege of texting their customers?  What impact does timely and relevant text communication have on customer loyalty?  Top Takeaways:    Texting is fast and direct, and people are already glued to their phones for hours each day. 95% of texts are opened and read within five minutes of being received, making it one of the most preferred method of communication for customers.   Customers now have more choices than ever, from the products they want to buy to the brands they want to do business with. If a company doesn't meet them on their terms, they are likely to simply take their business elsewhere. Giving customers what they want, the way they want it, is the best way to earn their loyalty.  When a customer gives you their phone number,  it is a sign of trust. For some people, a phone number is almost as personal as their home address or, in some cases, even their social security number. When that trust is abused by spamming irrelevant messages, customers can easily block a business… forever!     Texting has evolved over the years. It's no longer just plain words in a message. Rich Communication Services (RCS) now allows images, video, branded messages, and even interactive options.   Text messaging can help answer questions and solve problems more quickly than making a call or sending an email. Texting provides speed and accuracy. Depending on the interaction, it can also provide a level of anonymity and comfort to customers who may not feel comfortable talking on the phone.  Building communication around customers' preferences helps businesses get their message across effectively and quickly. But remember, the customer will always win. With so many choices and tools, customers have the final say in how they do business. Be mindful of what you text, how often, etc. Don't abuse the customer's trust in you.    Plus, Shep and Dave discuss why Millennials and Gen Z are willing to leave brands that don't offer text communication. Tune in!  Quote:   "Businesses are met with the challenge to send messages to their customers where they want to be met. 95% of text messages are open and read in under 5 minutes while only 22% of emails are actually ever read."    About:    Dave Baxter is the CEO of Solutions by Text, a company that helps businesses from the payment and financial space communicate with customers in a reliable, effective, and compliant way.   Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and host of Amazing Business Radio.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Casual Cattle Conversations, host Shaye Koester-Wanner reconnects with Casey Fanta, seedstock manager at Wulf Cattle, to explore how the beef industry is evolving—especially when it comes to online bull sales. Casey shares how COVID-19 accelerated their transition to digital auctions, the value of customer relationships, and how the beef quality landscape has changed over the years. From open houses to impulse buying, you'll get a deep look at the pros, cons, and practicalities of selling bulls online. ⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Reconnecting and Industry Insights 01:51 – The Evolution of Beef Quality 03:56 – Transitioning to Online Bull Sales 07:12 – Customer Engagement in the Digital Age 10:31 – Balancing Tradition and Innovation 14:14 – Adapting to Online Sales 18:20 – Customer Relationships and New Clientele 21:07 – Reflections on the Beef Industry Journey Key Takeaways: How online sales reduce impulse buying The critical role of communication in bull marketing Wulf Cattle's approach to customer education and long-term relationships Beef quality trends and industry shifts over the decades Episode Resources Noble Research: https://bit.ly/3DD7uG0 Wulf Cattle: https://bit.ly/3I8Yri4 Cattle Marketing Series: https://www.casualcattleconversations.com/sell-smarter Pluck: https://eatpluck.com/?ref=SHAYEWANNER 

The hosts welcomed Patrick Mouwen, a Netherlands-based solution architect with 15+ years in Dynamics, who's become the unofficial evangelist for one of Microsoft's most underutilized powerhouses: the Commerce Scale Unit (CSU). What started as a technical deep-dive quickly revealed why this caching layer might be the secret weapon your organization didn't know it needed. Patrick painted the CSU's evolution from humble beginnings—when Dynamics Commerce was just simple file transfers between POS systems and ERP—to today's sophisticated API-driven architecture. The CSU sits between your ERP and front-end applications, caching data in deployable regional instances that deliver lightning-fast responses for inventory lookups, pricing calculations, and order processing. It's the difference between customers seeing spinning wheels and instant results. The conversation took an interesting turn when Patrick shared his "wild guess" about the future: CSU expanding beyond commerce to become a universal API layer for all Dynamics data, potentially including Dataverse and third-party sources. He demonstrated this vision with a real example—showing how partners could skip building custom pricing services for Customer Engagement by simply tapping into CSU's pricing APIs that handle 98% of scenarios, including the new unified pricing engine. The biggest roadblock? Licensing. Patrick's AI-assisted cost analysis shows the per-order impact is surprisingly low, but there's no license option for companies wanting to use just a few APIs rather than full commerce functionality. Despite technical hurdles around documentation and the need for both functional and technical expertise, Patrick can typically implement a headless e-commerce solution using 20-25 key APIs in just five days. Resources mentioned: CSU documentation on GitHub, inventory visibility integration, unified pricing APIs, headless commerce architecture, Azure AI search capabilities.

I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I dig into something I wish I'd learned a lot sooner — how to build a profitable restaurant that doesn't eat you alive. Hustle alone won't cut it. I talk about what it really takes to break free from burnout: shifting your mindset and reconnecting with what genuinely fires you up. When we chase what excites us, we craft experiences our guests can't resist. I share how showing up authentically — in how we engage with folks and how we market our businesses — draws in the right people and keeps them coming back. Because at the end of the day, if you build a restaurant that feeds your soul, it'll feed your bank account too.Takeaways:Most restaurant owners think they need more guests.Profit isn't random, it's engineered.You need to change you and the way you see your restaurant.Design a restaurant that you love.Your best customers don't need a great reason to come back.Stop pushing lazy offers.Write marketing campaigns that would make you come in.Audit your menu and guest experience.Build a brand that you would fall in love with.Engage with customers authentically.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Full Comp and Profitability Masterclass01:37 Transforming Your Restaurant's Approach to Marketing05:04 Creating Irresistible Experiences for Guests07:41 Engaging with Customers AuthenticallyIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.

What do a superhero named Captain Rochester, a bold business trip to Brazil, and AI-powered sales have in common?  Lacey sits down with Colin Strother, Executive Vice President at Rochester Electronics, to explore how a human-first approach is transforming digital transformation. Colin shares his leadership philosophy around shifting from traditional B2B to P2P — person-to-person — emphasizing the power of authentic customer relationships in a global, tech-driven landscape.   From AI agents and guided selling to hyper-personalization and seamless cross-functional collaboration, Colin details how Rochester is building scalable, trust-centered systems that keep people at the core. Tune in to hear how decades of leadership, a global outlook, and a bold trip to Brazil helped shape Rochester's future… and why the real key to innovation might be as simple as staying human in a high-tech world.  Key Moments:   00:00: P2P, Global CX, and Hyper-Personalization at Scale05:55 Introducing Colin Strother, EVP at Rochester Electronics09:55 Keys to Global Customer Engagement14:07 Implementing P2P and Unified Commerce19:47 AI and Digital Transformation at Rochester36:34 Building Trust in Change Management39:41 Adopting Slack for Business Efficiency45:48 Navigating Data Integration  53:14 Hyper-Personalization at Scale01:01:26 Leadership and Authenticity at Rochester Electronics –Are your teams facing growing demands? Join CX leaders transforming their AI strategy with Agentforce. Start achieving your ambitious goals. Visit salesforce.com/agentforce Mission.org is a media studio producing content alongside world-class clients. Learn more at mission.org

In this conversation, Brian Gottlieb shares his insights on the importance of management in shaping organizational culture, the challenges and strategies in the home improvement industry, and the significance of leadership and decision-making in business success. He emphasizes the need for effective recruitment, innovative marketing strategies, and the five pillars of leadership that can drive a company towards growth and excellence. The discussion also touches on the importance of financial management and the role of culture in employee engagement and retention.   Don't forget to register for Tommy's event, Freedom 2025! This is the event where Tommy's billion-dollar network will break down exactly how to accelerate your business and dominate your market in 2025.   For more details visit freedomevent.com   00:00 The Role of Management in Organizational Culture   04:16 Navigating the Home Improvement Industry   08:47 The Journey of Starting a Business   13:00 Sales Strategies and Customer Engagement   19:44 Building a Strong Company Culture   24:36 Leadership and Decision-Making   30:16 The Importance of Financial Management   35:27 Recruitment and Talent Acquisition   39:23 Innovative Marketing Strategies   46:27 The Five Pillars of Leadership   53:33 Closing Thoughts and Key Takeaways    

In this episode of your favorite smart home podcast, Ryan Okimoto -- Senior Director of Customer Engagement at Brilliant -- joins as guest host. We walk through the week's news such as Nomad's new Find My Leather MagSafe wallet, price increases for Hue products, and product leaks in Apple's code. Finally, we get into some Q&A around the return of Brilliant, maker of a smart wall panel that works with Apple Home.Send us your HomeKit questions and recommendations with the hashtag homekitinsider. Tweet and follow our hosts at:@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail us hereSponsored by:Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at: shopify.com/homekitHomeKit Insider YouTube ChannelSubscribe to the HomeKit Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the showRecent code leaksGE A19 bulb at TargetSignify announces price increasesNomad Leather Mag WalletBest Find My Wallets (video)Brilliant's websiteThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

The landscape of retail is cluttered with messages, distractions, gimmicks, and desperate bids for scraps of customers attention. After a while, it all starts to look, sound, and feel the same. How do you stand out for the right reasons and engage with your customers and future customers in ways that provide something sustainable and unique?  In today's episode we will be discussing some great ways that you can be engaged with your customers, and the community around you so you solidify your relationship and reputation with your existing customers, and are better positioned to gain new ones as you go!   Listen to these related episodes! 215 : Communication and Marketing Master Class w/ Spencer M. Ross, PH.D. 282 : How to Listen to your Customers 443: Want Impactful Messaging? Keep it Simple! w/ Author Ben Guttmann 433: Winning Staff and Customer Loyalty   KEYS TO THE SHOP OFFERS 1:1 CONSULTING AND COACHING! If you are a cafe owner and want to work one on one with me to bring your shop to its next level and help bring you joy and freedom in the process then email  chris@keystothshop.com of book a free call now:  https://calendly.com/chrisdeferio/30min      Want a beautiful coffee shop? All your hard surface, stone, Tile and brick needs!  www.arto.com Visit @artobrick The world loves plant based beverages and baristas love the Barista Series!  www.pacificfoodservice.com  

Ibrahim Mohmed is the founder of CourtSide Media Group and the co-founder & CEO of Taja AI. His entrepreneurial journey began right here in Ohio, where he launched CourtSide Media, a digital media agency that serves influencers with audiences ranging from 1 million to 75 million followers across various social platforms. Through CourtSide Media, Ibrahim has collaborated with high-profile clients including NBA legend Kevin Garnett, Cleveland's FutureLAND annual conference, and prominent influencer Lauren Fitzmaurice—effectively amplifying their reach and impact through strategic, organic growth.Building on his success with CourtSide, Ibrahim co-founded Taja AI—a platform designed specifically to empower small businesses and content creators. TAJA AI automates content workflows by optimizing, repurposing, and scheduling content, significantly saving time for thousands of creators while maximizing their audience engagement and discoverability.Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Ibrahim is deeply committed to social impact through his organization, Nile Nights, which curates events to raise awareness and funds for individuals and communities affected by the ongoing conflict in Sudan.As a founder at the forefront of media and AI, Ibrahim offers powerful insight into where the space is headed and what it takes to succeed within it—please enjoy this fascinating conversation with Ibrahim Mohmed.00:00:00 - The Shift to Video Podcasting  00:04:06 - Understanding Taja AI  00:06:03 - The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins  00:08:14 - The Drive for Storytelling in Media  00:11:47 - The Power of Technological Leverage  00:13:22 - The Vision and Evolution of Taja AI  00:15:31 - User Experience and Product Functionality  00:17:36 - Building a Scalable Company with AI  00:20:35 - The Changing Landscape of Venture Capital  00:22:10 - Navigating Model Providers in AI  00:23:30 - Navigating Competition in the AI Landscape  00:26:26 - Understanding Vibe Coding and Its Impact  00:27:52 - Product Philosophy and Customer Engagement  00:29:41 - Common Mistakes Creators Make  00:32:34 - The Intersection of AI and Human Creativity  00:35:01 - Sustainable Business Models in Content Creation  00:36:42 - Personal Impact and Future Aspirations  00:37:48 - Embracing Adversity in Entrepreneurship  00:40:28 - Looking Ahead: Growth and Innovation  00:47:00 - Final Thoughts and Hidden Gems in Cleveland-----LINKS:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ibrahim-mohmed-982076110/https://www.courtsidegroup.com/https://www.taja.ai/-----SPONSOR:Roundstone InsuranceRoundstone Insurance is proud to sponsor Lay of The Land. Founder and CEO, Michael Schroeder, has committed full-year support for the podcast, recognizing its alignment with the company's passion for entrepreneurship, innovation, and community leadership.Headquartered in Rocky River, Ohio, Roundstone was founded in 2005 with a vision to deliver better healthcare outcomes at a more affordable cost. To bring that vision to life, the company pioneered the group medical captive model — a self-funded health insurance solution that provides small and mid-sized businesses with greater control and significant savings.Over the past two decades, Roundstone has grown rapidly, creating nearly 200 jobs in Northeast Ohio. The company works closely with employers and benefits advisors to navigate the complexities of commercial health insurance and build custom plans that prioritize employee well-being over shareholder returns. By focusing on aligned incentives and better health outcomes, Roundstone is helping businesses save thousands in Per Employee Per Year healthcare costs.Roundstone Insurance — Built for entrepreneurs. Backed by innovation. Committed to Cleveland.-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here.Past guests include Justin Bibb (Mayor of Cleveland), Pat Conway (Great Lakes Brewing), Steve Potash (OverDrive), Umberto P. Fedeli (The Fedeli Group), Lila Mills (Signal Cleveland), Stewart Kohl (The Riverside Company), Mitch Kroll (Findaway — Acquired by Spotify), and over 200 other Cleveland Entrepreneurs.Connect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

Trade shows are full of energy, great conversations, and promising connections — but too often, those leads go cold once the event ends. In this episode, I share a practical 3-step approach to help you turn those moments into momentum.Drawing on real-world experiences and conversations I've had with industrial teams, we'll walk through:How to pre-target the right audience so you're not just showing up — you're showing up prepared.Why onsite storytelling matters more than sales pitches.What it takes to do timely, personalized follow-up that actually moves the relationship forward.I'll also show you how tools like ChatGPT can help you and your team streamline these steps, making the post-show process faster, more consistent, and more human. Whether you're a solo marketer or part of a lean sales team, this episode will give you ideas you can use right away.Episode Breakdown:00:00 – The Trade Show Follow-Up Dilemma01:49 – Step 1: Audience Pre-Targeting05:06 – Step 2: Onsite Storytelling10:06 – Step 3: Post-Event Follow-Up11:03 – Leveraging AI for Effective Follow-Up15:51 – The Importance of Timely Follow-Up17:39 – Final Thoughts and Real-Life ExampleIf you'd like help setting up your own AI follow-up strategy, I offer 1:1 sessions and team training that's tailored to your goals. Let's make your next trade show your most productive one yet.* Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-peterson-world-innovators* Visit World Innovators: https://www.worldinnovators.com*** Watch on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WorldInnovatorsAnd don't forget to hit subscribe to stay inspired and make your marketing more meaningful.I'm thrilled to be speaking at FABTECH 2025, September 8–11 in Chicago!This is where the brightest minds in manufacturing come together. Join me for four days of learning, inspiration, and connection.Grab your 20% off conference pass now with code SPEAK20!https://i.snoball.it/p/ksiGQ/s/2

Today is a special episode. This is our 250th episode!To celebrate, Laura and Kevin sit down with Dikshant Dave, a three-time founder and current CEO of Zigment, to explore the next frontier in AI, Agentic AI. Dikshant breaks down what sets Zigment apart in the crowded marketing tech world and explains how Agentic AI systems do more than just automate, they learn, adapt, and make decisions on the fly.The conversation touches on his journey through multiple startups, the challenges of balancing innovation with privacy, and the industries where AI is just getting started. Dikshant shares sharp takes on job displacement, the ethics of extracting personal data, and what transparency in AI really looks like. He also dives into a big question: Can empathy be automated? And should it be? Plus, hear what kind of startup he'd build next, and who he'd begrudgingly? choose to be stuck in an elevator with. It's a thoughtful, funny, and wide-ranging conversation with someone who's not just building tech, but rethinking how it fits into the real world.Dikshant Dave is the CEO of Zigment, a marketing automation platform built around Agentic AI—intelligent systems that go beyond automation to actively learn, adapt, and make decisions across every customer touchpoint. With Zigment, he's redefining how businesses engage with customers by combining proactive AI with human insight to drive measurable impact: higher lead conversion, smarter workflows, and stronger ROI. A three-time founder with a background in startups like CureJoy and Funstar, Dikshant has made a career out of pushing the boundaries of what tech can do. His latest work focuses on the rise of AI agents, the future of personalization at scale, and how businesses can tap into AI without losing the human touch. He's also passionate about using AI for good, most recently through Zigment's nonprofit partnership with Give.org.

Episode 196 - AgentForce v3 and Smarter Customer Engagement

If you think Hallmark is just about greeting cards and holiday movies, think again. In this first of a two-part conversation, I sit down with Patrick McCullough, President of Hallmark Business Connections, to explore how over 110 years of creating emotional connection can teach B2B brands how to build stronger, more meaningful relationships—with customers, employees, and even themselves.Patrick brings years of experience helping companies foster loyalty and purpose by focusing on what really matters: relationships. You'll hear about how trust is built over time, why meaningful interactions at work make life more fulfilling, and what B2B leaders can do today to create a culture of connection.In a world where people are tired of being treated like transactions, this episode offers real, actionable steps on how to lead with care, create trust, and build loyalty that lasts. Whether you're a marketer, a sales leader, or an executive trying to shape a more human-centered culture—there's something in here for you.We all can learn from Hallmark.

In this conversation, John Harcar interviews Jared Hart about the integration of AI in the mortgage industry. Jared shares his journey from being a loan officer to developing AI-powered tools that assist loan officers in managing their processes and engaging with clients. The discussion covers the challenges of software development, the importance of utilizing technology, and the common mistakes loan officers make. Jared emphasizes the significance of persistence and having a clear goal in business, while also highlighting the value of maintaining a robust database for client follow-up. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we're diving into one of the most powerful, underrated strategies for breaking through the noise in today's sales landscape: using GIFs and memes in your follow-up. If your internet leads keep ghosting you, you're not alone—and you're not helpless. Jen shares how she coaches dealerships to inject low-pressure, fun, and memorable energy into their messaging with visual media. You'll hear real-world examples and get a framework for building your own “GIF & Meme Library” to use in various sales scenarios—from day-one outreach to long-term follow-up. This one strategy has helped dealership teams stand out, boost engagement, and most importantly, connect like humans again. Whether you're in the BDC, selling on the floor, or leading a sales team, this episode will give you a fresh way to be relevant, visible, and impossible to ignore. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |

Consent, Compliance, and Conversational AI: Marketing's New RealityIn this episode, Nitin Seth, CEO of SMS Magic & Conversive, reveals how strict privacy regulations like GDPR and TCPA are forcing marketers to completely rebuild their customer engagement infrastructure around sophisticated consent management and AI-powered channel orchestration.  Most provocatively, Nitin argues that traditional mass-market branding is dead—replaced by direct customer experience and real-time engagement that requires marketers to master database marketing, social media management, and AI-driven personalization to survive in this privacy-first future.About Nitin Seth: Nitin Seth is the CEO & Co-Founder of SMS Magic & Conversive.  5 Key Takeaways for Marketers: 1. Privacy Compliance Is Now Table Stakes, Not Optional2. Consent Management Requires Sophisticated Digital Infrastructure3. AI-Powered Channel Orchestration Is Replacing Single-Channel Thinking4. Conversational AI Will Transform Brand Engagement Architecture5. Traditional Branding Is Dead - Direct Customer Experience Is KingTimestamps00:04:22 - 00:05:42 From IIT Engineer to Marketing Tech CEO: Nitin's Journey00:05:42 - 00:08:37 Why Privacy-First Marketing Is Now Essential for Every Brand00:08:38 - 00:10:45 Privacy Laws Then vs Now: What Changed for Marketers?00:10:45 - 00:13:53 The Compliance Landscape: US vs European Marketing Rules00:13:53 - 00:17:41 How Brands Actually Handle HIPAA and Privacy Compliance00:17:41 - 00:20:49 What Every Marketer Must Know About Privacy Compliance00:20:49 - 00:25:47 What Is "Consent" and Why It Matters for Your Marketing00:25:47 - 00:30:22 Building Customer Preference Centers That Actually Work00:30:22 - 00:34:36 How AI Can Make Privacy Compliance Easier (Not Harder)00:34:36 - 00:39:49 Channel Orchestration: The Future of Customer Engagement00:39:49 - 00:43:11 From Search to Conversations: How Customer Behavior Is Changing00:43:11 - 00:47:32 Will ChatGPT Kill Google Ads? The Future of Lead Generation00:47:32 - 00:48:58 How Conversational AI Will Transform Customer Experience00:48:58 - 00:55:40 Building Brand-Specific AI Without Losing Customer Data00:55:41 - 00:59:10 The New Marketing Architecture: Privacy + AI + Personalization00:59:10 - 00:59:56 Essential Skills Every Marketer Needs for the Privacy Era00:59:56 - 01:00:47 Tech Skills That Will Future-Proof Your Marketing Career01:00:47 - 01:02:27 What Should 18-Year-Olds Learn for Marketing's Future?01:02:27 - 01:04:19 The Death of Traditional Branding: One Professor's Prediction#PrivacyFirstMarketing, #ConversationalAI, #MarketingCompliance, #CustomerEngagement, #AIMarketing, #DataPrivacy, #MarketingTech, #FutureOfMarketing, #ConsentManagement, #marketingautomationThis episode was made possible by the great folks at MovingWalls. Moving Walls provides a global Adtech platform built by Out-of-home advertising experts, automating the process of planning, buying, executing and measuring OOH campaigns, with a presence across four continents and seven markets.  Moving Walls is also a Tie50 winner, a listing of 50 most enterprising startups globally. Visit https://www.movingwalls.com to learn more. Selected Links and Show Notes: https://www.contraminds.comSubscribe to our Weekly Newsletter: https://blog.contraminds.comFollow UsTwitter: https://twitter.com/contramindsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/contraminds/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/contramindsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/contraminds

Everyone has goals — some are monumental, others modest — but every goal matters. Join guest Szu-chi Huang, an expert in sustaining enthusiasm for individuals, customers, and employees across global corporations and organizations, as she delves into the science of motivation. Discover how the gap between where you are and where you want to be is bridged by a dynamic blend of psychology, sociology, behavioral economics, neuroscience, and the latest in AI. The secret to achieving your goals? Stay adaptable. If one approach falters, switch gears to keep your drive alive, Huang tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Szu-chi HuangConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Szu-Chi Huang, professor of marketing at Stanford GSB.(00:03:31) Studying MotivationSzu-chi shares what led her to study motivational science(00:04:03) Defining MotivationMotivation as the drive to close the gap between current and ideal self.(00:04:57) The Science of MotivationStudying motivation through behavioral and neurological data.(00:05:48) Why It Matters in BusinessHow motivation science applies to leaders, teams, and customers.(00:06:39) Motivation FrameworkThe strategies needed in order to stay motivated over time.(00:07:42) The Mindset of MotivationThe different mindsets needed throughout the stages of motivation.(00:09:21) Motivating Kids to Choose HealthyA Collaboration with UNICEF to study what motivates children.(00:10:55) Gamified Coupons in PanamaA study using gamified coupons to influence children's food choices.(00:14:26) Loyalty Programs as MotivationHow customer reward programs act as structured goal journeys.(00:16:47) Progress Versus PurposeThe different incentives needed in each stage of loyalty programs.(00:18:29) Retirement Saving LessonsHow financial institutions apply motivational science to long-term goals.(00:21:12) Motivation in Social ContextThe role of social connections in goal pursuit and sustaining motivation.(00:26:10) Designing Apps for MotivationHow redesigning user interfaces can help users stay motivated.(00:27:20) AI as a Motivation CoachUsing AI to personalize feedback across all stages of goal pursuit.(00:30:09) Starting and Sustaining a GoalPractical strategies for launching and sustaining a goal.(00:31:57) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

Today's guest is Carolene Méli, a ghostwriter for live entertainment executives and whose career has been anything but predictable.She started out studying nutrition, but what followed was a 20-year adventure in the live entertainment world. Carolene spent 11 of those years as the Guest Experience Manager of VIP Experiences at Cirque du Soleil, traveling to 17 countries, managing six different shows, and creating magical behind-the-scenes moments for audiences across the globe.Then—like so many of us—the pandemic flipped everything upside down.Carolene gets real about what it was like to lose a job she loved, face the uncertainty of solopreneurship, and navigate the deeply humbling moment of asking her parents for financial help. But her story doesn't stop there. With the help of therapy, community, and a ghostwriting mastermind, she found her footing again—this time, by helping top-tier execs in entertainment shape their personal brand and voice on LinkedIn.If you've ever had to rebuild, reroute, or reinvent yourself completely, this one's for you. Carolene's story is packed with honesty, courage, and the kind of hope you might need to hear right now.Episode TakeawaysCarolene Méli unique career journey from nutrition to ghostwritingHer 11-year experience with Cirque du Soleil and the leadership and storytelling skills she developedThe impact of the pandemic on her career and the pivot to solopreneurshipThe emotional and financial challenges that come with starting over—especially asking for helpThe role of therapy in her healing and professional rebirthHow community and collaboration (like a ghostwriting mastermind) helped her growLessons in resilience, reinvention, and letting go of "shoulds"Why personal branding matters, especially for execs in creative industriesConnect with CaroleneLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolenemeli/ Thanks for listening to The Career Flipper!If you enjoyed this episode, let's spread the word! Share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps other career flippers find the show.Let's Stay Connected:Join the community: thecareerflipper.comTikTok: @thecareerflipperInstagram: @thecareerflipperpodGot a career flip story? I'd love to hear it—and maybe even have you on the podcast! Whether you've completed your flip, are just starting, or are in the thick of it, submit your story here: https://www.thecareerflipper.com Want to support the show?Looking for a speaker? I'd love to talk about career changes at your next event.Collaborate through sponsorships or affiliates! Let's work together.Email me: hello@thecareerflipper.comCheck Out My Customer Service CoursesBefore my career flip, I led customer experience teams and created online courses that have helped over 12,000 students worldwide. Whether you're switching to customer service or sharpening your skills to run your own business, these courses are packed with practical tips. Learn more at thecareerflipper.com/courses.Other Ways to Get Involved:Buy me a coffee!Explore my furniture flipsMusic CreditsSeason 1: Intro and outro music by audionautix.com. Season 2: Intro and outro original music by Jenny Dempsey, recorded in a home studio.What's the best that could happen?

In this episode of Builders Wanted, we sit down with Dar Miranda, VP of Customer Engagement at DailyPay, to delve into the innovative strategies behind real-time financial management for workers. Explore how financial stress impacts employee engagement, the shift towards employee-centric pay models, and the bold moves Daily Pay is making to transform traditional payroll systems.-------------------Key Takeaways:DailyPay's mission to provide employees faster, more flexible access to earned wages.Financial stress causes a significant impact on employees' focus, productivity, and job satisfaction.The integration of AI will help solve customer problems and drive growth, but will not replace humans.-------------------“ The trend that I'm watching most closely is the integration of AI to proactively solve customer problems, but also unlock new growth avenues. So it's not just about reactively answering questions or the ability to reactively answer questions quickly, it's about shifting AI from this like cost center efficiency play  to a revenue and loyalty driver.” – Dar Miranda-------------------Episode Timestamps:‍*(05:36) - The boldest thing DailyPay is building right now‍*(11:25) - The surprising way users engage with DailyPay ‍*(21:15) - Where Dar draws the line between automation and human connection ‍*(32:01) - A CX trend Dar is watching closely ‍*(36:27) - What every CX leader should start or stop doing‍*(38:55) - Dar's advice for builders creating empathetic customer experiences-------------------Links:Connect with Dar on LinkedInConnect with Kailey on LinkedInLearn more about Caspian Studios-------------------SponsorBuilders Wanted is brought to you by Twilio – the Customer Engagement Platform that helps builders turn real-time data into meaningful customer experiences. More than 320,000 businesses trust Twilio to transform signals into connections—and connections into revenue. Ready to build what's next? Learn more at twilio.com.

CTATake the free assessment at https://precisionselling.scoreapp.com/ to see how you or your team stack up in influencing skills.Summary Keywords#PrecisionSelling, #Influence, #SalesExcellence, #Storytelling, #EffectiveMeetings, #LeadershipCommunication, #OpenQuestions, #SalesStrategy, #CustomerEngagement, #EnterpriseExcellence IntroductionIn this second episode of our three-part series on Precision Selling, we're joined again by global experts Suzanne Wooley and Steven Edney. This time, we unpack the subtle art of setting effective meetings using the POST method (Purpose, Outcome, Structure, Timing), mastering the question funnel to uncover real client needs, and delivering compelling stories that land with impact. Whether you're in sales, leadership, or internal influence roles, this episode provides actionable insights to help you move people forward — internally and externally. Episode Links:Youtube: https://youtu.be/_F1xtnWdiLMEnterprise Excellence Academy Contacts✔ Suzanne Woolley — Sales Capability Manager, PepsiCo Australia (you may reach out via LinkedIn or PepsiCo Australia's main site.)✔ Steven Edney — Managing Director & Co-owner, Expression for Growth (connect via expressionforgrowth.com or LinkedIn.)✔ Brad Jeavons — Host, Enterprise Excellence Podcast

In this insightful episode, Brian Doyle leads a detailed examination of VCIO and fractional VCIO services, much to the benefit of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) looking to expand their leadership roles. By delving into strategies that elevate MSPs beyond standard practices, Brian showcases how these roles fulfill a crucial need for innovation and cybersecurity adherence in businesses lacking internal CIOs. Throughout the discussion, he shares how fractional VCIO services present new opportunities for MSPs to charge for deeper strategic services. Through the lens of his extensive 17-year experience in the MSP industry, Brian reveals the pitfalls MSPs often face by offering comprehensive VCIO services without sufficient compensation. By detailing the distinctions between traditional technology business reviews and the strategic integration potential of fractional VCIO, Brian provides a roadmap for MSPs to enhance their customer relations while capturing new revenue streams. He also explores the importance of understanding client operations and the collaboration required across all organizational levels to effectively implement these services. Key Takeaways: VCIO as a Service Benefits: Discover the essential role of VCIO and fractional VCIO services in bridging strategic leadership gaps within businesses, pushing beyond typical QBR obligations. Monetizing Strategic Services: Brian explains how MSPs can successfully transition from free service delivery to a revenue-generating fractional VCIO model. Customer Engagement and Strategy: Learn how to engage with key customer stakeholders across varying levels, ensuring alignment of technology strategies with business objectives. Building Effective Packages: Insights into creating tiered service packages that scale with client needs, potentially unlocking new revenue for MSPs. Common Pitfalls: Guard against common errors in providing uncompensated services, ensuring profitability while maintaining high-value client relationship Show Website: https://mspbusinessschool.com/ Host Brian Doyle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandoylevciotoolbox/ Sponsor vCIOToolbox: https://vciotoolbox.com

In this episode, John Waldmann, CEO of Homebase, shares how the 10-year-old SaaS company blew up its roadmap and rebuilt around AI—from culture to code. He walks us through the shift from 20-page PRDs to lightning-fast demos, reclaiming product leadership, and pushing teams into their “oh shit” moment with AI.We explore the leadership reckoning, cultural resistance, and practical playbook behind the transformation—and what it means for the future of SaaS, small businesses, and human-centered AI. If you're leading (or bracing for) an AI shift, this one's packed with hard-earned lessons and honest insight.Key Takeaways: You Can't Wait for Buy-In—Leadership Means Pushing the Shift — John didn't wait for excitement or alignment—he took back product leadership and forced the move toward AI. It wasn't about consensus, it was about momentum. If you're leading a team through this kind of shift, your job isn't to ask for permission—it's to create urgency before it's obvious.Speed Over Specs — Prototypes Are the New Strategy — Homebase moved from 20-page PRDs to live demos built in hours. That switch didn't just make shipping faster—it changed the way teams learn, think, and listen to customers. The takeaway? Stop planning in the abstract. Ship something real, now.Culture Is the Real AI Roadblock — The hardest part of going AI-first isn't tech—it's trust, fear, and inertia. From engineers to support teams, John had to help people reach their “oh shit” moment with AI. That's when change sticks. Until then, it's just optional homework. Leaders need to make adoption inevitable.AI Should Bring You Closer to Your Customers, Not Farther — This episode isn't about chasing shiny tools. It's about using AI to reduce the noise—so your team can focus more on humans, not less. For John, pragmatic AI is about freeing up time, getting closer to customer problems, and making the org feel smaller, not colder.LinkedIn: John Waldmann | LinkedInHomebase: All-in-one Employee Scheduling, Time Clocks, Payroll, & More | Homebase00:00 Introduction and Initial Reactions to AI00:31 Meet John Waldmann and the Story of Homebase00:53 Reinventing Homebase as an AI-First Company01:46 From PRDs to Prototypes: Building Faster, Learning Smarter05:02 How AI Is Reshaping the Customer Experience09:19 Culture Shock: Resistance, Skepticism, and AI Adoption14:03 The End of SaaS as We Know It?19:34 Leading Through Disruption: Ownership, Urgency, and Org Design25:12 Forcing the Shift: Getting Teams to Embrace AI27:50 Hiring the Unemployed—and Other Nontraditional Talent Bets28:56 Curiosity > Credentials: What to Look for in AI-Ready Teams31:57 New Expectations, OKRs, and Holding Teams Accountable37:10 Serving Small Businesses Better with AI44:52 Final Thoughts: Team Dynamics, Founder Risk, and What's Next

Tired of sending dead-end follow-up texts that get ignored? In this episode of Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki, we dive into the exact words, tactics, and mindset shifts you need to revive ghosted leads and get customers talking again. Jen breaks down real-world follow-up strategies straight from her dealership coaching sessions—no fluff, just proven scripts that get opens, responses, and appointments. Whether you're texting, emailing, or voice dropping, this episode gives you a playbook to level up your message game and spark real conversations that convert into car deals. Dealer Talk with Jen Suzuki Podcast |

In this episode, we sit down with John Cooney, Group CEO of Forbidden City, to explore the brand's unique approach to luxury in the iGaming industry. John shares the vision behind positioning Forbidden City as a premium brand that seamlessly blends high-end retail, hospitality, and online gaming. From exclusive design elements to VIP experiences, listeners get an inside look at how Forbidden City is redefining what it means to deliver luxury in a digital entertainment space.John dives into the innovative strategies powering the brand's success, including a game-changing loyalty program designed to mirror the sophistication of elite lifestyle brands. We also examine the complexities of operating in a highly regulated environment and the balancing act between brand integrity and compliance. With insights into market adaptation and digital transformation, this conversation is a masterclass for anyone looking to elevate their brand within the iGaming world.The episode also explores the brand's core focus on high net worth individuals and how Forbidden City curates experiences tailored to this niche. John discusses potential pathways for expansion into broader gaming markets, the critical role of strategic partnerships, and the future of luxury in the online gaming space. Host: Joe StreeterGuest: John CooneyProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: James RossiGaming Daily is the official podcast of SBC Summit Malta. Taking place from 10-12 June at the Intercontinental in Malta, SBC Summit Malta is the definitive casino and betting event where European companies and professionals converge to explore cutting-edge insights, gain transformative skills, and forge impactful connections with senior decision-makers. Get your tickets now at sbcevents.com.iGaming Daily is also now on TikTok. Make sure to follow us at iGaming Daily Podcast (@igaming_daily_podcast) | TikTok for bite-size clips from your favourite podcast. Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

Welcome to The SaaS CFO Podcast! In today's episode, I'm excited to sit down with Adam Chrigström, founder and CEO of Big Audience Machine (BAM). Adam's journey has taken him from studying economics to a successful run in brand marketing and research, leading to the launch and acquisition of Play Pilot—a streaming guide that reached over six million monthly users. After serving as Head of AI at the acquiring fund, Adam launched Big Audience Machine, a cutting-edge content marketing platform designed to help companies turn strategy and deep brand understanding into effective, multi-channel content. Adam shares what inspired him to build BAM, lessons he's learned from pivoting in the creative and SaaS industries, and practical advice for founders navigating early-stage growth, team building, and fundraising in today's AI-driven market. We'll talk about how BAM is helping both agencies and in-house teams, what they've learned from working closely with pilot customers, and what's coming next as they prepare for an exciting public launch. Whether you're a founder, marketer, or just looking to glimpse the future of content and branding, tune in for Adam Chrigström's story and insights! Show Notes: 00:00 Pivot from Pre-Production Platform 05:46 "BAM: Streamlined Content Marketing Platform" 07:35 Effective AI-Driven Content Strategy 11:10 AI's Limitations in Brand Intuition 14:57 "Early-Stage Branding Strategy Development" 20:40 Early-Stage Product and Customer Engagement 21:54 "Data Challenges and Future Plans" Links: SaaS Fundraising Stories: https://www.thesaasnews.com/news/big-audience-machine-raises-350k-in-funding Adam Chrigström's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-chrigstr%C3%B6m/ Big Audience Machine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-audience-machine/ Big Audience Machine's Website: https://www.bigaudiencemachine.com/ To learn more about Ben check out the links below: Subscribe to Ben's daily metrics newsletter: https://saasmetricsschool.beehiiv.com/subscribe Subscribe to Ben's SaaS newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/df1db6bf8bca/the-saas-cfo-sign-up-landing-page SaaS Metrics courses here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/ Join Ben's SaaS community here: https://www.thesaasacademy.com/offers/ivNjwYDx/checkout Follow Ben on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benrmurray

What does it take to build a new tech category before the market is ready?In this episode of SaaS Fuel, host Jeff Mains dives deep with Danny Tomsett, founder and CEO of UneeQ, the global leader in emotionally intelligent AI-powered digital humans. From early breakthroughs to hard pivots, Danny shares how his team navigated the rollercoaster of creating frontier tech, scaling sustainably, and keeping vision and culture alive through it all.You'll hear the behind-the-scenes story of Nadia, a digital human project with IBM and the Australian Government, the challenge of market timing, and the power of narrowing focus for growth. If you're building ahead of the curve, this is your playbook.Key Takeaways00:00 – The evolution of UneeQ's business model02:01 – Building a new tech category with AI-powered digital humans06:27 – From digital games to emotionally intelligent avatars10:39 – How digital humans transform customer experience12:54 – Realism vs. relatability in AI avatars16:07 – Building trust with humanized tech16:31 – The hardest part of creating a new category21:49 – Biggest lessons learned on the journey23:46 – Keeping teams aligned through rapid innovation27:04 – SaaS founders: Scale faster with Champion Leadership28:14 – AI's real impact on jobs and customer service31:31 – Emotional intelligence and sales simulations34:28 – Outcome-based training with digital humans35:22 – Growing pains and moments that almost broke the company40:44 – Bootstrapping vs. raising capital in frontier tech45:32 – Advice for building ahead of the market48:00 – Product-market timing and finding the real problem53:40 – What's next in AI-human interaction?Tweetable Quotes“We weren't just ahead of the curve—we were ahead of the market. That hurts.” — Danny Tomsett“Emotionally intelligent digital humans aren't the future. They're already here—and they work.” — Danny Tomsett“If the market doesn't get it yet, your job isn't just to build—it's to educate.” — Jeff Mains“Culture is your most scalable codebase.” — Danny Tomsett“The problem you're solving might not be the one they care about yet.” — Danny Tomsett“Digital humans flip training from time-based to outcome-based. That's real impact.” — Jeff MainsSaaS Leadership LessonsBuild for what's real, not just what's cool. Danny shares how hype distracted from traction and how focus created results.You can't time the market perfectly—but you can pivot. The original platform model gave way to niche training simulations with real adoption.Culture and systems scale better than code. When the team nearly burned out, Danny rebuilt the business on clarity and operational alignment.Emotion matters in tech. Especially in sales training and customer experience—digital humans that feel human drive engagement.Don't fall in love with the wrong problem. Sam Altman's advice: go deeper to find the root need your product must solve.Being early is painful—but survivable. Category creation requires stamina, education, and constant storytelling to shape the market.Guest ResourcesEmail - dannyt@uneeq.comWebsite - http://www.uneeq.com/Episode SponsorSmall Fish, Big Pond –

This conversation delves into the importance of enhancing communication skills within the home service industry, focusing on call conversions, customer service, and the balance between technology and human interaction. Brigham discusses the impact of private equity on training, the necessity of ongoing coaching, and the role of leadership in achieving business success. They emphasize the need for technicians to improve their performance and the importance of understanding customer needs. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolving landscape of call centers, the importance of technology in customer engagement, and the need for better communication skills among technicians. They explore investment trends in the home service industry, the significance of personal touch in customer experience, and strategies for staying ahead in the market. Additionally, they provide insights for aspiring speakers and outline the onboarding process for Power Selling Pros. Don't forget to register for Tommy's event, Freedom 2025! This is the event where Tommy's billion-dollar network will break down exactly how to accelerate your business and dominate your market in 2025. For more details visit freedomevent.com 00:00 Enhancing Communication Skills in Home Services   02:23 Identifying Blind Spots in Call Conversions   04:46 The Impact of Private Equity on Training   08:31 Maximizing Technician Performance and Lead Generation   11:56 The Importance of Comprehensive Customer Service   15:15 Balancing Technology and Human Interaction   21:33 The Role of Leadership in Business Success   24:57 The Value of Ongoing Training and Accountability   29:11 Rising Awareness in Call Centers   30:45 Leveraging Technology for Customer Engagement   31:51 The Importance of Technological Adaptation   33:07 Investment Trends in Home Services   34:54 Enhancing Customer Experience through Personal Touch   35:59 Training Technicians for Better Communication   39:17 Transforming Service into Sales   44:19 Staying Ahead in the Home Service Industry   47:35 Advice for Aspiring Speakers   57:21 Onboarding and Next Steps for Power Selling Pros 

In this Made in America podcast episode, Nelson Bruton, President of Manufacturing Chats, shares insights on how manufacturers can boost their sales and business growth through practical, effective communication tools like live chat. The discussion covers the evolution of Manufacturing Chats from a full-service digital marketing agency to a specialized provider of live chat solutions tailored for industrial manufacturers. Nelson emphasizes the importance of real-time customer engagement, drawing parallels between live chat and trade show interactions. He also explores the potential of AI in chat services while highlighting the continued need for human interaction in complex sales environments. This episode is a valuable resource for manufacturers looking to enhance their sales strategies and improve customer engagement.  Youtube: https://youtu.be/SIXhUjWBpA4 Podcast Website: https://madeinamerica.compassmsp.com/nelson-bruton-manufacturing-chats Nelson Bruton's LinkedIn Manufacturing Chats Website  Manufacturing Chats LinkedIn Ari Santiago's LinkedIn CompassMSP Website CompassMSP LinkedIn Made in America Podcast Facebook Made in America Podcast LinkedIn Made in America Podcast YouTube Podcast produced by Miceli Productions.  

Host Benjamin Shapiro and guest Matthew McGrory, Co-founder and CEO of Arwen AI, debate a fundamental marketing dilemma: should brands prioritize customer engagement metrics or brand visibility KPIs on social media? Matthew champions engagement as the core purpose of social platforms, especially for B2B startups operating on tight budgets. Benjamin offers a nuanced take, noting that brand visibility is essential for early-stage companies seeking awareness before engagement can follow. Their conversation explores how factors like company size, growth stage, and B2B vs. B2C models influence strategy, while also touching on creative, low-cost visibility tactics—like branded sun hats at Cannes Lions—that can boost presence without breaking the bank.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Host Benjamin Shapiro and guest Matthew McGrory, Co-founder and CEO of Arwen AI, debate a fundamental marketing dilemma: should brands prioritize customer engagement metrics or brand visibility KPIs on social media? Matthew champions engagement as the core purpose of social platforms, especially for B2B startups operating on tight budgets. Benjamin offers a nuanced take, noting that brand visibility is essential for early-stage companies seeking awareness before engagement can follow. Their conversation explores how factors like company size, growth stage, and B2B vs. B2C models influence strategy, while also touching on creative, low-cost visibility tactics—like branded sun hats at Cannes Lions—that can boost presence without breaking the bank.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Struggling to find the time to personalize your sales messages while staying authentic and relevant? Gartner reports that 72% of all emails are unopened and we are going to help you get your emails opened. In this episode of the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI podcast, Donna Peterson shares how industrial sales teams can break through the noise using ChatGPT—not just to automate outreach, but to make it more human.At World Innovators, we've spent over 40 years helping industrial brands build real relationships. This episode shares one of the ways we're helping clients do that faster and more effectively—with empathy at the core.What You'll Learn:Why generic messaging is killing your sales momentumHow to use ChatGPT to quickly tailor emails for different buyer rolesPrompts that help uncover real industry pain points—fastHow to ensure your messaging shows authentic empathyReal-world examples of how sales reps transformed their outreach in minutesTimestamps:00:00 – Introduction: The chaos sales teams face01:02 – Why AI tools like ChatGPT are a game-changer01:49 – What makes a message resonate (and what falls flat)03:29 – How to prompt ChatGPT for personalized messaging05:24 – Researching your buyer's world—without wasting hours06:44 – The role of empathy in building real sales relationships10:26 – Real-world examples & quick applications21:47 – Wrap-up: A clear path forward for industrial sales teamsResources:Download the FREE worksheet: 5 Ways Brands Can Show Genuine EmpathyWatch the supporting videos: World Innovators YouTube Channel

In this episode of Builders Wanted, we sit down with Cole Moir, Vice President of Brand and Digital Marketing at TCL North America, to explore what it takes to create a standout brand in a crowded market. Tune in to hear about the methods behind creating high-impact, emotionally resonant brand experiences and the future role of AI and personalization in marketing.-------------------Key Takeaways:A focus on creating memorable and emotional moments for audiences builds a more meaningful connection with consumers and aligns with the brand's identity and values.Brands that leverage cultural moments to enhance their relevance and impact connect with audiences on a shared emotional and cultural ground.Clarity in messaging often wins over cleverness, especially in crowded markets, and leads to stronger trust and engagement among consumers.-------------------“ The key is to design brand experiences that respect attention, not demand it. In a world of infinite content, brands that break through are the ones that earn the moment by being useful or entertaining or emotionally resonant. We don't chase eyeballs, we chase impact.” – Cole Moir-------------------Episode Timestamps:‍*(02:08) - The boldest thing TCL is building right now‍*(06:08) - How Cole thinks about aligning brand moments with cultural ones ‍*(09:17) - How to design brand experiences without burning out your audience‍*(12:54) - How TCL stays fresh in a fast moving category‍*(21:54) - What Cole learned from campaigns early in his career‍*(28:28) - Quick hits: insight and inspiration-------------------Links:Connect with Cole on LinkedInConnect with Kailey on LinkedInLearn more about Caspian Studios-------------------SponsorBuilders Wanted is brought to you by Twilio – the Customer Engagement Platform that helps builders turn real-time data into meaningful customer experiences. More than 320,000 businesses trust Twilio to transform signals into connections—and connections into revenue. Ready to build what's next? Learn more at twilio.com.

In this episode of the Customer Success Pro Podcast, Anika Zubair emphasizes the importance of building genuine human relationships with customers. She discusses the challenges faced by Customer Success Managers in managing multiple accounts and the need to shift from transactional interactions to strategic partnerships. Anika outlines common mistakes CSMs make, such as only reaching out when they need something and failing to personalize communication. She introduces principles for building strong relationships, including being relevant, consistent, and human. The episode concludes with actionable challenges for listeners to enhance their customer relationships.Get your FREE QBR Revenue Guide: https://thecustomersuccesspro.com/resourcesGet on the VIP Waitlist for RevUP Academy: https://www.thecustomersuccesspro.com/revupChapters:00:00 Building Lasting Customer Relationships02:15 Customer Management in CS05:34 Myths in Customer Success10:10 Principles of Strategic Relationships15:44 Consistency Over Intensity19:34 The Human Element in Customer Success22:18 Actionable TakeawaysConnect with Anika Zubair: Website: https://thecustomersuccesspro.com/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikazubair/CSM RevUP Academy: https://thecustomersuccesspro.com/revupSend Anika a text :) Want to be our next guest? Apply here: https://www.thecustomersuccesspro.com/podcast-guest Podcast Editor: https://podcastmagician.com/

My guest today is Graham Weaver. My guest today is Graham Weaver. Graham is the founder of Alpine Investors, a large private equity firm targeting an interesting market inefficiency. Alpine focuses on the thousands of $20 million revenue businesses whose baby boomer owners want to retire, but lack succession plans. Alpine buys companies and installs 28-year-old military veterans and top MBA graduates as CEOs, leveraging 25 years of intellectual property on how young executives can successfully run established businesses. Alpine's CEO-in-training program is now the most applied-to job at Harvard, Stanford, and Kellogg business schools. We discuss the past, present and future of their unique approach. Please enjoy my conversation with Graham Weaver. For the full show notes, transcript, and links to mentioned content, check out the episode page⁠⁠ here.⁠⁠ ----- This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠ Ramp⁠⁠. Ramp's mission is to help companies manage their spend in a way that reduces expenses and frees up time for teams to work on more valuable projects. Go to⁠⁠ Ramp.com/invest⁠⁠ to sign up for free and get a $250 welcome bonus. –  This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠ AlphaSense⁠⁠. AlphaSense has completely transformed the research process with cutting-edge AI technology and a vast collection of top-tier, reliable business content. Invest Like the Best listeners can get a free trial now at⁠⁠ Alpha-Sense.com/Invest⁠⁠ and experience firsthand how AlphaSense and Tegus help you make smarter decisions faster. – This episode is brought to you by⁠⁠ Ridgeline⁠⁠. Ridgeline has built a complete, real-time, modern operating system for investment managers. It handles trading, portfolio management, compliance, customer reporting, and much more through an all-in-one real-time cloud platform. Head to⁠⁠ ridgelineapps.com⁠⁠ to learn more about the platform. ----- Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠⁠). Show Notes: (00:00:00) Welcome to Invest Like the Best (00:05:13) The Journey to Private Equity (00:06:59) Early Influences and Personal Growth (00:09:54) The Power of Wrestling and Rowing (00:11:45) Choosing Your Path and Making Decisions (00:14:48) College Goals and Rowing Success (00:18:05) Lessons from Early Business Ventures (00:26:24) Founding Alpine and Early Challenges (00:34:46) Core Beliefs and Talent Development (00:39:07) Fun Board Meetings and Team Dynamics (00:40:42) Platform Building 101 (00:44:08) Talent and Training Programs (00:49:12) Employee and Customer Engagement (00:52:27) Financial Outcomes and Asymmetric Returns (00:55:52) Incentivizing Young CEOs (01:00:26) The Role of Emotional Intelligence (01:02:45) The Alpine CEO in Training Program (01:03:40) Teaching at Stanford and Influential Mentors (01:07:58) Helping Students Find Their Passion (01:10:22) Visualizing Your Future Self (01:11:19) Scalability of Coaching (01:12:15) Personal Growth Through Teaching (01:16:16) The Role of Executive Coaching (01:24:45) Lessons from a Bad Deal (01:31:50) Daily Routines and Success (01:36:13) The Future of Private Equity (01:35:24) Unleashing Heroes at Alpine (01:38:09) The Journey of Building Alpine (01:41:31) The Kindest Thing Anyone Has Ever Done For Graham

Also on YouTube: https://youtu.be/fXKVcwl8FS8How a BOGO Deal Bootstrapped Neven Eyewear to MillionsJonathan Strauss lost a $500 pair of sunglasses jet skiing—and turned that wipeout into Neven Eyewear. What began as a desperate liquidation promo turned into a DTC breakthrough. In this episode, Strauss reveals how a buy-one-get-two offer saved his brand, what's changed with Meta ads, and why scaling a bootstrapped Shopify store takes more grit than cash.Learn:Why BOGO x3 worked when nothing else didHow Neven ships worldwide with no VC moneyThe backend tech powering their crazy offerWhat most brands get wrong about Meta adsSponsored by:Zipify – Build high-converting sales funnelsCleverific – Smart order editing for ShopifyAddress Validator – Reduce delivery address errors & costsLinks:Neven Eyewear → neveneyewear.comSight for Sound → neveneyewear.com/pages/sight-for-soundJudge.me Reviews → apps.shopify.com/judgemeGlasson 360 Viewer → apps.shopify.com/glassonShopify → shopify.com

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS  Recorded live at the Institute Summit, this insightful conversation explores how business leaders can apply sports principles—like team chemistry, leadership, and preparation—to enhance performance. Keynote speaker Ross Bernstein underscores the impact of storytelling as a powerful communication and trust building tool, sharing lessons from icons like Scotty Bowman and Jay Leno. The discussion reinforces the importance of having a solid business playbook grounded in strategy, data, and accountability, while also addressing the need to adapt to change, foster a culture of loyalty, leverage technology for growth, and prioritize meaningful personal connections and networking. A best-selling author of nearly 50 sports books, Ross Bernstein, is an award-winning peak performance business speaker who's keynoted conferences on all seven continents for audiences as small as 10 and as large as 10,000. Ross and his books have been featured on thousands of television and radio programs over the years, including CNN, ESPN, Bloomberg, Fox News, and “CBS This Morning,” as well as in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and USA Today. https://www.rossbernsteinspeaking.com/ Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode The Institute of Automotive Business Excellence: https://www.wearetheinstitute.com/ Introduction to the Episode (00:00:00) Importance of Storytelling (00:02:51) Jay Leno's Storytelling Practice (00:03:50) Team Chemistry in Sports (00:05:06) Scotty Bowman's Coaching Insights (00:06:29) Building Team Chemistry (00:08:00) Innovative Recruiting Strategies (00:08:47). The Power of the Playbook (00:12:17) Measuring Performance (00:13:06) Continual Improvement in Business (00:14:21) Ketchup Insights (00:15:45) Practicing What We Learn (00:20:02) Generational Workforce Changes (00:22:11) Creating Loyalty in Teams (00:22:55) Time Perception (00:23:10) Focus and Distractions (00:23:49) Engagement in Presentations (00:24:38) Struggle and Growth (00:27:26) Humility in Leadership (00:28:25) Client Experience Officer Concept (00:30:05) Philanthropy and Business Success (00:30:23) Gamification in Customer Engagement (00:32:36) Adapting to Change (00:35:14) Networking and Personal Connections (00:36:21) Legacy Business Lessons (00:37:08) Business Fundamentals (00:39:00) Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care, NAPA TRACS and Automotive Management Network Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://www.napaonline.com/en/auto-care NAPA TRACS will move your shop

In this episode of "Cocoon Conversations" on the Career Flipper podcast, I, Jenny Dempsey, take you along on my career journey.  This year, I've committed to opening up about my own career flip, just as I encourage my guests to do. So here we are, in May 2025, and I can hardly believe it's been four months since I started my current day job. It feels surreal to say that, especially considering I was laid off for two years before this.During this time, I've been balancing my full-time job with furniture restoration on the side, dedicating Sundays to it, and squeezing in podcasting and all the related tasks whenever I can. If that sounds overwhelming, it is! Life can be a juggling act, and I know I'm not alone in feeling this way. Scheduling time with friends often feels like a game of Tetris, as we all navigate our busy lives.I've always been the type of person who thrives on variety. I'm the one multitasking—doing laundry while putting away dishes, preparing to record a podcast, creating social media content for my furniture flipping page, and making sure my dog, Dwight, gets outside for a potty break. My brain has always thrived on this mix of activities, and I've been like this for as long as I can remember.Looking back, I've come to realize something significant. For a long time, I believed that work—capital W work—was my identity. I thought it was the only thing I was good at. I didn't believe in taking vacations; if I did, I'd bring my laptop along and continue working. I even had a panic attack in front of a customer service team I was managing because I was so consumed by my job. I poured everything into my work, only to learn the hard way that companies would replace me in an instant. When I was laid off and struggled to find a new job for two years, I was left questioning my identity. Who was I if I wasn't working?I dive into this and more in the episode! Thanks for listening to The Career Flipper!If you enjoyed this episode, let's spread the word! Share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps other career flippers find the show.Let's Stay Connected:Join the community: thecareerflipper.comTikTok: @thecareerflipperInstagram: @thecareerflipperpodGot a career flip story? I'd love to hear it—and maybe even have you on the podcast! Whether you've completed your flip, are just starting, or are in the thick of it, submit your story here: https://www.thecareerflipper.com Want to support the show?Looking for a speaker? I'd love to talk about career changes at your next event.Collaborate through sponsorships or affiliates! Let's work together.Email me: hello@thecareerflipper.comCheck Out My Customer Service CoursesBefore my career flip, I led customer experience teams and created online courses that have helped over 12,000 students worldwide. Whether you're switching to customer service or sharpening your skills to run your own business, these courses are packed with practical tips. Learn more at thecareerflipper.com/courses.Other Ways to Get Involved:Buy me a coffee!Explore my furniture flipsMusic CreditsSeason 1: Intro and outro music by audionautix.com. Season 2: Intro and outro original music by Jenny Dempsey, recorded in a home studio.What's the best that could happen?

Reinvention beats repetition every time. In a crowded market, it's reimagination that sets you apart.That's the real lesson behind The New Look, a drama that follows Christian Dior as he rebuilds a whole new vision of fashion. In this episode, we're taking inspiration from that spirit of transformation with the help of our special guest, Hrishi Kulkarni, Director of Customer Advocacy & Executive Programs at dbt Labs.Together, we explore what B2B marketers can learn from narrative-driven branding, thoughtful reinvention, and the power of showing up with both creativity and compassion.About our guest, Hrishi KulkarniHrishi Kulkarni leads customer advocacy and executive programs at dbt Labs. Previously, Hrishi served as Head of Customer Marketing & Executive Programs at New Relic. He has also worked at Salesforce in Customer Engagement and Marketing and QStream in Customer Success and Professional Services. Hrishi brings with him over 16 years of experience in customer engagement. He is also an equality champion, SF LGBT Center board member and founder of LGBTQ+ ERGs in India and Asia.What B2B Companies Can Learn From The New Look:Storytelling is your superpower. In The New Look, Christian Dior tells stories through his fashion. His work is infused with personal meaning, from tributes to his sister to inspiration from his mother. Hrishi says, “Marketing is all about storytelling. I joined marketing because I love storytelling… it emotionally connects your product and your services to your audience.” In B2B, storytelling isn't fluff, it's how you make people care. It's how you stand out. Don't just tell your audience what your product does, tell them why it matters.Innovation only works when it's authentic. Dior's most memorable move wasn't a massive runway spectacle; it was an intimate, unexpected fashion show that broke every rule. Hrishi explains, “He's not going to have a huge fashion show… He's going to create it in a very small space, a very personalized experience. Which never before any designer had done.” That decision wasn't flashy for the sake of it. It was deeply intentional. For B2B marketers, it's a reminder that innovation doesn't mean gimmicks. It means staying true to your values and finding fresh, genuine ways to express them.Repetition kills good content. Dior didn't copy what worked, he created what was next. Hrishi says, “As a customer marketer… we have to be creative in identifying and securing the right stories and then finding innovative ways to amplify those stories. If you keep amplifying different stories also in similar ways, at some point it is going to fall flat.” B2B marketers often default to the same formats: another case study, another quote, another video. But to keep your audience engaged, you have to rethink how you tell your stories, not just what stories you tell.Quotes*“ I love storytelling. It's because, if you think about it, storytelling truly impacts people's hearts and minds. It emotionally connects your product and your services to your audience. And that's exactly what Dior has done with his fashion. Like the perfume story you shared earlier, right? It's inspired by his sister. Like a lot of his design of his costumes, of his art, his all comes inspired from his mother. So he truly shows us how storytelling can drive the fashion industry. He started his fashion through the art of storytelling. Also thinking outside the box. If you saw the show, he's constantly innovating. He's constantly thinking outside the box. And as a customer marketer, you have to be constantly creative in identifying and securing the right stories and then finding innovative ways to amplify those stories. If you keep amplifying different stories also in similar ways, at some point it is going to fall flat. So it's always “how can I be innovative with these stories?” And then of course thought leadership, right? It's storytelling or thinking outside the box, being creative to showcase the thought leadership of your customers, their brand.”*“ In terms of B2B, customers love to hear how other customers are doing, how they're using your platform. .And I always say that what makes a kickass story is it has to be data driven and there has to be some human element to it. And now that's your recipe of a powerful story. ”*“ In a B2B world, we create all these customer stories, but what's our end goal? Our end goal is how are my sales teams, my how are my account executives going to leverage this story with other prospects, with other customers. So truly thinking that buyer journey, how are your different stories going to influence every stage in that buyer journey?”*“ Being authentic is so important in marketing. That is something we learned from The New Look. Be authentic in what you do. The passion comes across genuinely. It comes across easily. It's very evident. Be innovative. Don't be afraid to take risks.”Time Stamps[0:55] Meet Hrishi Kulkarni, Customer Advocacy & Executive Programs Lead at dbt Labs[01:10] Why The New Look?[04:19] Customer Advocacy & Executive Programs at dbt Labs[06:54] Origins of The New Look[11:54] B2B Marketing Takeaways from The New Look[24:57] Building a Strong Content Strategy[27:53] Measuring ROI in Customer Marketing[32:08] dbt Labs Executive Sponsorship Program[34:12] Advice for Marketing LeadersLinksConnect with Hrishi on LinkedInLearn more about dbt LabsAbout Remarkable!Remarkable! is created by the team at Caspian Studios, the premier B2B Podcast-as-a-Service company. Caspian creates both nonfiction and fiction series for B2B companies. If you want a fiction series check out our new offering - The Business Thriller - Hollywood style storytelling for B2B. Learn more at CaspianStudios.com. In today's episode, you heard from Ian Faison (CEO of Caspian Studios) and Meredith Gooderham (Head of Production). Remarkable was produced this week by Jess Avellino, mixed by Scott Goodrich, and our theme song is “Solomon” by FALAK. Create something remarkable. Rise above the noise.

Host Jeremy C. Park talks with Dr. Joseph A. Michelli, an internationally sought-after speaker, bestselling author, and organizational consultant who highlights his new book, "All Business Is Personal: One Medical's Human-Centered, Technology-Powered Approach to Customer Engagement." The book currently is available for pre-purchase with a release date of May 13, 2025 by BenBella Books.Dr. Michelli is a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Publishers Weekly, Nielson BookScan, and New York Times #1 bestselling author. Some of his other books include "Stronger Through Adversity: World-Class Leaders Share Pandemic-Tested Lessons on ThrivingDuring the Toughest Challenges," "The Airbnb Way: 5 Leadership Lessons for Igniting Growth through Loyalty, Community, and Belonging," "Driven to Delight: Delivering World-Class Customer Experience the Mercedes-Benz Way," "Leading The Starbucks Way: 5 Principles for Connecting with Your Customer, Your Products, and Your People," and "The New Gold Standard: 5 Leadership Principles for Creating a Legendary Customer Experience Courtesy of The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company." During the interview, Dr. Michelli shares his background as a consultant, focusing on delivering greater experiences for team members and customers, and how his work with One Medical led to the book. He discusses the evolution of healthcare technology, highlighting the role of Dr. Tom Lee, founder of One Medical, in developing a technology that enabled same-day appointments and improved patient experience. He emphasizes the importance of balancing technology with human interaction to enhance customer experience and drive efficiencies, and shares some examples from the book that have broad applications for all businesses and industries. Joseph emphasizes the need for technology to empower humans and not replace them, and carries that into some of the key takeaways for readers. He concludes by stressing the importance of safeguarding the soul of a brand amidst technological advancements.Visit https://www.josephmichelli.com to follow Dr. Joseph Michelli and order "All Business Is Personal: One Medical's Human-Centered, Technology-Powered Approach to Customer Engagement" on Amazon or your preferred online or local bookstore.

Molly Sperlich is a passionate storyteller and communications professional with a strong foundation in journalism and media. A graduate of the University of South Dakota, she holds degrees in Media & Journalism and English. Molly has honed her skills through roles such as Digital Editor and Anchor for Coyote News, as well as a writing internship with 605 Magazine. Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud and Hootsuite-certified in social media marketing, she combines creativity with technical expertise to craft compelling content across various platforms.​ Website: https://propertymeld.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-sperlich-best-a324311b0/   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/propertymeld/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/propertymeld    Bryan Nowlan is a dedicated marketing professional with over eight years of experience, including more than six years specializing in Web3 marketing. Since entering the cryptocurrency space in 2016, he has developed a deep passion for innovation and creating impactful marketing strategies in this fast-paced industry. His expertise spans social media, content creation, event management, email marketing, growth strategies, and website development. A Bentley University graduate, Bryan is known for his strong work ethic and commitment to staying ahead of emerging trends—both in marketing and the Web3 space. Website: https://horizenlabs.io LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-nowlan-6a213091/    In this episode, we dive into how modern marketers can adapt to evolving landscapes using both traditional and cutting-edge techniques.    Apply to join our marketing mastermind group: https://notypicalmoments.typeform.com/to/hWLDNgjz   Follow No Typical Moments at: Website: https://notypicalmoments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/no-typical-moments-llc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4G7csw9j7zpjdASvpMzqUA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notypicalmoments Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NTMoments

When Technological Innovation Meets Human-Centered Experience   Shep interviews Joseph A. Michelli, professor of Service Excellence, speaker, organizational consultant, and best-selling author. He talks about his new book, All Business Is Personal, and how companies can blend technology with humanity to create personal connections and improve customer experiences. The case study Michelli uses throughout the book is One Medical, a perfect example of how to achieve the balance between technology and the human-to-human connections you want to make with your customers.   This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more:    What are the benefits of combining technology with personal interaction in customer service?  What role does listening play in improving the customer experience?  How important is it for businesses to include digital and human touchpoints in customer interactions?  How does a seamless digital experience impact customer satisfaction and loyalty?  Why is emotional connection important in business?    Top Takeaways:    Technology, like apps and AI, makes life convenient for customers by allowing easy online scheduling or instant answers through chatbots. However, it is still the human connection that builds lasting relationships. The best businesses use tech to make things faster and simpler but always offer a human backup for when a customer needs a personal touch.  So many businesses continue to operate the same way because "that's how it's always been done." It is important to constantly ask why things are done a certain way and whether there's a better, more modern, or easier approach for customers.   Delivering a great customer experience is not just about satisfying customer needs. It's the best marketing a company can have.   People remember how you made them feel long after the transaction is over. Creating an emotional connection with your customers can transform a routine interaction into a memorable experience. Creating positive emotions through empathy, excitement, or delight builds loyalty and motivates customers to refer you to others.  Use Net Promoter Score as a guideline, not a vanity metric. While a high Net Promoter Score (NPS) can indicate customer satisfaction, the actual behavior of customers and the genuine referrals they make is what counts.   Train your employees to listen to what customers say, not just hear their words. Many businesses train their staff to communicate, but few teach them to listen deeply and with empathy. Listening well helps you understand how your product and services impact the customer's life and what it means to them.  Wow moments are not always over-the-top experiences. Going slightly beyond what's expected can create a big impact on customers. Small gestures such as remembering a customer's name or a personal preference can elevate a service experience from just fine to amazing.  Plus, Joseph shares how One Medical transformed healthcare by blending technology with personal service, creating a more convenient and customer-focused experience. Tune in!  Quote:   "There's a difference between personalization and a personal connection.”    About:    Joseph Michelli is a speaker and consultant renowned for his customer experience and leadership expertise. He has worked with global brands like  Starbucks, Mercedes-Benz, and The Ritz-Carlton Hotel. His latest book, All Business Is Personal: One Medical's Human-Centered, Technology-Powered Approach to Customer Engagement, is now available on Amazon.     Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and host of Amazing Business Radio.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Spamageddon, hosts Jay Schwedelson, Danielle Gallant, and Guy Hanson debate whether swapping email-sending platforms will magically solve deliverability woes—or if bad practices simply follow you.

In this conversation, Mike Barnhart, COO and CFO of Eco Plumbers, discusses the essential role of hope in leadership, financial growth strategies, and the importance of curiosity in business. The discussion also covers customer retention through membership models, the importance of incentive plans, and effective budgeting practices. Additionally, Tommy and Mike delve into team development, the use of technology for efficiency, and managing expenses for profitability. The conversation also highlights the role of technology in improving sales processes and the necessity of effective recruitment and training to build a strong workforce.    Don't forget to register for Tommy's event, Freedom 2025! This is the event where Tommy's billion-dollar network will break down exactly how to accelerate your business and dominate your market in 2025.   For more details visit freedomevent.com   00:00 The Role of Hope in Leadership 01:43 Introduction to Mike Barnhart and Eco Plumbers 02:11 Financial Growth and Strategic Planning 03:00 Greenfield vs. M&A Strategies 06:55 The Importance of Curiosity in Business 08:41 Leveraging AI for Financial Insights 10:54 Rebranding and Expanding Services 12:20 Marketing Strategies and Storytelling 15:13 Navigating Economic Challenges 16:40 Membership Models and Customer Retention 19:51 Incentive Plans and Employee Engagement 20:57 Key Performance Indicators in Business 23:06 Budgeting and Financial Planning 26:10 Top Grading and Team Development 28:55 Utilizing Technology for Efficiency 30:43 Revenue per Employee and Operational Efficiency 32:42 Managing Expenses and Profitability 36:13 Navigating Pricing Strategies for Profitability 39:20 The Importance of Reviews and Conversion Rates 41:20 Sales Techniques and Customer Engagement 46:09 Leveraging Technology for Improved Sales 51:05 Recruitment and Training for Success 55:07 Building Relationships and Networking 01:00:59 Work-Life Balance and Purpose in Business  

In this first episode of Spamageddon—a five‑part crossover between Email After Hours and Do This, Not That—hosts Jay Schwedelson, Guy Hanson, and Danielle Gallant tackle the biggest myths in email deliverability while keeping things lively with a rapid‑fire “You Have Ten Seconds” game.