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A blackout that left one-third of San Francisco customers without power – some up to three days – was one of six outages that plagued PG&E throughout the holidays. Disabled Waymos blocked streets. The Nutcracker was cancelled. Restaurants and businesses were closed. Customers and politicians are demanding answers and calling for the end of PG&E's monopoly. We'll talk about the blackout and what it can tell us about the reliability of our power sources and Waymo's vulnerabilities, and we'll hear how it affected you. Guests: Joe Eskenazi, managing editor and columnist, Mission Local Jeffrey Tumlin, former Director of Transportation, San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) Brad Templeton, entrepreneur, writer; Templeton is the chairman emeritus of the Electronic Frontier Foundation and previously worked at Waymo Bilal Mahmood, supervisor, District 5, Board of Supervisors San Francisco Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Our analysts (or “bakers”) will compete in a Great British Bake Off–style episode, discussing how the digital shelf for ecommerce will adapt to speak to AI audiences and how retailers will counter AI's rise by connecting with customers IRL. Listen to the discussion with Vice President of Content and host Suzy Davidkhanian, Principal Analyst Sky Canaves, and Senior Analyst Blake Droesch. Subscribe to EMARKETER's newsletters. Go to https://www.emarketer.com/newsletters Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/ For sponsorship opportunities contact us: advertising@emarketer.com For more information visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/ Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com For a transcript of this episode click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-reimagining-retail-trends-2026-how-ai-will-change-digital-shelf-irl-customers-interactions © 2026 EMARKETER
Most entrepreneurs think branding is a logo and a website. They're wrong. Patrick Hanlon, author of Primal Branding, breaks down the actual framework for building brands that create communities of fanatics—not just customers who'll ghost you for the next competitor. This is the 20th anniversary of Primal Branding, and the framework is more relevant today than when it was first published in 2006. We dig into the seven pieces of primal code, why having haters is actually essential to your brand, and how AI amplifies (but can't replace) human creativity in branding. If you're building something and want people who defend your brand instead of just buying from you, this conversation gives you the exact system. Explore Patrick's book here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1451655312
Artificial intelligence adoption is accelerating without formal ownership as employees, customers, and patients integrate AI tools into daily decisions. Surveys from Gallup show 45% of U.S. employees use AI at work at least occasionally, while research cited by OpenAI indicates roughly 60% of American adults recently used AI for health-related questions. Zoho and Arion Research report that 41% of organizations have strengthened privacy measures after adopting AI, reflecting growing concern about data exposure and accountability. For MSPs, the shift places liability closer to the systems being used rather than the vendors supplying them.Trust in digital media is also eroding as AI-generated content becomes harder to distinguish from authentic material. Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri states that assuming photos or videos reflect real events is no longer reliable and suggests verification at the point of capture rather than labeling generated content. This approach reframes trust as a technical system rather than a social assumption. For IT providers, the issue extends beyond social platforms to security footage, compliance evidence, training data, and any asset where authenticity must be demonstrated.At the same time, automation and AI training are converging on the same constraint: expert judgment. HireArt's 2025 AI Trainer Compensation Report shows subject-matter experts earning $60 to more than $180 per hour, compared with under $20 for generalist data labelers, reflecting the cost of errors in regulated or technical fields. Kaseya's 2025 EMEA MSP Benchmark Report finds that while nearly 75% of MSPs expect revenue growth, 45% face staffing and skills shortages, increasing reliance on automation built on accurate data and curated exceptions.Major vendors are embedding judgment directly into platforms. ServiceNow's planned $7.75 billion acquisition of Armis expands asset classification and risk scoring within workflows. Freshworks' acquisition of FireHydrant integrates AI-driven incident management into ITSM. Google Cloud's revamped Partner Network shifts incentives toward outcome-based tiers beginning in 2026. For MSPs and IT service leaders, these moves concentrate responsibility around interpretation, governance, and accountability, even as tools increasingly define risk and success.Four things to know today00:00 Surveys Show AI Adoption Is Happening Without Ownership as Employees, Customers, and Patients Lead Usage04:50 Instagram's CEO Says Trust Is No Longer Assumed as AI Forces Proof-of-Reality Models07:22 AI and MSP Automation Are Converging on the Same Bottleneck: Expert Judgment09:52 Vendors Shift From Tools to Judgement as ServiceNow, Freshworks, and Google Cloud Embed Risk, Incidents, and Outcomes This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://scalepad.com/dave/
For our final episode in the Holiday Series we are returning to our chat about creating a brand made for loyal customers. Klein Tools has been manufacturing tools made for trades people for over 165 years. In today's episode, we sat down with Greg Palese, Vice President of Marketing at Klein Tools, to discuss how they continue to grow engaged customer relationships. By speaking directly with end users, Klein Tools is able to deepen relationships and increase sales. Even more, Greg discusses how they focus on solving end user problems by visiting job sites to see first-hand how Klein Tools can help their customers.
Join the conversation with C4 & Bryan Nehman. C4 & Bryan started the show this morning discussing the interview TJ Smith had with Betsy Fox Tolentino. Maduro had his first appearance in a New York courtroom yesterday. A recap of the crime presser with the mayor, Ivan Bates & more public figures. Veronica McClure of Exelon joined the show discussing energy in MD. Wegmans stores using biometric scans on customers in its stores. City Councilman Zach Blanchard also joined the show discussing crime. Rod Woodson wrapped up the Ravens season as well. Listen to C4 & Bryan Nehman live weekdays from 5:30 to 10am on WBAL News Radio 1090, FM 101.5 & the WBAL Radio App!
Josh and John kick off the year with a challenge: stop making things so hard for your customers. From clunky logins to vendor excuses to template-filled sites, they unpack how complexity kills conversions, and why 2026 should be the year marketers fight for simplicity. The post Episode 202 | 2026 Resolution: Don't Make Customers Regret Clicking !! appeared first on Marketing Money Podcast.
How do you save a startup when growth flatlines? Itai Sadan, co-founder of Duda, reveals the two critical pivots that saved his company: shifting from mobile-only to responsive design, and the controversial decision to ignore 50% of his customers (small businesses) to focus entirely on agencies. In this interview, Itai explains why AI is the new SEO, how to optimize your website for ChatGPT search, and why the combination of AI and human creativity is the future of web design. He also shares the hard truth about competing with giants like Wix and WordPress and why founders must sometimes make painful decisions to survive. Check out the company: https://duda.co
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kevin Cohee. Purpose of the Interview The interview aimed to: Highlight OneUnited Bank’s mission as the largest Black-owned and first Black-owned internet bank in America. Educate listeners on financial literacy, technology-driven banking, and economic empowerment in underserved communities. Promote OneUnited Bank’s products and services as solutions for financial challenges faced by Black Americans and others lacking access to traditional banking. Key Takeaways Historical Context & Mission The concept of a national Black-owned bank dates back to leaders like Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Martin Luther King Jr., who emphasized economic empowerment. OneUnited Bank was formed through acquisitions and later pivoted to technology-driven banking. Technology & Innovation OneUnited embraced AI and data aggregation over a decade ago to create products that help customers understand assets, liabilities, and net worth in real time. Banking has shifted from physical branches to digital platforms, enabling nationwide access. Financial Literacy Crisis 90% of Americans lack financial literacy, largely because it’s not taught in schools. Cohee advocates for mandatory K–12 financial literacy education, citing studies showing it can add $126,000 to lifetime net worth. Products Designed for Real Needs CashPlease: Short-term emergency loans at affordable rates. Second Chance Checking: Helps rebuild credit. Savings Programs: Often in collaboration with employers. These products address real-life challenges like low emergency savings and predatory check-cashing fees. Accessibility & Reach OneUnited offers nationwide banking via oneunited.com, surcharge-free ATMs, and partnerships with major networks. Customers can deposit checks online and access services without visiting physical branches. Economic Empowerment Technology enables entrepreneurship without owning physical products—leveraging branding and e-commerce. Cohee draws parallels between today’s tech opportunities and the historical wealth-building of Black Wall Street. Notable Quotes “We are FDIC insured, commercial bank like them. The only difference is we’re smarter and we have better technology.” “Technology and AI allow anyone to make decisions like they were an expert.” “If we taught financial literacy in schools, it would create over $100,000 in net worth per person over their lifetime.” “You don’t have to go to check cashers and get ripped off. Just go to oneunited.com.” “We’ve been working on AI for over a decade. We’re not coming to the party—we are the party.” “Our generation has technology and communication skills. We can change society.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kevin Cohee. Purpose of the Interview The interview aimed to: Highlight OneUnited Bank’s mission as the largest Black-owned and first Black-owned internet bank in America. Educate listeners on financial literacy, technology-driven banking, and economic empowerment in underserved communities. Promote OneUnited Bank’s products and services as solutions for financial challenges faced by Black Americans and others lacking access to traditional banking. Key Takeaways Historical Context & Mission The concept of a national Black-owned bank dates back to leaders like Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Martin Luther King Jr., who emphasized economic empowerment. OneUnited Bank was formed through acquisitions and later pivoted to technology-driven banking. Technology & Innovation OneUnited embraced AI and data aggregation over a decade ago to create products that help customers understand assets, liabilities, and net worth in real time. Banking has shifted from physical branches to digital platforms, enabling nationwide access. Financial Literacy Crisis 90% of Americans lack financial literacy, largely because it’s not taught in schools. Cohee advocates for mandatory K–12 financial literacy education, citing studies showing it can add $126,000 to lifetime net worth. Products Designed for Real Needs CashPlease: Short-term emergency loans at affordable rates. Second Chance Checking: Helps rebuild credit. Savings Programs: Often in collaboration with employers. These products address real-life challenges like low emergency savings and predatory check-cashing fees. Accessibility & Reach OneUnited offers nationwide banking via oneunited.com, surcharge-free ATMs, and partnerships with major networks. Customers can deposit checks online and access services without visiting physical branches. Economic Empowerment Technology enables entrepreneurship without owning physical products—leveraging branding and e-commerce. Cohee draws parallels between today’s tech opportunities and the historical wealth-building of Black Wall Street. Notable Quotes “We are FDIC insured, commercial bank like them. The only difference is we’re smarter and we have better technology.” “Technology and AI allow anyone to make decisions like they were an expert.” “If we taught financial literacy in schools, it would create over $100,000 in net worth per person over their lifetime.” “You don’t have to go to check cashers and get ripped off. Just go to oneunited.com.” “We’ve been working on AI for over a decade. We’re not coming to the party—we are the party.” “Our generation has technology and communication skills. We can change society.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Kevin Cohee. Purpose of the Interview The interview aimed to: Highlight OneUnited Bank’s mission as the largest Black-owned and first Black-owned internet bank in America. Educate listeners on financial literacy, technology-driven banking, and economic empowerment in underserved communities. Promote OneUnited Bank’s products and services as solutions for financial challenges faced by Black Americans and others lacking access to traditional banking. Key Takeaways Historical Context & Mission The concept of a national Black-owned bank dates back to leaders like Booker T. Washington, W.E.B. Du Bois, and Martin Luther King Jr., who emphasized economic empowerment. OneUnited Bank was formed through acquisitions and later pivoted to technology-driven banking. Technology & Innovation OneUnited embraced AI and data aggregation over a decade ago to create products that help customers understand assets, liabilities, and net worth in real time. Banking has shifted from physical branches to digital platforms, enabling nationwide access. Financial Literacy Crisis 90% of Americans lack financial literacy, largely because it’s not taught in schools. Cohee advocates for mandatory K–12 financial literacy education, citing studies showing it can add $126,000 to lifetime net worth. Products Designed for Real Needs CashPlease: Short-term emergency loans at affordable rates. Second Chance Checking: Helps rebuild credit. Savings Programs: Often in collaboration with employers. These products address real-life challenges like low emergency savings and predatory check-cashing fees. Accessibility & Reach OneUnited offers nationwide banking via oneunited.com, surcharge-free ATMs, and partnerships with major networks. Customers can deposit checks online and access services without visiting physical branches. Economic Empowerment Technology enables entrepreneurship without owning physical products—leveraging branding and e-commerce. Cohee draws parallels between today’s tech opportunities and the historical wealth-building of Black Wall Street. Notable Quotes “We are FDIC insured, commercial bank like them. The only difference is we’re smarter and we have better technology.” “Technology and AI allow anyone to make decisions like they were an expert.” “If we taught financial literacy in schools, it would create over $100,000 in net worth per person over their lifetime.” “You don’t have to go to check cashers and get ripped off. Just go to oneunited.com.” “We’ve been working on AI for over a decade. We’re not coming to the party—we are the party.” “Our generation has technology and communication skills. We can change society.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Welcome to Rhee Gold’s Dance Life Podcast, hosted by Stacey Morgan and joined by the fabulous (and very “rugged up”) Rhee Gold—broadcasting from a freezing North Carolina cold snap that has him bundled up and learning new Aussie vocabulary fast. In this practical and timely episode, Stacey and Rhee dive into one of the biggest make-or-break skills for dance studio owners: clear communication. They unpack why miscommunication happens so easily—especially when you’re busy, juggling timetables, rehearsals, one-on-ones, and parent expectations—and how “dance language” can accidentally leave families confused. Stacey shares a real studio example of a small timetable change that created big frustration, and how she handled it: owning the mistake, apologising, and then following up about respectful behaviour and boundaries. Rhee opens up about a recent moment where his intention didn’t land the way he meant it to—and why sometimes the best path forward is a sincere apology rather than defending or over-explaining. Together, they explore the reality of 2025 customer expectations: parents are busy, life is full, and confusion creates cranky customers—even when you’ve communicated multiple times. You’ll also hear: Why an apology isn’t always “enough” when a parent has a backlog of unresolved grievances How creating structured feedback pathways can prevent blow-ups later Why studio communication must be multi-channel (email, socials, newsletters, in-hand notes, reminders… all of it) When using ChatGPT can help remove emotion from tough emails—while still keeping your voice How the post-pandemic world has gotten even busier, and why that impacts both studio owners and families A reminder that personal growth is part of entrepreneurship—and learning communication is part of the journey This episode is your encouragement (and your challenge) to build communication systems that are robust, consistent, and two-way—so you can reduce misunderstandings, protect your team, and keep your studio culture strong. Because when communication improves, stress reduces… and everyone gets to enjoy the journey.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Boss Your Business: The Pet Boss Podcast with Candace D'Agnolo
Welcome to 2026 and a brand new season of the Pet Boss Podcast! After four solid years and 216 episodes, Season 5 is here with a brand new intro and a clear mission: build what lasts. Because if you've been in the pet industry for any amount of time, you know last year felt HARD. There was a lot of retracting, pulling back, and retreating. Costs got higher. Hiring felt heavier. Customers became more cautious. And the energy it takes to run a pet business right now? Intense. But here's the thing: the pet industry is still growing. Pet spending in the US is now well over $140 billion annually. People aren't walking away from their pets - they're just becoming more selective about how, where, and with whom they spend. So we as business owners have to become more strategic, more intentional, and better at running the actual business side of things. She shares:
Discover how Radical AI is revolutionizing material science using self-driving labs.About the episode:Nataraj hosts Joseph Krause, CEO of Radical AI, to explore how they're speeding up material R&D by combining AI, engineering, and robotics. Joseph shares his journey from material science to venture capital, highlighting Radical AI's mission to create a self-driving lab that autonomously designs tests and discovers new materials. The episode dives into Radical AI's materials flywheel concept, their open-source engine, and how they're attracting funding to drive innovation in material science. Discover how Radical AI is set to revolutionize industries from aerospace to energy with cutting-edge material discovery.What you'll learnUnderstand the traditional challenges hindering the commercialization of new materials and how Radical AI is overcoming them.Discover the materials flywheel concept and how it accelerates the speed of material discovery.Learn about the types of customers who are seeking new materials and the diverse applications across various industries.Explore the role of AI in simulating and experimenting with materials, and the importance of experimental validation.Understand the types of AI models Radical AI uses, including machine learning, generative AI, and computer vision.Identify Radical AI's hiring strategy to build an interdisciplinary team across machine learning, software engineering, robotics, and material science.Comprehend the importance of experimental data in materials science and how self-driving labs capture and utilize this data.Learn about Radical AI's stepwise approach to focus on customer-driven problems and enabling technologies.About the Guest and Host:Guest Name: Joseph Krause, Co-founder and CEO of Radical AI, aiming to revolutionize material science with AI, engineering, and robotics.Connect with Guest: → LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephfkrause→ Website: https://www.radical-ai.com/Nataraj: Host of the Startup Project podcast, Senior PM at Azure & Investor. → LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natarajsindam/ → Substack: https://startupproject.substack.com/In this episode, we cover (00:01) Introduction to Radical AI and Joseph Krause(01:15) Joseph's diverse background and how it led to Radical AI(05:01) Traditional ways preventing commercialization of new materials (09:06) Radical AI's product: novel materials for aerospace, defense, and energy(11:36) Customers seeking new materials and the advantage of speed in the materials flywheel(13:39) Challenges in digital research and the importance of physical experimentation(16:18) How Radical AI picks directions for new material discovery(23:48) The AI part of Radical AI: hiring and AI models used(27:13) Predicting crystal structures with AI(31:57) Why New York is the best place for Radical AI(33:37) Joseph's best AI use case for personal research(37:35) Material research happening at AppleDon't forget to subscribe and leave us a review/comment on YouTube Apple Spotify or wherever you listen to podcasts.#RadicalAI #AI #MaterialScience #Robotics #DeepTech #Innovation #VentureCapital #Aerospace #Defense #Energy #NewMaterials #SelfDrivingLabs #MachineLearning #GenerativeAI #OpenSource #Podcast #Startup #Technology #Research #NVIDIA
Not all customers are created equal—and treating them as if they are is one of the most common and costly mistakes organizations make. Companies often pride themselves on "great service for everyone," yet fail to recognize that limited resources require intentional allocation. Consider how you might categorize your companies service philosophy as Scott and I discuss The Value of Ranking Your Customers and other terrific tidbits on Episode 701 of the Winning at Selling podcast. Johnny Franchise - https://www.johnnyfranchise.com Book: Great Leaders Make Sure Monday Morning Doesn't Suck: https://www.amazon.com/Great-Leaders-Monday-Morning-Doesnt/dp/B0B8F7W838/ref=sr_1_1 Eric Harkins - https://ericharkins.com/ Keystone Club Class - https://mnsales.com/keystone/ Offerings Page - https://mnsales.com/offers Bill Hellkamp – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: http://www.reachdev.com/ Scott "Professor Plum" Plum – See my LinkedIn profile and send me an invite Visit my website: https://www.mnsales.com
We'd love to have your feedback and ideas for future episodes of Retail Unwrapped. Just text us!Here's an interesting fact: 1.6 million tradespeople trust their friends over impersonal brands. And here's why: Most workwear brands claim they understand their customers, but they're designing products by committee in the boardroom and based on their P/L. Join Shelley and Eric Gerard who discuss how he built his BRUNT Workwear brand with the people who actually wear the work gear. They reveal how BRUNT was launched by childhood friends brought up in a blue-collar manufacturing town. Unlike Eric and his colleagues, the workwear industry has forgotten who it serves and would be better served by paying attention to what happens when customers help design their own products. BRUNT eliminated PFAS from water-resistant fabrics before regulations required it, positioning the brand ahead of market demands while legacy competitors are still scrambling to reformulate. BRUNT stays close to its customers, outfitting the New England Patriots field crew this season, partnering with unique talent like Diesel Dave who tricks out trucks and professional motocross athlete Travis Pastrana. It's also a mainstay in rally racing, NASCAR, and automotive stunt performance. BRUNT's Bucket Talk is “a monthly podcast that takes listeners across America to meet the “most badass tradespeople, industry leaders and personalities.” Growing from an initial 110 stores to 858 doors nationwide while maintaining its brand integrity proves that authentic products are relevant and can scale when you understand your local communities and customers. Guest: Eric Girouard, Founder + CEO at BRUNT WorkwearFor more strategic insights and compelling content, visit TheRobinReport.com, where you can read, watch, and listen to content from Robin Lewis and other retail industry experts, and be sure to follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Today's show features a best of roundup from our first year of Daily Dealer Live: Brian Benstock, VP/GM @ Paragon Honda & Acura Doug Horner, General Sales Manager at Mercedes-Benz of North Olmsted Grant Cardone, CEO of Cardone Capital + more! This episode is brought to you by: Impel – Impel's Service AI with Voice AI changes that with proactive, VIN-specific outreach based on individual driving behavior, missed call capture, and instant appointment scheduling by text and email. Advisors stay focused on the drive. Customers get fast, personalized service. One complete platform. No missed moments. No missed revenue. Visit https://carguymedia.com/4pXVx0x to learn more. Car Dealership Guy is back with our second annual NADA Party—happening in Las Vegas on Thursday, February 5th. It's the hottest ticket at NADA 2026. Spots are limited and unfortunately we can't invite everyone —so RSVP today at https://carguymedia.com/cdglive and we hope to see you in Vegas! — Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Pool Pros text questions hereIn the conclusion of Natalie Hood's conversation with Ryan Walker, the focus shifts from “selling pool stuff” to selling outcomes: experience, lifestyle, confidence, and trust. This episode pulls the curtain back on what's really happening in today's retail and builder sales environment—homeowners aren't shopping locally anymore. They're shopping globally through TikTok, Instagram, and Pinterest, then walking into your store or your design meeting with Dubai-level expectations and a Michigan budget… and they still want you to make it real.Ryan breaks down why dealers and retailers can't win by being defensive, dismissive, or stuck in “this is how we've always done it.” Instead, the winning move is customer-centric discovery: show what's possible, guide the customer through tradeoffs, and give them a solution—not a shutdown. Along the way, the conversation hits pricing psychology, upselling ethically, supplier partnerships, training your staff in the off-season, and why one bad review can punch harder than ten great ones.What This Episode CoversSelling the vision, not just the pool Homeowners aren't buying “a body of water.” They're buying backyard life that replaces travel, replaces entertainment, and becomes the family experience hub. Pools (and even above-ground setups) have evolved into full environments—decks, lighting, wellness add-ons, the whole vibe.Why “cheap” isn't the conversation anymore With pool projects regularly crossing the $100K mark, obsessing over saving $50–$200 can be meaningless against the total investment (and the loan). The real job is to help the buyer spend smarter, not just spend less.Social media has changed the customer's brain Customers aren't looking at “what sells in this zip code.” They're looking at what looks insane on a reel. Dealers who don't adapt to global inspiration trends risk sounding outdated or dismissive—and that's how you lose the room (and the sale).Dealers must stop taking trends personally If a customer brings you an idea that's unrealistic or “not right for your market,” the answer isn't a slammed door. The answer is:explain why it's hard,explain what it would require,and offer an alternative solution that gets the same feeling with fewer headaches.How to upsell without being gross Ryan points out that strong sales isn't pressure—it's clarity. Customers want you to guide them. If you can retain attention, build trust, and connect features to outcomes, you can justify premium choices without acting like a carnival barker.Heat pump myth-busting (yes, even in cold markets) The episode calls out the “heat pumps don't work here” mindset and reframes it: heat pumps work in Canada, and Canada is colder than Michigan. Translation: the barrier isn't physics—it's explanation and expectation-setting.Supplier relationships: stop waiting to be visited Reps cover huge territories and get flooded with requests. If you want training, product support, or attention—ask for it. Call. Get the rep's number from the distributor. The hungriest dealers get the most support because they create the reason to show up.Off-season is training season Retail's biggest killer: bad reviews Training staff f Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
Productive Not Busy- Do Life and Business Confident Focused and with a Plan
The best leaders don't lead with authority alone. They lead with heart, curiosity, and let's be honest. They actually give a damn. Leadership isn't about a position or a title. It's about influence. And the most powerful influence you'll ever have is the culture you create through how you treat your people. Here's the truth. Many leaders overlook your customers are treated exactly the way your employees feel treated!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/productive-not-busy-podcast--6261465/support. Subscribe today and join a community that's growing stronger every week. The Productive NOT Busy Podcast isn't just a show—it's your playbook for creating momentum, building confidence, and living life on purpose.
Why Brand Can Make or Break Family Business Succession & Legacy In Episode 124 of The Family Biz Show, host Michael Palumbos welcomes back Megan Lynch of Six Point Strategy for a wide-ranging conversation that connects branding, trust, and reputation to the real drivers of Family business succession, Family business leadership, and long-term enterprise value. What makes this episode especially powerful is that Megan isn't approaching brand as "marketing"—she approaches it as an essential part of family business strategy, Legacy planning, and Business continuity for families. Megan shares how her firm originally focused on creative branding work, but as she stepped deeper into the family enterprise space—and became more intentional about Passing on the family business within her own journey—she recognized a key truth: family businesses operate under dynamics that traditional corporate strategy often fails to address. This is why working with a skilled Family Business Advisor or Family Business Consultant matters so much. Without the right lens, even "good ideas" can create harm, confusion, or conflict, especially during family business continuity planning. A Next-Gen Journey Into Family Enterprise Complexity Megan explains that as she started thinking about the future of Six Point Strategy and the transition of leadership, she joined a family business center for succession support. What she discovered quickly was that Family business succession isn't just a transaction or a timeline—it's emotional, relational, and deeply tied to identity. That's where the biggest insight comes in: family enterprises don't live in a vacuum. Ownership, management, and family relationships intersect constantly. So when a Family Business Consultant or Family Business Advisor recommends a new strategy or brand shift without understanding those intersections, it can destabilize trust, trigger resistance, and disrupt Business continuity for families. This is exactly why Megan describes family business work as a discipline—one that requires education, humility, and collaboration. She highlights that a financial advisor for family business or a family business wealth management advisor may be working on governance, capital, or transition planning at the same time that marketing or brand conversations are unfolding. If those advisors aren't aligned, the business and the family can pay the price. Why PPI Rendezvous Felt Like "Home" for a Family Business Advisor Mindset Michael and Megan discuss the Purposeful Planning Institute (PPI) Rendezvous in Denver, which Megan attended despite being the only "brand person" in the room. She describes the conference as a unique blend of academic curiosity and practical collaboration—where professionals openly share real examples, tools, and frameworks to improve how they serve families. This speaks directly to what families need today: a coordinated ecosystem of advisors, including the Family Business Advisor, Family Business Consultant, and trusted experts in governance, wealth, and transition. Families navigating family business legacy planning rarely have just one challenge at a time. They are dealing with succession, leadership development, reputation, rising-gen engagement, and often family business wealth management all at once. That's why the most effective outcomes happen when the advisor team thinks holistically and supports true family business continuity planning. The Cracker Barrel Lesson: Brand Isn't a Logo, But Logos Carry Meaning The episode pivots into a timely example: the "Cracker Barrel debacle," where a brand change sparked intense public backlash. Megan uses this moment to explain how people emotionally connect with symbols, especially nostalgic brands. The logo isn't the brand, but it becomes shorthand for what the brand represents—comfort, tradition, familiarity, and trust. For a family enterprise, this is a direct parallel: when long-standing brand elements change, stakeholders worry about deeper changes too. Megan calls this the "what else are we losing?" response. Customers and employees don't just react to design—they react to perceived shifts in trust and identity. This is why Family business leadership transitions and Family business succession must be approached with strategic communication and continuity. If leadership change is paired with sudden brand shifts, it can amplify uncertainty and weaken stakeholder confidence. Families focused on Business continuity for families must consider not only operational transition, but how reputation and brand signals communicate stability. Reputation as an Asset: The Hidden Value Families Must Protect One of the most valuable parts of the conversation is Megan's framing of reputation as a tangible asset. Many family owners intuitively know this: if you ask what their greatest assets are, they will often say "our reputation," "our relationships," and "the trust our customers have in us." That trust is brand equity—and it directly affects enterprise value. Megan explains that in business valuation, "intangible assets" often include brand power, customer relationships, intellectual property, and market positioning. Even if a family never sells the business, this still matters, because the business is often the family's largest asset and the central engine behind family business wealth management and long-term Legacy planning. In other words, the asset being transferred through Passing on the family business isn't just equipment, revenue, or real estate—it's also trust and goodwill. This is where the role of a Family Business Advisor becomes critical. A strong advisor helps families inventory and protect the intangible value that supports family business legacy planning, family office legacy planning, and strategic transition. The Three Brand Pillars That Strengthen Continuity and Transferability Megan outlines three practical pillars that help a business build brand equity and prepare for generational transfer. These pillars are especially relevant for a family business succession planning advisor or a Family Business Consultant supporting long-term continuity: 1) Transferability Does trust live only with the founder or leading generation? Or does it live within the company itself? If reputation is tied to one person, succession becomes fragile. Strong transferability supports family business to new generation transitions and reduces the "key person risk" that threatens Business continuity for families. 2) Systemization Is the brand experience consistent? Are communication systems documented? Are brand standards and customer experiences repeatable? Systemization helps the business maintain continuity when leadership changes, which is essential for family business continuity planning and Family business leadership development. 3) Voice of the Customer Do you regularly collect customer feedback, surface insights, and operationalize them? Megan notes that many family companies say they "know their customers," but don't systematize that knowledge. Capturing and using customer insight strengthens brand equity and gives future leaders a clear roadmap for protecting trust. These pillars connect directly to family office explained thinking: families who operate with a family business family office mindset often seek structured processes, measurable systems, and continuity planning that outlasts any one person. This is where family business family office advice becomes highly relevant, particularly when brand and reputation are part of the family's long-term wealth and continuity strategy. Culture Made Visible: Why Brand Is a Leadership Issue Michael and Megan reinforce that brand is essentially culture made visible. If culture is unclear, inconsistent, or undocumented, it becomes difficult to transfer. That's why families must articulate vision, purpose, and values in ways that employees and customers can repeat easily. Megan offers a sharp test: can employees and customers explain your strategy in one sentence? If not, you risk becoming a "best kept secret"—and your team won't be aligned. For a Family Business Advisor, this is a crucial leadership and continuity issue. A cohesive internal culture is the foundation for Family business leadership and the consistency needed for Family business succession. This also ties into family office strategy: families building a multi-generational enterprise want more than profit—they want shared values, shared identity, and a legacy story that carries forward. That's why brand and culture are directly connected to Legacy planning and family office legacy planning. Rising Gen Engagement: The Two Gateways to Continuity When the conversation turns toward next-gen stewardship, Megan identifies two powerful pathways for engaging the rising generation and strengthening Business continuity for families: Brand Education Start early. Teach the next generation what the business stands for, who it serves, and why it matters. This supports a smoother transition from family business to new generation, especially in cousin consortium stages where some owners may not work in the operating company. When the rising generation understands the brand and legacy, they're more likely to become responsible stewards—and not accidental risk points (especially in today's social-media environment). Strategic Philanthropy Megan emphasizes that philanthropy can connect values, community relationships, and reputation. Michael builds on this idea by describing philanthropy as "the sandbox for entrepreneurship and leadership." It teaches communication, decision-making, collaboration, and gratitude—skills that reduce entitlement and strengthen long-term family business legacy planning. For families working with a Family Business Advisor or financial advisor for family business, philanthropy can become a structured training ground that supports governance, next-gen development, and even public reputation—an underrated asset in family business continuity planning. The Big Takeaway: The Brand Is Part of the Legacy This episode makes one message crystal clear: brand, reputation, and trust are not surface-level marketing decisions. They are legacy assets. They are continuity tools. They are governance tools. They are the human infrastructure that determines whether leadership changes feel stable or disruptive. Families who want to succeed in Passing on the family business must treat brand and culture with the same seriousness they treat financial statements, legal structures, and ownership plans. A well-rounded advisor team—including a Family Business Advisor, Family Business Consultant, family business wealth management advisor, and a family business succession planning advisor—can help families align strategy, strengthen trust, and protect the enterprise for the next generation. Ultimately, this is what Business continuity for families looks like: continuity of leadership, continuity of culture, continuity of reputation, and continuity of purpose—supported by clear systems, aligned strategy, and thoughtful Legacy planning.
This Week In Startups is made possible by:LinkedIn Ads - http://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartupsSquarespace -https://squarespace.com/twistHubspot - http://clickhubspot.com/twist1Today's show: We're saying goodbye to 2025 with our annual TWISTY Awards, looking back on our favorite pod moments from throughout the year.Featured clips include Jason's message to the members of Reddit's r/AntiWork community…Why JCal would NEVER work with Sam Altman or OpenAI…The time that Jason got doxxed and then found the guy responsible on LinkedIn…Why LA Mayor Karen Bass earned a *disgraziad*…Alex saying “Yessir!” in a weird way…And much more classic TWiST content.See y'all next year!Timestamps:(0:00) It's the final episode of the year: The TWiSTY Awards for our favorite moments and guests of the year(2:06) The nominees for Best Name Drop(7:02)2025 in Trends(9:52) LinkedIn Ads: Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. Launch your first campaign and get $250 FREE when you spend at least $250. Go to http://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups to claim your credit.(14:28) The best Jason anecdotes and personal stories(19:43) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://squarespace.com/twist(22:28) Our favorite 2025 guests, including Doug Leone, Coffeezilla, Anton Osika, and more(29:03) The year in Jason Rants(30:18) Hubspot: Check out the guide “How to Get Your First 100 Customers.” Download it for free at http://clickhubspot.com/twist1(36:11) Controversial moments and the year's hottest takes(44:11) DISGRAZIAD! Here are the most shameful people and companies of 2025(50:50)Alex's best/worst Dad Jokes(54:32) It's a simple word… groceries*Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.comCheck out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.comSubscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp*Follow Lon:X: https://x.com/lons*Follow Alex:X: https://x.com/alexLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexwilhelm/*Follow Jason:X: https://twitter.com/JasonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis/*Thank you to our partners:(9:52) LinkedIn Ads: Start converting your B2B audience into high quality leads today. Launch your first campaign and get $250 FREE when you spend at least $250. Go to http://linkedin.com/thisweekinstartups to claim your credit.(19:43) Squarespace - Use offer code TWIST to save 10% off your first purchase of a website or domain at https://squarespace.com/twist(30:18) Hubspot: Check out the guide “How to Get Your First 100 Customers.” Download it for free at http://clickhubspot.com/twist1
Get Tina's Prompt Engineer Guide to make killer AI agents: https://clickhubspot.com/dte Ep. 388 Did you know that deep domain expertise—not just engineering chops—is now the critical skill for building powerful AI workflows? Kipp and Tina Huang, data scientist and YouTuber, dive into how anyone can use tools like ChatGPT and n8n to stop customers from leaving by automating and personalizing your workflows for true impact. Learn more on identifying the right problems to automate, the essential components of building AI-powered agents, and the cultural and organizational strategies to actually get your team on board and drive change. Mentions Tina Huang https://www.youtube.com/@TinaHuang1 n8n https://n8n.io/ Gemini 3 https://gemini.google.com/app Gumloop https://www.gumloop.com/ Get our guide to build your own Custom GPT: https://clickhubspot.com/customgpt We're creating our next round of content and want to ensure it tackles the challenges you're facing at work or in your business. To understand your biggest challenges we've put together a survey and we'd love to hear from you! https://bit.ly/matg-research Resource [Free] Steal our favorite AI Prompts featured on the show! Grab them here: https://clickhubspot.com/aip We're on Social Media! Follow us for everyday marketing wisdom straight to your feed YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGtXqPiNV8YC0GMUzY-EUFg Twitter: https://twitter.com/matgpod TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@matgpod Join our community https://landing.connect.com/matg Thank you for tuning into Marketing Against The Grain! Don't forget to hit subscribe and follow us on Apple Podcasts (so you never miss an episode)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marketing-against-the-grain/id1616700934 If you love this show, please leave us a 5-Star Review https://link.chtbl.com/h9_sjBKH and share your favorite episodes with friends. We really appreciate your support. Host Links: Kipp Bodnar, https://twitter.com/kippbodnar Kieran Flanagan, https://twitter.com/searchbrat ‘Marketing Against The Grain' is a HubSpot Original Podcast // Brought to you by Hubspot Media // Produced by Darren Clarke.
Lessons on Humanity, Technology, and Leadership from a Pioneer of Customer Experience Shep interviews Bruce Temkin, host of Humanity at Scale: Redefining Leadership. He talks about how AI is reshaping business and why human connection remains essential for both customers and employees. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: What is the difference between customer experience and customer service? Why is the concept "the customer is always right" often considered misguided? How can companies benefit from shifting their focus from internal processes to customer-centric thinking? What role does behavioral science play in improving customer experience? How is artificial intelligence affecting customer service and employee roles in modern organizations? Top Takeaways: Customer experience isn't just a buzzword or a fancy way of saying customer service. It is not just about the moments where the customer needs help. It is about every interaction throughout the entire customer journey. Customers are not always right, but they are always the customer. Customers sometimes have complaints or requests that don't align with the business's offerings, especially if they're not the target audience. Treat everyone with respect, even when you can't give them exactly what they want. Even when they are wrong, let them be wrong with dignity and keep the relationship open for the future as much as possible. Behavioral science helps explain why customers act the way they do, make certain choices, and even how they respond to situations. Knowledge about how humans think and feel is just as essential as knowing how to organize teams or create new products. Understanding human behavior helps leaders make decisions that truly connect with employees and customers. Success isn't just about financial results, but also about making life better for people inside and outside the company. Leaders who keep the well-being of employees, customers, and communities in mind make decisions that will have a positive impact on everyone. AI is changing how work gets done, especially in customer service. AI helps humans do higher-level, creative, and caring work. AI can handle simple tasks, so humans can focus on building real relationships and solving complex problems. Technology creates new opportunities. AI will not replace humans. It will change the type of work that humans do. Just like how the internet created tons of new jobs, AI will reshape the workplace and introduce new careers. Plus, Shep and Bruce discuss why it is important for individuals and companies to make sure they are always moving towards their "North Star." Tune in! Quote: "One of the absolute misguided beliefs is that the customer is always right. They aren't. All you have to do is look at yourself in the mirror. Everyone's been a customer and not always been right when they've complained or seen a problem." About: Bruce Temkin is widely recognized as the "Godfather of Customer Experience," helping to shape customer and employee experience and advising leaders on how to keep people at the center of their organizational processes. He is the host of the podcast, Humanity at Scale: Redefining Leadership. 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
Today's show features: Don Hall, President and CEO of Virginia Automobile Dealers Association Alan Haig, President of Haig Partners This episode is brought to you by: Impel – Impel's Service AI with Voice AI changes that with proactive, VIN-specific outreach based on individual driving behavior, missed call capture, and instant appointment scheduling by text and email. Advisors stay focused on the drive. Customers get fast, personalized service. One complete platform. No missed moments. No missed revenue. Visit https://carguymedia.com/4pXVx0x to learn more. Car Dealership Guy is back with our second annual NADA Party—happening in Las Vegas on Thursday, February 5th. It's the hottest ticket at NADA 2026. Spots are limited and unfortunately we can't invite everyone —so RSVP today at https://carguymedia.com/cdglive and we hope to see you in Vegas! — Check out Car Dealership Guy's stuff: CDG Circles ➤ https://cdgcircles.com/ CDG News ➤ https://news.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Jobs ➤ https://jobs.dealershipguy.com/ CDG Recruiting ➤ https://www.cdgrecruiting.com/ My Socials: X ➤ https://www.twitter.com/GuyDealership Instagram ➤ https://www.instagram.com/cardealershipguy/ TikTok ➤ https://www.tiktok.com/@guydealership LinkedIn ➤ https://www.linkedin.com/company/cardealershipguy/ Threads ➤ https://www.threads.net/@cardealershipguy Facebook ➤ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077402857683 Everything else ➤ dealershipguy.com
Send us a textEpisode 358: In this episode of The Heavy Duty Parts Report, Jamie Irvine speaks with Bryan Thueson of OptiCat and Moritz Mahler of TecAlliance about the long‑standing challenges in warranty processing across the heavy‑duty parts industry. They explain how manual, inconsistent, and inefficient warranty workflows create high process costs, poor transparency, customer frustration, and inaccurate quality tracking for both distributors and suppliers. Moritz describes how TecCom's standardized digital warranty platform—already widely adopted in Europe—streamlines claim creation, centralizes communication, integrates with ERPs and e‑commerce systems, and reduces claim processing time to under 90 seconds. Bryan highlights the improved customer experience, reduced costs, and better data accuracy that come from adopting a unified system rather than each supplier building their own. Links· https://www.jnpopticat.com/ Sponsors of this EpisodeThe Hub Corp: Introducing the new standard in wheel-end protection: The Hub Corp's revolutionary XTRACTOR™. The only line of heavy-duty hub caps with a built-in 3-Stage Magnetic Oil Filter that safeguards critical axle components under extreme loads for longer. And with the patent-pending HexThread™ cartridge, the XTRACTOR makes hub oil servicing and inspections faster, easier, and cleaner. The Hub Corp: Challenge The Standard. Visit TheHubCorp.com to learn more and join the waitlist. Fullbay: Fullbay is built for the heavy-duty world, giving your operation the tools to keep your fleet or independent repair shop running. Features like streamlined scheduling, real-time inventory tracking, technician efficiency insights, and detailed reports are how Fullbay helps shops reduce downtime and keep your vehicles on the road where they belong. Check out Fullbay.com/power to maximize your shop's productivity. GenAlpha: Equip360 by GenAlpha helps manufacturers and distributors grow their parts sales and make life easier for their customers. With real-time insights into inventory, pricing, and order tracking, it keeps customers coming back. Plus, it saves time by automating routine tasks and making repeat purchases simple. Explore Equip360 at GenAlpha.com.Disclaimer: This content and description may contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, The Heavy Duty Parts Report may receive a commission. Follow the podcast to never miss an episode. If you'd like to work with Jamie Irvine directly, you can schedule a meeting with him today.
Customers are growing increasingly frustrated with PG&E as thousands of residents in San Francisco's Richmond and Sunset districts were without power for a second Saturday in a row. This weekend's outage was the fifth in Sunset in recent weeks. For more KCBS Radio News Anchor, Steve Scott spoke with KCBS Insider Phil Matier.
#730 Is your business leaking customers without you realizing it? In this episode hosted by Brien Gearin, we chat with Samantha Irwin, founder of Kaizen Coaching and Consulting, about why customer experience is everything — and how failing your team means failing your customers. Samantha shares her journey from middle school teacher to boutique hotel owner and explains why even 1% better service can transform your business. We unpack her "customer journey Ferris wheel," practical retention strategies, and real-life examples of exceeding expectations when things go wrong — including a behind-the-scenes story of how she turned a nightmare booking error into a glowing review. Plus, we dive into empowering employees, creating a culture of hospitality, and simple ways any business can boost loyalty and retention without breaking the bank. If you want loyal customers (and happy employees), this conversation is packed with must-hear insights! (Original Air Date - 5/14/25) What we discuss with Samantha: + Why customer experience = business success + The link between staff churn and customer churn + Creating a “customer journey Ferris wheel” + Real-life story of exceeding expectations + Practical retention strategies for small biz + Empowering employees to enhance service + The true cost of high employee turnover + Small actions that build customer loyalty + Communication's role in customer retention + How to train (and hire) for hospitality Thank you, Samantha! Check out Kaizen Coaching and Consulting at Kaizen.zone. Get the free Customer Journey Map. Watch the video podcast of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if the real growth problem isn't strategy… but misalignment? In this episode, Frankie Russo, the Founder of The Growth Co and bestselling author of "Breaking Why", breaks down what it takes to create growth that compounds—without relying on charisma, hustle, or a one-time "big moment" on stage. Frankie makes a clean distinction: a book is a platform, not the mission. Thought leadership is the movement behind the platforms—and the work is designing ideas that change behavior and drive measurable outcomes. A core idea he returns to is stakeholder-first growth. Customers, colleagues, and community aren't "nice-to-haves." They're the scoreboard. Frankie argues that great companies rise or fall based on one thing: how radically aligned they are to delivering their "collective genius" to those stakeholders. Then he gets tactical about scale. Keynotes can jolt people awake—an inflection point that "shakes them out of the trance." But the keynote is only the tip of the spear. The real lever is what happens after: systems people can use every day. Frankie walks through his Growth Operating System using a simple visual: an infinity loop built to replace the "stagnation spiral." Denial. Status quo. Silos. Rigid processes. Disengagement. His point is blunt: if growth isn't operationalized, it decays—so the work is building an engine for continuous inflection points, not a single heroic turnaround. And he's candid about the craft of thought leadership delivery. The hardest part of a great keynote isn't what you include. It's what you cut—so you can land the right ideas, in the right dose, and drive adoption after the applause. Three Key Takeaways: • A keynote is the spark, not the solution. The talk can create an inflection point, but the value comes from what you operationalize afterward—tools, habits, and routines people can actually use day-to-day. • Stakeholder-first alignment drives scalable growth. Frankie keeps coming back to aligning the organization's "collective genius" around delivering outcomes for stakeholders (customers, team, community). Misalignment is what creates drag and stalls momentum. • If growth isn't systemized, it decays. His "infinity loop" / Growth Operating System idea is about replacing the stagnation spiral (silos, rigid processes, disengagement) with a repeatable engine for continuous improvement and ongoing inflection points. If Frankie Russo's message hit home—growth needs an operating system, not a motivational moment—your next listen is "Creating Alignment Between Marketing and Sales" with Winston Henderson. It's the same fight against silos, just aimed at the part of the business where misalignment quietly kills revenue: the handoff between marketing and sales. Listen to Winston right after this episode and you'll connect the dots between alignment as a leadership principle and alignment as a revenue discipline. Frankie gives you the "why" and the operating rhythm for sustainable growth. Winston gives you the "how" to make that rhythm real across teams—shared language, shared priorities, and shared measures—so your thought leadership doesn't just inspire… it converts.
In this episode: Florida Power & Light recently won permission to raise electricity rates by at least $7 billion over the next four years. It appears to be the largest electric rate hike in American history. In this episode, we explain why this increase is so big, how FPL pulled it off, and who should be held accountable. Editor's note: A written version of this story first appeared in the Seeking Rents newsletter: Florida just approved the largest electric rate increase in history. Here's how it happened.Show notesCheck out some of Seeking Rents' previous coverage of Florida Power & Light and utility regulation in Florida:Inside the $5 billion deal that Gov. Ron DeSantis' political appointees gave to Florida Power & Light (August 2022)Florida Power & Light pocketed $1 billion in tax cuts for itself. But now it can pass tax increases on to its customers (August 2022)How Ron DeSantis helped Florida Power & Light raise electricity rates by $5 billion (September 2022)A power company wants to take $1 billion from Florida customers. It just gave $3 million to Florida politicians. (November 2022)Customers took Florida's biggest power company to court. Ron DeSantis and lawmakers stepped up to help...the power company. (July 2023)As his campaign runs low on cash, DeSantis turns to big Florida businesses for help (October 2023)Ron DeSantis just re-stacked the deck on the board that sets electricity rates in Florida (October 2025)Questions or comments? Send ‘em to Garcia.JasonR@gmail.comListen to the show: Apple | SpotifyWatch the show: YouTube Get full access to Seeking Rents at jasongarcia.substack.com/subscribe
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Please take 12 seconds to rate and review the podcast because it helps us find new listeners ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐FREE RESOURCES✅ Get a free digital copy of my bestselling book for a limited time, Choice Hacking: How to use psychology and behavioral science to create an experience that sings. Get it here: https://www.choicehacking.com/free-book/ ✅ Get FREE weekly marketing psychology insights when you join my newsletter, Choice Hacking Ideas: Join the 10k+ people getting daily insights on how to 2x their marketing effectiveness (so sales and profit 2x, too) using buyer psychology. Join here: https://www.choicehacking.com/read/✅ Connect with host Jennifer Clinehens on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, or TikTok @ChoiceHacking and @BuildwithChoiceHackingWORK WITH ME✅ Corporate Training: Get your team up-skilled marketing psychology and behavioral science with a workshop or training session. Choice Hacking has worked with brands like Microsoft, T-Mobile, and McDonalds to help their teams apply behavioral science and marketing psychology.Learn more here, and get in touch using the contact form at the bottom of the page: https://www.choicehacking.com/training/✅ Get your own Chief Marketing Copilot for your business when you my new program. Get live Skill Sessions, Implementation Sessions, and one-on-one time with me.Learn more here: https://choicehacking.academy/pro/✅ Buy my book in Kindle, paperback, or audiobook form: "Choice Hacking: How to use psychology and behavioral science to create an experience that sings": https://choicehacking.com/PodBook/ ★ Support this podcast ★
In this Best Of Customer Psychology episode, Chris Fresh breaks down how homeowners think, what builds trust, and why customer confidence drives bigger yes decisions. Learn how empathy, professionalism, and clear value language change the entire conversation from the front door to the final option.
How to Turn Holiday Returns into Lifetime Customers for Your Apparel Brand Returns don't have to hurt your brand...they can build it. In this short yet powerful episode of The Business of Apparel Podcast, Rachel shares how returns and exchanges, especially during the busy holiday season, can be transformed into a strategic advantage for your apparel brand. Instead of dreading post-holiday returns, learn how to handle them for quality data, improve your customer service touchpoints, and build brand loyalty. Rachel walks through how to handle customer feedback (the good and the brutal), why you should never chase perfection for everyone, and how to create a customer experience that leaves people talking, in a good way. Whether you're deep in the return season or planning for next year, this episode will shift your mindset and help you lead with confidence. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Returns and Exchanges 00:31 Holiday Returns: Turning Stress into Opportunity 01:56 Collecting Valuable Feedback 03:13 Handling Sizing and Fit Issues 07:18 Quality Concerns and Customer Preferences 08:51 Creating a Positive Customer Service Experience 11:35 Conclusion Sign up for the Secrets Behind Billion Dollar Apparel Brands Masterclass here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/secrets Join The Board here: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/the-board We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode! Purchase the Business of Apparel Online Course: https://www.thebusinessofapparel.com/course To connect with Rachel, you can join her LinkedIn community here: LinkedIn. To visit her website, go to: www.unmarkedstreet.com.
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Ready to churn less and win more?
Pool Pros text questions hereIn this episode, Natalie Hood sits down with Ryan Walker to unpack how retail sales in the pool industry have evolved over the last two decades—and what dealers, builders, and retailers need to understand to stay competitive today.From the rise of online shopping and social media influence to changing homeowner expectations and shifting economic realities, this conversation challenges long-held myths about retail, sales strategy, and customer behavior. Ryan draws on 20 years of experience across lifeguarding, distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales to explain why the future of pool retail isn't about fighting online competition—but learning how to work alongside it.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeRetail Isn't Dead—It's Evolving Ryan explains why online sales are no longer the enemy of brick-and-mortar stores and how retailers can use online visibility as a tool rather than a threat. Homeowners today expect convenience, information, and options—and stores that adapt win loyalty.Why Personal Service Still Wins Despite access to Amazon, TikTok, and Instagram, customers are still willing to pay more for expertise, education, and a trusted relationship. Retailers who focus on solving problems—not just selling products—stand out.The Power of Analytics, Algorithms, and Social Media From phones “listening” to user behavior to influencers shaping purchasing decisions, Natalie and Ryan break down how digital marketing now drives customer expectations before they ever walk into a store.Selling the Solution, Not the Product Ryan emphasizes that customers don't need technical jargon—they need someone who understands their pain points. Whether it's water loss, recurring algae, or sanitizer confusion, great sales start with the right questions.Breaking the ‘We've Always Done It This Way' Mindset Long-standing habits can quietly cap growth. This episode explores how flexibility, testing new ideas, and being open to global trends can increase profitability without sacrificing integrity.Why Dealers Must Show What's Possible Just like car dealerships show upgraded models, pool professionals should present options—even if the customer thinks they want the “basic” version. Many homeowners don't know what's available until someone shows them.Economic Reality Has Changed From rising costs to dual-income households and post-COVID income shifts, the conversation highlights why price sensitivity isn't what it used to be—and why experience and value matter more than shaving a few dollars off the ticket.Key Takeaways• Online competition is unavoidable—but it can be leveraged • Education and trust justify premium pricing • Customers want guidance, not resistance • Social media shapes expectations before the sale • Retail success depends on adaptability and curiosity • Selling without passion turns stores into warehousesAbout the GuestRyan Walker brings more than 20 years of industry experience, starting as a lifeguard and facility manager before moving into distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales. His career spans multiple climates, pool types, and retail models, giving him a wide-angle view of what works—and what doesn't—in today's poo Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
Pool Pros text questions hereIn this episode, Natalie Hood sits down with Ryan Walker to unpack how retail sales in the pool industry have evolved over the last two decades—and what dealers, builders, and retailers need to understand to stay competitive today.From the rise of online shopping and social media influence to changing homeowner expectations and shifting economic realities, this conversation challenges long-held myths about retail, sales strategy, and customer behavior. Ryan draws on 20 years of experience across lifeguarding, distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales to explain why the future of pool retail isn't about fighting online competition—but learning how to work alongside it.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeRetail Isn't Dead—It's EvolvingRyan explains why online sales are no longer the enemy of brick-and-mortar stores and how retailers can use online visibility as a tool rather than a threat. Homeowners today expect convenience, information, and options—and stores that adapt win loyalty.Why Personal Service Still WinsDespite access to Amazon, TikTok, and Instagram, customers are still willing to pay more for expertise, education, and a trusted relationship. Retailers who focus on solving problems—not just selling products—stand out.The Power of Analytics, Algorithms, and Social MediaFrom phones “listening” to user behavior to influencers shaping purchasing decisions, Natalie and Ryan break down how digital marketing now drives customer expectations before they ever walk into a store.Selling the Solution, Not the ProductRyan emphasizes that customers don't need technical jargon—they need someone who understands their pain points. Whether it's water loss, recurring algae, or sanitizer confusion, great sales start with the right questions.Breaking the ‘We've Always Done It This Way' MindsetLong-standing habits can quietly cap growth. This episode explores how flexibility, testing new ideas, and being open to global trends can increase profitability without sacrificing integrity.Why Dealers Must Show What's PossibleJust like car dealerships show upgraded models, pool professionals should present options—even if the customer thinks they want the “basic” version. Many homeowners don't know what's available until someone shows them.Economic Reality Has ChangedFrom rising costs to dual-income households and post-COVID income shifts, the conversation highlights why price sensitivity isn't what it used to be—and why experience and value matter more than shaving a few dollars off the ticket.Key Takeaways• Online competition is unavoidable—but it can be leveraged • Education and trust justify premium pricing • Customers want guidance, not resistance • Social media shapes expectations before the sale • Retail success depends on adaptability and curiosity • Selling without passion turns stores into warehousesAbout the GuestRyan Walker brings more than 20 years of industry experience, starting as a lifeguard and facility manager before moving into distribution, manufacturing representation, and national sales. His career spans multiple climates, pool types, and retail models, giving him a wide-angle view of what works—and what doesn't—in today's poo Support the showThank you so much for listening! You can find us on social media: Facebook Instagram Tik Tok Email us: talkingpools@gmail.com
We look back at the biggest tech news of 2025, plus the U.S. halts new DJI drone imports, our ChatGPT “Wrapped” results, and our tech picks of the year!Ad-Free + Bonus EpisodesShow Notes via EmailWatch on YouTube!Join the CommunityEmail Us: podcast@primarytech.fm@stephenrobles on Threads@jasonaten on Threads------------------------------Sponsors:Copilot Money - Limited-time: Get 26% off your first year and a FREE month when you sign up at: try.copilot.money/primaryFramer - Start creating for free at framer.com/design, and use code PRIMARY for a free month of Framer Pro.------------------------------Links from the showJason on Movies on the Side PodcastNelko Bluetooth Thermal Shipping Label PrinterAnker Nano Charging Station, 7-in-1 USB-CThe Task Knife | Grovemade® Elgato Stream Deck +US bans new foreign drone models in a blow to Chinese giant DJI | CNN BusinessChatGPT launches a year-end review like Spotify Wrapped | TechCrunchApple warns employees not to leave the U.S. amid return delays - 9to5MacInstagram long-form videos and full control of your feed may happenApple Intelligence summaries might get warning labels. That's not enough. – Six ColorsTikTok gets reprieve with Trump order but with twist | Reuters How Apple Builds Iconic Stores: SVP Deirdre O'Brien Interview! - YouTubeDeepSeek privacy under investigation in US and Europe; App Store impactApple Invites - YouTubeAfter a bruising year, Sonos readies its next big thing: a streaming box | The VergeScarlett Johansson calls for anti deepfake laws after AI video goes viral | The VergeMy Teen Switched to iPhone 16e – Does He Regret It? - YouTubeIn an Email to Customers, Humane Just Delivered a Brutal Lesson in FailureWith Its AI-Powered Alexa+, Amazon Just Put Apple on NoticeOpenAI expands Deep Research to all paying ChatGPT usersHands on With the M4 MacBook Air: It's DelightfuliOS 19 Redesign Now Widely Rumored - MacRumorsApple adds new disclaimer on its website advertising delayed AI Siri features - 9to5MacDaring Fireball: Something Is Rotten in the State of CupertinoSonos has canceled its streaming video player | The VergeNintendo Switch 2 specs: 1080p 120Hz display, 4K dock, mouse mode, and more | The VergeAmazon Said to Make a Bid to Buy TikTok in the U.S. - The New York TimesLeaked iPhone 17 Pro Cases Show Huge Cutout for New Camera Bump - MacRumorsReport: iPadOS 19 to be 'more like macOS' in major overhaul - 9to5MacOpenAI is building a social network | The VergeiPhone 17 Air's Extreme Thinness Demoed in New Video - MacRumorsA judge just blew up Apple's control of the App Store | The VergeAirbnb Just Radically Changed Travel Again. Here's How.At I/O, Google Just Shipped Apple's AI PromisesA letter from Sam and Jony | OpenAI
There is a lot that goes into someone making a decision to make a purchase. How do we understand the driving factors that move people toward purchase decision and make sure that we are prepared to meet them with a product when they are ready? We answer these questions and more in this conversation with Shane Barber of Barber industries. We answer these questions by discussing the lessons Shane has learned in selling his Storage Drinker.Thanks to our Studio Sponsor, Understanding Ag!Head over to UnderstandingAg.com to book your consultation today!Sponsor:RogueFoodConference.com (Use Code Cows30 $30 off your ticket)Contact Shane:(605)381-2525Relevant Links:Science of Persuasion
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Dog Marketing, NAPA Auto Care, and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at AAPEX 2025, this episode features Dan Vance, CEO of Shop Dog Marketing, sharing how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping marketing, business strategy, and the auto repair industry. The conversation explores how AI is changing consumer behavior—from lightning fast website visits focused on trust signals to customers using AI for vehicle self-diagnosis and shop recommendations, with AI often presenting only a few options, strong branding and clear communication matter more than ever. In the marketing sphere, Vance explains that attention spans are incredibly short. Website visitors typically spend just 20 seconds looking for clear trust indicators such as professionalism, strong reviews, warranties, online scheduling, and financing options. Visual cues communicate faster than text, while warm colors and photos of the team help build familiarity and trust. Online scheduling continues to grow in importance as many consumers prefer it over making a phone call. Vance encourages shop owners to embrace AI as a “digital butler”—a tool that anticipates needs, explains marketing metrics in plain language, and helps owners show up more confident, shifting from reacting to problems to intentionally driving growth. Dan Vance, Shop Dog Marketing.com Thanks to our Partner, Shop Dog Marketing Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings. Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS 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 into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: - Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ - Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters - Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 - Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto - Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ - Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ - Follow on Twitter:
Title: "From College Football Controversies to Christmas Camels: Kent Hance Unleashes Texas-Sized Tales!" Episode Description: "Why do we worry so much about yesterday and tomorrow, when today is all we truly have?"
In this special year-end episode, Joe revisits one of the earliest Content Inc. podcasts, originally recorded in December 2014. It's a deeply personal reflection on growing up around his grandfather's funeral home in Sandusky, Ohio, and the unexpected business and storytelling lessons that came from those years. At the heart of the episode is a simple truth. Great storytelling is not about performance or persuasion. It's about service, empathy, and meaning. Through one powerful story from the Great Depression and a set of foundational content marketing principles, Joe reminds us why helping first and communicating well still matter more than ever. This is a no-video episode, shared intentionally as a reminder of how far the podcast has come and what has remained constant. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why helping others is the foundation of meaningful business How a single story can communicate values better than any strategy deck What great storytelling actually does for trust and connection Why usefulness always beats interruption in marketing The core Content Inc. beliefs that still hold true more than a decade later Key Takeaways Helping people is not separate from business. It is the business. Storytelling works best when it is grounded in empathy and service. Content is more important than the offer. Trust is built over time through consistency, usefulness, and direct communication. Brands can be copied. The way you communicate cannot. Content Inc. Principles Mentioned The content is more important than the offer Customer relationships do not end with the transaction Being the content is more important than surrounding the content Focus on what the customer wants, not just what you have to sell Build your content on owned platforms, not rented land Culture comes before strategy Customers want inspiration, not sales messages About This Episode This episode originally aired on December 16, 2014. It is being reshared to mark the anniversary of Joe's grandfather's passing and to close out the year with a reminder of why Content Inc. exists in the first place. There will be no new episode next week. Content Inc. returns with all-new episodes on the first Monday of 2026. If this episode resonates, share it with one creator who is doing too many things out of habit instead of intention. If you want more insights every Friday morning, subscribe to Joe Pulizzi's Tilt newsletter at https://www.thetilt.com/. Get Joe Pulizzi's new book Burn the Playbook: https://www.joepulizzi.com/books/burn-the-playbook/ Subscribe to Content Inc. here - https://www.contentinc.io/
In this intriguing episode of the HVAC Uncensored Podcast, Gil delves into the topic of customers who search for the cost of parts online. They are curious about the difference between the cost of the part and the labor involved. My friend can offer a cheaper option. While I understand customers' concerns about being overcharged, I wonder where the line should be drawn. Is this an industry-wide issue, given that some companies have exorbitant prices? Let's have a discussion on this matter. I'll share my thoughts, and I'd love to hear your perspectives as well. Come Check out the Live Show!!! =====Don't Forget To Follow The Podcast On Social Media To Stay Up To Date======= The easiest way to find all links is to go to https://www.hvacuncensored.com or https://www.poplme.co/hvacuncensored *****Please Show Some Love To The Amazing Show Sponsors/Partners******* YELLOW JACKET https://www.yellowjacket.com COMPANYCAM https://www.companycam.com/hvacuncensored GET A FREE 14-DAY TRIAL, THEN 50% OFF YOUR FIRST 2 MONTHS HVAC TACTICAL https://www.hvactactical.com USE DISCOUNT CODE (HVACUNCENSORED) & SAVE 20% ON YOUR ORDER HOUSECALL PRO https://www.housecallpro.com/hvac-uncensored/ VETO PRO PAC https://www.vetopropac.com/ HOMEPROS https://www.readhomepros.com CAMEL CITY MILL https://www.camelcitymill.com/UNCENSORED10 USE DISCOUNT CODE (UNCENSORED10) & SAVE 10% ON YOUR ORDER LOKAL https://www.lokalhq.com FIND ALL HVAC UNCENSORED MERCH AT https://www.hvacuncensored.com/
Stupid News 12-22-2025 8am …The Glitch Overcharged Customers by 100 Times More Than They Owed …A 4-hour bathroom break …He was Drunk and Pretending to be a Police Officer
SMOGS, DRACULAS, AND THE SHOP'S RESIDENT GHOST Colleague Oliver Darkshire. Oliver categorizes customers, such as "Smogs" seeking treasures and "Draculas" obsessed with specific themes. He discusses book runners, discovering moldy copies of Edwin Drood, and surviving government apprenticeship inspections. Additionally, he recounts shadowing thieves and the shop's ghost, a former owner killed by a tram. NUMBER 3 1890
We're bringing you some of our favorite episodes of 2025 while we get a holiday break -- and prepare for our big America250 series. See you in 2026!It's April 3rd. In 2015, Starbucks announces that it is bringing its "Race Together" initiative to a close, after it was relentlessly mocked and critced online and in stores.Jody, Niki, and Kellie look back at the very-Obama-era effort by the coffee chain to spark conversations about racial inequality by having their baristas write #racetogether on customer's cups. Customers were not feeling it.Sign up for our newsletter! Find out more at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, want to buy some merch, or just want to say hello. Our website is thisdaypod.com Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Audrey Mardavich, Executive Producer at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices
In December 1953, Hollywood film stars Stan Laurel and Oliver Hardy spent a few weeks at the Bull Inn, Bottesford, Leicestershire, while they performed a show at the nearby Nottingham Empire.Stan's sister, Olga Healey, was the landlady.Customers and staff said the duo spent time serving behind the bar, signing autographs and chatting with regulars.This was produced and presented by Rachel Naylor, in collaboration with BBC Archives.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive. Witness History is for those fascinated by the past. We take you to the events that have shaped our world through the eyes of the people who were there.For nine minutes every day, we take you back in time and all over the world, to examine wars, coups, scientific discoveries, cultural moments and much more.Recent episodes explore everything from the death of Adolf Hitler, the first spacewalk and the making of the movie Jaws, to celebrity tortoise Lonesome George, the Kobe earthquake and the invention of superglue.We look at the lives of some of the most famous leaders, artists, scientists and personalities in history, including: Eva Peron – Argentina's Evita; President Ronald Reagan and his famous ‘tear down this wall' speech; Thomas Keneally on why he wrote Schindler's List; and Jacques Derrida, France's ‘rock star' philosopher.You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the civil rights swimming protest; the disastrous D-Day rehearsal; and the death of one of the world's oldest languages.(Photo: Oliver Hardy and Stan Laurel. Credit: Getty Images)
Are you curious how entrepreneurs manage to sell products before they've even built them? Pre‑selling is the key to validating your idea and getting money in the bank before launch day.In this episode, Omar shares how he pre‑sold his own software to beta customers and the exact steps you can follow too. You'll learn how to craft a no‑brainer offer, build trust, and use risk reversal strategies to land your first paying beta members. He also breaks down four key moves, including how to anchor your price, treat beta users like VIPs, and validate your product before investing years of effort.Hit play at the top of the page and walk away with a clear framework for pre‑selling to your own beta customers and setting your business up for long‑term growth.To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.Watch the episodes on YouTube: https://lm.fm/GgRPPHiSUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This week on Hysteria 51, we're serving up two stories that prove society is being held together by duct tape and pure audacity.First: GameStop's “Trade Anything Day.” And they meant anything. Customers reportedly rolled in with a goose, a bobcat, and a Wii Netflix disc—which is basically the Rosetta Stone of “please don't ask how long this has been in my trunk.” If you've ever wondered what retail looks like when chaos is the manager on duty, welcome home.Then we head to the high-stakes world of competitive stone skimming, where a cheating scandal has allegedly rocked the World Stone Skimming Championships—because apparently even skipping rocks isn't safe from scandal, suspicion, and somebody's cousin “who definitely knows a guy.” It's sports drama, but with wetter pants and more passive-aggressive shoreline energy.Two stories. Zero dignity. Maximum weird. Hit play and let's skim straight into the absurd.Links & Resources
On today's episode, Andy & DJ break down Erika Kirk's sharp response to the wild conspiracy theories circulating online about her jewelry coming just as the alleged killer in Charlie Kirk's case prepares for his first in-person court appearance, the controversial ruling from a federal judge ordering Kilmar Abrego Garcia to be released from ICE custody, and the growing outrage from Cracker Barrel diners who say a new company move has them furious.