Podcast appearances and mentions of Mike Boland

Friday October 4, 2024, 12 Noon WPKN 89.5FM www.wpkn.org Host: Peggy Nelson Part 1: Hot Spots – events in our area. Part 2: Director and actor Mike Boland discussing his film “Yo, Andrea”. Part 3: A conversation with Bridgeport artist Julia Contacessi Part 4: A tribute to Gavin Creel

In E84, hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the latest developments surrounding TikTok, focusing on the platform's ad spending growth and user trends.  Mike and Charlie analyze the slowing growth rate of TikTok's ad spending and user base, pondering whether it's a result of the legislative overhang or other factors such as the influx of TikTok Shop content. They also debate if the platform's core user demographic is evolving and how the commercialization of content might be altering the user experience. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E83 of “This Week in Local,” Localogy analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland discuss the recent partnership between Shopify and Target.  This collaboration allows Shopify merchants to gain additional exposure on target.com, providing a valuable distribution channel for small merchants.  The hosts break down the implications of this deal for Shopify, Target, and the broader e-commerce ecosystem. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E82 of "This Week in Local," hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin delve into the ongoing conflict between Meta and European data privacy regulators.  They explore how Meta's efforts to deploy Meta AI in Europe have hit a roadblock due to stringent privacy laws and the pushback from regulatory bodies, particularly in Ireland. This leads to a broader discussion on the challenges big tech companies face with European regulators, especially concerning the legality and ethics of using user-generated content for AI training. Mike and Charles also touch on similar standoffs involving Google and news publishers, drawing parallels with Meta's situation. They discuss the implications of these conflicts for the future of AI training data, referencing recent licensing deals like the one between OpenAI and News Corp.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E81, we dive into Amazon's latest moves in the local advertising space.  Co-host Mike Boland breaks down Amazon's pilot program for its sponsored display ads, revealing how it's expanding beyond traditional product advertising to include local service businesses. He discusses the involvement of key players like Hibu and Tiger Pistol and what this means for the future of local digital marketing. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of Amazon's first-party data strategy in an increasingly privacy-focused world. With insightful analysis on the competitive landscape and the potential challenges Amazon might face in navigating the fragmented local market, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving world of local advertising and ecommerce. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E75, Localogy analyst Mike Boland talks about automating the art of campaign management with Lasso Media Founder (and local search vet) Mike Wilson. This conversation about local search's transformation by automation will have veterans nodding in recognition and newcomers taking notes.  Wilson says his agency was automating digital marketing well before the recent AI surge. Now Lasso uses AI to accelerate this automation process.  Wilson points to call based advertising. The persistent idea that the value of a call is based on its duration is now “antiquated”. AI can quickly ascertain if a call produces a lead, regardless of its length.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E74, Localogy analyst Mike Boland welcomes SOCi Director of Market Insight Damian Rollison, a research whiz whom Mike anoints as an honorary lifetime member of the local search analyst community.  Enjoy this geeky yet breezy conversation about modern trends in search, in particular, how generative AI is transforming (but not destroying) the search experience. The conversation is timely amid reports that OpenAI (e.gChatGPT) is on the verge of rolling out its own search engine.  But the conversation doesn't limit itself to AI. Mike and Damian talk about other ways that search is evolving. For example, the two discuss how TikTok has become the preferred search engine of many younger consumers, even if it isn't even a search engine.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E73, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin talk about Apple's moves to make it even easier for small businesses to control how they appear on Apple Maps via Apple Business Connect.  As Mike puts it, Apple's efforts to make it easier for small businesses to update their profiles (which dictate how they appear on Apple Maps) is such a smart move. It allows Apple to scale its listings content by giving small businesses the tools to do it themselves. And they have an incentive to do so. What business doesn't want to be found at the right time for the right reason? This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E72, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the state of Threads. This is the Meta app (joined at the hip with Instagram) that emerged last year as a text-based social network. And as an alternative for those who could not abide Elon Musk's stewardship of X (nee Twitter).  The hook for this discussion was a recent Meta initiative to entice Instagram creators to create on Threads. It's a move the analysts understand. Platforms like Threads need content that attracts users. And lots of it. But they also felt this move has distinct Groupon or “Happy Hour vibes.” In other words, a whiff of desperation.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

For E71, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the emerging new normal of how tech startups are being organized. This new normal involves a hyper-lean mindset among founders who now build with much smaller teams, outsource a lot more, are far more stingy with equity, and automate as much as they can using AI. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

In our fourth and final episode of conversations with Narrative Focused Trauma Care alumni, we have the privilege of speaking with Rev. Mike Boland about the profound influence of his training and work in NFTC on both his personal life and ministry. In the shadow of childhood abuse, Mike found himself trapped in what he describes as a perpetual "Groundhog Day" cycle. While he managed to get by, true healing remained elusive. However, the cycle was disrupted when he became a parent, prompting him to seek help to address his past traumas and strive to become the kind of parent he aspired to be. This pivotal disruption led him to work with a skilled therapist who introduced him to the work of the Allender Center. Though his journey towards healing was tumultuous and marked with anger, Mike pressed on with courage. His desire for growth led him to participate in a Men's Recovery Week and eventually complete Narrative Focused Trauma Care Level III training, ultimately becoming a Facilitator with the Allender Center. We hope that this four-part series of candid conversations has inspired you and sparked your imagination regarding the possibilities of healing, both for yourself and others. Our aim has been to offer you a glimpse into the profound impact of embracing the life-changing experience of Narrative Focused Trauma Care. Learn more about NFTC training at theallendercenter.org/trainings  Please note that this episode contains discussions of sexual abuse, including childhood sexual abuse, and is intended for mature audiences only. Listener discretion is advised.  

In E70, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss one of the most talked about startups in the Localogy-verse – Howard Lerman's Ro.am.  Specifically, co-host Mike Boland gives a download on his test drive of the Roam UX. And given Mike's expertise in AR/VR, Roam's spatial orientation is right up Mike's alley.   Mike's key point is that Roam's mission is to break out of the “form over function” trap that so much of what we build falls into.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation with us at podcast@localogy.com.

For E69, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin shared highlights and insights from the recently completed L24 event in Arlington, Texas. L24 wasn't 100% AI-focused. Yet it was a key theme. Mike noted how practical the conversation around AI was at L24.  Charles pointed out that it was a relief that there wasn't a lot of AI “doomer” talk at L24. Yet he felt some tough conversations were being avoided. For example, what's really behind the talk about how AI is “democratizing” this or that? The analysts also discussed TikTok's U.S. future. This surfaced throughout the event, which was before legislation was passed requiring TikTok's owner Bytedance to divest its U.S. holdings. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E68, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin talk about how AI may disrupt yet another career ambition – becoming a professional influencer.  The analysts cite data showing that about half of GenZ's say they would enjoy a career sunning poolside for brand deals. They then pierce this bubble by citing brands' likely temptation to build their own influencers with AI tools like Sora and Midjourney. While this trend may not bode well for aspiring young influencers, the analysts agreed that some flavors of influencer marketing may enjoy at least some AI immunity. This includes the emerging category of local influencers, exemplified by companies like Hummingbirds.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E67, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin Talk about TikTok's effort to stave off elimination in the U.S. by citing its formidable economic impact, particularly among small businesses.  The U.S. House has already passed a TikTok ban. And the measure awaits Senate approval.  The main driver of the movement to ban the popular platform is national security concerns stemming from TikTok's ownership by ByteDance, a Chinese company.  In the meantime, TikTok's lobbying efforts are focused on something the analysts describe as “Apple Pie” to dissuade American lawmakers from following through on the ban effort. That is the fortunes of American small businesses. According to TikTok's “Economic Impact Report 2024”, the video platform drove about $15 billion in revenue for U.S. SMBs in 2023.  The analysts debate whether this tack will work for TikTok.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.   Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In this Episode of Localogy's This Week in Local, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin unpack what we learned from Read.ai's recent $21 million Series A funding round.  The analysts agreed that the round is a good sign that VCs are out there for companies with proven founders and a good story. Although, it is not enough to declare the VC winter is thawing because a respected serial founder with “AI” in his company's name was able to raise a round.  What the analysts found even more interesting was the product expansion that accompanied Read.ai's funding round. This led to an interesting discussion on the episode of new ways organizations may (perhaps inevitably) apply this data.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

This Episode of Localogy's This Week in Local features a rundown on an interesting new move in retail media, one of the current hottest trends in local.  Co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin kick around the significance of retail giant Walmart's recent decision to expand access to its retail media network to what it calls “non-endemic brands.”  Or as Mike puts it, Walmart has “opened the floodgates to let local SMBs into the mix.” What does this mean for retail media broadly? To date, this has largely been a game for brands.  Will other retail media networks follow suit and open their floodgates to let SMBs in? Listen to the analysts talk it out to learn more.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E64, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin dive into the European Union's Digital Marketing Act and what it could mean for Apple, Alphabet (e.g., Google), and Meta (e.g., Facebook, Instagram). The Act “requires companies to give users and rivals more choices to ensure a level playing field.” What does a hefty fine mean to companies that could afford to colonize Mars? This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E63, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss the recent news from Uberall. Uberall co-founder and CEO Florian Hübner will pass the CEO baton and take over as President. It's all about strategic positioning. In some cases, the founder's greatest value – including technical backgrounds – may lie closer to the product level or business development. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E62, host Mike Boland sits with Bluehost's Senior Director of Product Management, Chris Vanover Earlier this month Bluehost launched Bluehost Cloud, bringing its customers into the world of cloud hosting – an advanced form of web hosting that utilizes distributed servers for security, performance, and load balancing.  Listen to dive into these dynamics. This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E61, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin discuss Chatmeter's latest innovation: Risk Monitoring.  This groundbreaking AI technology scans reviews and social media to pinpoint potential crises before they escalate. Chatmeter's Risk Monitoring has transformed their approach to risk mitigation in the hyper-digital era, reshaping the future of reputation management and helping businesses navigate the complexities of online presence with confidence This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation at podcast@localogy.com.

In E60, co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin debate the merits of a new experiment from Google that applied AI to a common pain point.  Mke describes how Google has rolled out “Talk to a Live Rep” which uses AI to address a common consumer pain point, waiting on hold to talk to a live agent.  Mike sees this innovation within the broader context of Google's AI strategy. In essence, Google is pursuing Talk to a Live Rep in the same manner as it has rolled out all of its famous consumer products.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E59 of This Week in Local, Mike Boland welcomes Dan Hight to do a deep but efficient dive into all things location and location intelligence.  Not to mention adjacent and highly  consequential issues like privacy, digital out of home, and retail media.  Dan will lead several sessions on these very issues at Localogy's upcoming L24 conference. Luckily for Dallas-based Dan, this event will be a home game for him.  This Week in Local is a Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ##  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

In E56 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast features Localogy senior analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin look at business trends impacting the Localogy ecosystem.  First Mike shares his insights on the rollout of Apple Vision Pro.  Then Charles looks at how location intelligence firm Placer.ai is expanding the use cases for foot traffic data through a string of recent partnerships.  And finally we wrap up the podcast with each host's nomination for “Who Won the Week” This Week in Local is a  Localogy production. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ##  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Start a conversation  at podcast@localogy.com.

Pastor and counselor Mike Boland shares a story from when he was 15 years old. It's a story about the interplay of longing for connection and, at the same time, dreading what will be required of him in return. We talk about grooming, and the war of ambivalence that rages in one's body in the midst of abuse. You can find out more about Mike's work at therestinitiative.org.

Here on Christmas eve, Mike Boland shares first with the kids and then through the sermon about the greatest present we could ever receive - Jesus and why He is important. Come listen and be reminded of these important truths.

In Episode 48 of This Week in Local, Localogy's Mike Boland sits down with Progress Partners  Managing Director David Arslanian to unpack key takeaways from the OpenAI fiasco, now that the smoke has cleared.  As Mike puts it, David is the podcast's  “resident expert on all things finance and corporate doings.” Mike and David devote the episode to understanding what the Open AI board/Sam Altman imbroglio really means. Open AI's board abruptly fired Co-founder Altman and later bowed to pressure to reinstate him. First, Mike and David briefly unpack what happened. Then they offer some lessons from the bizarre turn of events at the organization at the heart of AI's rapid evolution from something running in the background to something poised to run every aspect of our lives.  Ultimately, a lot of what happened came down to money vs. mission. And money always wins that fight.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  If you would like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode, please write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E47 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast, senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland find new angles on the ongoing saga of how AI is changing everything. Mike starts with a review of how Amazon and Google are making it easy to use generative AI to create product descriptions for Google product listings or Amazon product pages. Mike sees these moves in the context of how AI is working its way through the marketing stack, from stock images to copywriting to now the creation of product images. Charles takes this in a different direction and talks about recent comments from investor and All-In Podcast bro Chamath Palihapitiya that it is easier than it has ever been to launch a software company with just a couple of people. How? Well, just automate most tasks, from product development to marketing, using AI. In this scenario, Chamath doesn't see an outsize role for VCs.  Catch the hosts' selections for “Who Won the Week”. Perhaps Mike or Charles will mention you or your company! This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.  Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Drop us a line at podcast@localogy.com.

In E46 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast, senior analysts Mike Boland is joined by guest co-host Dan Hight to share their key takeaways from Localogy's Place 2023 conference in New York on November 7th, which the two hosts co-moderated. The event covered the local intersection of the physical and the digital. And the two analysts highlighted the lessons they took away from a high-powered group of speakers from companies that included Google, Yext, Foursquare, BrandMuscle, and many others. Some of the issues the analyst highlighted were the new normal in local advertising now that 3rd party cookies restrictions are in place. And of course, how AI is changing everything. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Drop us a line at podcast@localogy.com.

In E45 of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast, senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland sound off on Amazon ads to AI-enhanced meetings.  First Mike talks about a new option for SMB-facing agencies and publishers to sell inventory from a major advertising platform. In this case the ads are from Amazon, and hibu is  the guinea pig for this partnership model. Charles then trots out one of his favorite hobby horses – the future of work. In this instance he asks if the pivots and now rebranding of what was once Waitroom (now Rumi.ai) signal trouble in the fledgling “remote tech” space, or is Rumi just being opportunistic and poivoting to positioning itself clearly as an AI-enhanced meetings play and not as an alternative to Zoom.  And please remember to listen to the very end to catch the hosts' nominations for “Who Won the Week”. Perhaps Mike or Charles will mention you or your company. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Drop us a line at podcast@localogy.com.

In E44, Localogy senior analyst Mike Boland talks about the evolution of a major newspaper company in the digital media age with Brandon Grosvenor, Chief Revenue Officer of Torstar Corporation, the parent company of the Toronto Star, Canada's largest daily paid newspaper, as well as multiple digital properties including Homefinder.ca and Save.ca. The conversation covers a lot of ground, from the arc of transformation in Yellow Pages (Brandon is a former Yellow Pages national sales exec) to the ability for a company with traditional media roots to thrive in a Google and Meta-driven world.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E42, Localogy senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland sound off on two topics that involve protecting the little guy. First Mike talks about how big tech platforms like Meta and Airbnb are applying user verification to small businesses.  Charles then asks out loud if crowdfunding platforms will become a go-to resource for tech startups running out of runway during the long VC winter. And always remember to listen to the very end to catch the hosts' nominations for “Who Won the Week”. Maybe they will mention you or your company. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E41, Localogy senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland return to explore two top of mind topics. Mike begins with a look at the recent “Made by Google”event, which ostensibly was to roll out the new Pixel 8 phone but felt more like an AI product rollout.  Charles then talks about how an increasingly commoditized buy now pay later industry is seeking diversification in some familiar ways, including subscription products and retail media networks. Please be sure to listen to the full episode to catch the hosts' nominations for “Who Won the Week”. This week's entries touch on both the digital and physical worlds.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ## Would you like to recommend a guest, ask a question, or sponsor an episode? Write to us at podcast@localogy.com.

In E40, Localogy senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland return to explore two rather divergent topics. Mike starts the show off with an update on Amazon's Just Walk Out technology, which makes it possible to fill a basket in a store, and just walk out with the goods, and pay for them electronically. The analysts kick around why this hasn't yet revolutionized retail. Charles then shared details of a story he is working on about a private equity group rolling out local home services companies, offering a viable exit opportunity for local plumbers nearing retirement age.  Please be sure to listen to the full episode to catch the hosts sharing their choices for “Who Won the Week”. This week's WWTW entries touch on some big tech milestones. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

In E38, Localogy senior analysts Charles Laughlin and Mike Boland return to bat around two top of mind AI topics. Mike begins by musing on which uses of AI are good applications and which are really just AI solutions in search of problems. Mike offers examples of both, noting that we are in the phase where a lot of spaghetti is being thrown against the AI wall in the hope that something will stick.  Charles then raised a question that touches on AI but was spurred by a development he observed in the payments space. When a tech exec says they welcome regulation, do they really mean it? Please be sure to listen to the full episode to catch the hosts sharing their choices for “Who Won the Week”. This week's WWTW entries range from advances in personal technology to what is the best job in sports. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

In E36, Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin banter about two issues that were on their collective minds over the past week. First, Mike talks about a potential new threat to Google's search advertising dominance. And that is TikTok's moves into search marketing via its new and oddly named Search Ads Toggle. Then Charlie raised an unrelated topic. Are down rounds becoming normal? And are they a harbinger of the end of the VC winter? This thread was promoted by the fintech Ramp raising an impressive $300 million, but at a significantly reduced valuation.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

In E34, guest Co-host David Arslanian, Managing Director of investment bank Progress Partners, joins Mike Boland to explore the intersection of big tech and banking.  David shares why this is a perilous time for smaller regional banks and a golden time for online-only neobanks.  Then transitions into a discussion of what exactly Apple is up to in the financial services sector. Hint: it's a lot.  Listen to catch the hosts share their choices for “Who Won the Week”. Which straddle popular culture and local-digital.  At several points the hosts refer to conversations on previous episodes: Ep. 14 Examines the Collapse of Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) Ep. 16 Explores Adobe's AI Moves and Apple Pay LaterEp. 32 Asks Will Apple GPT Kill Siri & Does “X” Mark the Super App? This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. ##

In E33,  Co-host Mike Boland is joined by guest Co-host Jason Cross, SVP Product at Newfold Digital to bat around two important topics in local. First Mike and Jason talk about whether Google's experiments with an AI-tool for writing news articles is a net plus for local journalism.  The two then pivot to discuss whether Google's efforts to revamp its digital assistant with AI spells the beginning of the end for voice assistants like Google's, plus Alexa and Siri. The two also find time for some discussion of how AI is transforming the process of creating new businesses – from choosing a name to finding just the right domain.  Please be sure to listen to the full episode to catch the hosts sharing their choices for “Who Won the Week”. This week it's all about cars and toys.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

In E32,  hosts Mike Boland and Charlie Laughlin break down recent developments from Apple and Twitter  – Apple's latest AI moves plus X's (née Twitter) “everything app” ambitions.  Mike shares his thoughts on Apple's foray into conversation AI via Apple GPT. We debate whether this may finally (and thankfully) spell the end of Siri. Charlie argues that superapps fare much better in emerging markets, while consumers in North America do not seem to be clamoring for one app that does everything. While Mike points out that superapps offer value that explains why so many pursue this ambition. He calls it the “Three S's” – scale, stickiness, and sustainability.  Please be sure to listen to the full episode to catch the analysts sharing their choices for “Who Won the Week”.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

Episode 29 features Localogy analysts taking on Amazon's last-mile experiment and KKR's interest in BNPL. Mike Boland brings up Amazon's latest experimentation with last-mile delivery, this one involves having small businesses use remnant time and space in their cars and vans to deliver packages. Charles Laughlin then wonders why digital payments giant PayPal, also a leading player in buy now, pay later, has sold off more than $40 billion in BNPL loans to private equity giant KKR. And what this move says about the state of BNPL. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. On this episode, the hosts refer to recent Localogy content. Here are links for easy reference: Amazon Taps SMBs for Last-Mile Delivery Snapchat+ Reaches 4 Million Paid Subscribers

Christian Ward, Chief Data Officer of Yext, not only has his finger on the pulse of AI, but was talking about generative AI long before it became the latest tech topic du jour. Join the lively back & forth between Ward and host Mike Boland – two fast-talking tech geeks that speculate what's around the corner for AI & search.  What sits at the intersection of AI and Search as Google, Microsoft and others race to integrate it? And as the search king, is Google saddled with a natural innovator's dilemma when it comes to infusing AI. Spoiler alert: Ward wouldn't bet against Google. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com. Christian's Reference to Marc Andreesen's editorial “Why AI Will Save the World” can be seen here.

Episode 24 shares two issues of interest to the local commerce ecosystem. First, co-host Mike Boland summarizes some of the key outcomes fromMicrosoft's recent Build conference. The event focused heavily on Microsoft's recent AI-related product rollouts. These range from Bing to Microsoft's flagship Office products.  Then Co-host CharlesLaughlin raised one of his favorite topics, Buy Now, Pay Later. Specifically he raised how regulators in Australia have started regulating BNPL the same as any other credit provider, a move that could be repeated in the UK, US and elsewhere.  This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

Episode 21 of Localogy's This Week in Local Podcast examines two interesting trends at opposite ends of the spectrum in local.  First co-host and Mike Boland updates us on an effort by Amazon to extend its eCommerce footprint via Amazon Anywhere. This allows app developers, for example, to easily create in-app merch stores.  Then fellow co-host Charles Laughlin shares a trend he has recently noticed of converting underutilized downtown office buildings intro residences. This had once been considered nearly impossible due to structural and bureaucratic barriers. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, please visit Localogy.com.

Localogy's recent L23 conference covered a wide array of topics, from the evolution of small business use of video to how dropping valuations are impacting public and private companies in the local universe. And of course,  how AI will transform how we work.  This episode of Localogy's This Week in Local podcast again shares three voices from L23 offering insights on some of the  event's central themes, with commentary from hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin.  The voices you will hear from in this episode are Soci CMO Monica Ho, Circumference Group Chief Strategy Officer Luca Sechi, and Shark Tank investor/Waitroom Founder Vinny Lingham. This Week in Local is brought to you by Localogy. To learn more, visit Localogy.com.

Real time 3D is replacing mobile as the main environment for delivering transformative immersive experiences for retail brands. So believes Sara Oberst, Global Head of ATM and Retail Solutions at Unity Technologies.  Sara made these and other observations about how 3D is transforming retail during a fireside chat with Localogy Senior Analyst and This Week in Local Co-host Mike Boland.  Unity is a familiar name in the gaming industry. Its game engine is widely used by designers to create 3D experiences, particularly in mobile gaming.  Sara and Mike focus on how fast-evolving 3D technologies are helping retailers on a number of fronts.  These include cutting back on product returns, which cost retailers a staggering $550 billion last year, according to Sara. 3D is also helping retailers design store layouts more efficiently and eliminate the high cost of product photo shoots by using virtual photography.

Episode 17 of Localogy's “This Week in Local” podcast explores two subjects covered by co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin, Localogy senior analysts and writers for the Localogy Insider online publication.  The first topic, raised by Mike, is the re-emmergence of Amazon One, which uses biometrics to scan one's palm for everything from retail payments to checking into a concert. Panera Bread is now the latest company to integrate Amazon One, possibly signaling broader expansion into the QSR vertical.  This led to a discussion of why Amazon retail solutions like Amazon One and Just Walk Out (where consumers can skip the checkout line at the grocery store) haven't experienced wider adoption.  The second topic is the use of AI to improve the online meeting experience. The analysts specifically discussed Read AI's latest feature which boils down long boring online meetings into 2-minute “highlight reels.” The analysts explore whether the growing number of startups focused on online meetings can really change the business culture to make video conferencing more efficient and powerful. And make meetings shorter.  Episode 17 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Visit Localogy.com to learn more.

Ep. 16 of Localogy's “This Week in Local” podcast explores two topics that were top of mind for Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. This quick episode explores two subjects covered by the analysts on Localogy Insider. The first is Adobe's rollout of Firefly, bringing generative AI to the Creative Cloud. The analysts wondered if AI would soon be in the driver's seat for all content creation tools. The second topic is Apple Pay Later. The hardware giant announced this week that it is finally rolling out its buy now, pay later offering. Or is it? Apparently participation is now invitation only, with the full rollout still months away. One question the analysts ponder on the episode is whether Apple really needs the reputation risk that comes with getting into the dicey BNPL business. Episode 16 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Visit Localogy.com to learn more.

Ep. 15 of Localogy's “This Week in Local” podcast explores two topics that were top of mind for Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. This fast-paced episode hones in on two topics.  The first is no code. This was spurred by Yext's foray into the no code website builder space (You listening, Wix?) via it's new Studio product. This led to a brief but wide-ranging discussion of what exactly no code is and why it matters to local.  The second topic riffs on an article Charles read about the wisdom (or lack thereof?) of collectively training AI bots like Google's Bard by interacting with them. The analysts discuss whether we are creating the future we fear by doing so. Episode 15 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Visit Localogy.com to learn more.

The latest episode of Localogy's “This Week in Local” podcast explores two topics that were top of mind for Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. Mike looked at new measures from TikTok to make it easier for creators, including small businesses, to build compelling TikToks. Specifically by introducing a new sound library that makes it much easier to add sound effects, music, voiceovers, and more. Mike sees this as part of TikTok's broader efforts to make TikToking easier for small businesses. Charles then brought up the emergence of decentralized social networks. This is a trend popular with web3 enthusiasts and free-speech absolutists. The analysts doubt that these platforms, led by Nostr, will have the legs to take on big social, e.g., Meta, Twitter, Snap, etc. Mike even offered up a comparison to George Orwell's Animal Farm. Episode 12 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Visit Localogy.com to learn more.

This episode of “This Week in Local” takes on another big issue on the minds of Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. This episode's sole topic involves the quest for revenue diversification via new subscription products. The subtext being that having a single source of revenue, however lucrative, is an underlying weakness. Mike cites Meta Verified as the latest example of BigTech seeking new income streams via subscriptions. However, he thinks Snapchat+ is among the best of the recent subscription rollouts by the major social media platforms, e.g., Meta and Twitter. Episode 10 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Learn more at Localogy.com

This episode of “This Week in Local” tackles more issues on the minds of Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. Our first topic begins with Yext's quick action to roll out Yext Chat, a new conversational AI chatbot built on GPT3. Another discussion topic involves the recent wave of tech layoffs and their true impact on the broader economy. The latter topic references on a chart published by NYU Professor Scott Galloway, which you can find here. Episode 10 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Learn more about L23 here.

This episode of “This Week in Local” explores two topics on the minds of Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. One is a new well-funded startup that applies the ghost kitchen concept (kind of) to grocery stores. The other involves the emergence of tools designed to determine if a work product was written by an AI bot or the by the actual human being who was assigned the task. Episode 9 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Read more on Localogy.com

This episode of “This Week in Local” explores two recent data-focused stories covered by Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. One is new Yelp data showing robust new small business formation in the wave of the pandemic. The other involves new data from Foursquare that dispels some myths about the return to the office. Episode 8 of This Week in Local is sponsored by Localogy's L23 Conference, April 17-19 in Coronado Bay, California. Learn more at Localogy.com

This episode of “This Week in Local” tackles more issues on the minds of Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. One is the impact Apple's new self-service listings platform will have on the digital marketing ecosystem. Another is what Microsoft will ultimately do with its investment in Open AI. Learn more at Localogy.com

This episode of "This Week in Local” tackles two issues on the minds of Localogy analysts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin. One is the validity of claims that ad-supported media is either dead or dying in our new privacy-first era. The other is what impact will Shopify's decision to eliminate recurring meetings have on the future of work. Visit Localogy.com for more.

This episode of "This Week in Local” examines some widely covered topics of 2022. Co-host Mike Boland talks about “Metaverse Mania” and says it will be years before reality matches hype. Co-host Charlie Laughlin asks if the term "Unicorn" needs to be replaced. And if 2023 will be a golden age for startups. Visit Localogy.com for more.

This episode of Localogy's "This Week in Local” explores how artificial intelligence (AI) trends might impact local. First co-host Mike Boland explains generative AI and how it might influence local search. Co-host Charlie Laughlin then examines online chatter about ChatGPT and whether it might replace Google. Visit Localogy.com for more.

The second episode of Localogy's new podcast "This Week in Local" features another fast-paced conversation between co-hosts Mike Boland and Charlie Laughlin on Google's efforts to make desktop search more like mobile search via the addition of continuous scrolling and the seeming demise of ghost kitchens. Read more on Localogy.com

The inaugural episode of Localogy's new podcast "This Week in Local" features a fast-paced conversation between co-hosts Mike Boland and Charles Laughlin on Visual Search and Buy Now, Pay Later -- two topics the analysts frequently cover on our online publication Localogy Insider. Read more on Localogy.com

In this episode Daniel sits down for a conversation with two of his good friends Shane Groover and Mike Boland. This conversation revolves around Mike's ALS diagnosis over 10 years ago and what God has been up to in Mike's life since.

This week the hosts are joined by Mike Boland, CEO & Chief Analyst of ARtillery Intelligence! Thank you to our sponsor, Virbela! Don't forget to like, share, and follow @thisweekinXR on socials! See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

Enjoy spirited banter about the week's spatial computing news with Paramount Pictures Futurist Ted Schilowitz, Forbes Tech columnist Charlie Fink. The guest this week is Mike Boland.Listen to the podcast on Acast, Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and anywhere else podcasts can be listened to!Acast: https://shows.acast.com/this-week-in-xr-podcast/episodesSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0HudB1FDRn7S5KWSaQ8aF8Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/this-week-in-xr-podcast/id1526505913Check back here next week for your scoop on the latest XR news.Intro/Outro song:Composers Max Aruj and Jon Kaye See acast.com/privacy for privacy and opt-out information.

On today's Small Business Digest our guests are Mike Boland & Steve O'Brien

On today's Small Business Digest our guests are Mike Boland & Steve O'Brien

Mike Boland is the Founder & Chief Analyst of ARtillery Intelligence, Editor of AR Insider, Lead Analyst of Street Fight, and the President of the San Francisco chapter of the VR/AR Association.Earlier in his career, Mike was one of Silicon Valley's first tech reporters focused on the internet as a staff reporter for Forbes magazine starting in 2000. And he has been a tech industry analyst at top-tier research firms since 2005.Mike is a frequent speaker at industry conferences [such as Augmented World Expo, VRLA, and ad:tech. He has authored more than 120 market forecasts and in-depth reports on the tech & media landscape including social, mobile and AR. He contributes regularly to news sites such as TechCrunch, Business Insider, VentureBeat and the Huffington Post, and he gets quoted in publications such as The New Yorker, The Wall Street Journal and The New York Times.Mike is a trusted source and very insightful. That becomes clear in this conversation too.Here we explore the markets and market forecasts for mobile AR and smartglasses. We talk about Apple’s motivations and plans. And we discuss Microsoft, Google, Facebook, Amazon, and Snap, trying to guess where they might be going based on their motivations and past behavior.Mike draws lessons from the smartphone era and applies them to what’s happening today, and where we’ll be in 2023. He recalls it took several years for truly native thinking to emerge – where designers took full advantage of the interactions and capabilities that were unique to mobile phones.We also get into pass-through video versus optical see-through smartglasses.This was a really fun conversation, and I think you’ll love it.You can find all of the show notes at thearshow.com.

A prolific storyteller, who fought the likes of Battleship Bob Kelly and Dave "Killer" Hanson. Our guest on episode 43 of the Pro Hockey Alumni podcast is Mike Boland, an original member of the WHA Ottawa Nationals, a Calder Cup winner with the Springfield Kings, briefly a Broad St. Bully and, ultimately, one of Canada's premier cinematographers. Mike is humorous and personable and he's got captivating stories about hockey legends like Bobby Hull (there's a part 2 to the preceding story), Billy Smith, Butch Goring, Battleship Bob Kelly, Dave “Killer” Hanson, Gilles “Looney” Gratton, Johnny Wilson and many more. Mike doesn't hold back as he relives his journey through the big leagues, the minor leagues and European hockey.  All of out guests have been great — and Mike is certainly no exception. Mike's Book: "Through the Lens of My Eye; Adventures of a Documentary Cameraman"   ITunes/Apple Podcasts SoundCloud Stitcher Twitter Facebook Instagram Google Play Mark Willand Pro Hockey Alumni WHA Hockey Boston Bruins Alumni You Tube  

Former Kelsey Group analyst Mike Boland talks to Above the Cloud about how augmented reality will evolve and develop more practical applications, including for small businesses, in the coming months and years. We also settle the question of whether Pokemon Go is really AR.

Mike Boland has a company in California called Boland Communications that is a specialty manufacturer of precision and color-accurate video displays for the Television and Film Production industries. Displays are also used in museums, board rooms, helicopters, and vehicles. Mike's ministries are to his co-workers, extended family, church and community, in sharing what it means to live a fullfilled life through Christ's Love and understanding. Mike is also our newest board member for the Catch Ministry, Inc., and has contributed generously to our technological needs.

April Scott, mother of missing 21-year-old Alexis Scott, joins Lt. Mike Boland of the Peoria Police Department to talk with reporter Andy Kravetz about missing persons investigations.

This weekend, Norwalk's Theatre Artists Workshop is producing a series of 8 one-act plays at their studios in East Norwalk. First Thing Fairfield County host Allan Lamberti chats with actor and director Mike Boland about how the group began, his acting experience, and how hard it is to get "Hamilton" tickets...even if you know someone in the cast!

In this episode we uncover what is under the hood when it comes to the "numbers" Mike Boland is the Chief data officer of ARtillary. He was a reporter initially for Forbes and Other news outlets. Mike specializes in Mobile and focuses on emerging technology all over the world. Website: artillry.co Twitter: @mikeboland Business: @theartillary --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Mike Boland, Founder and Chief Analyst at ARtillry discusses what Apple's ARKit means for all of us, and how developers, content creators, and brands should be looking to leverage it. We discuss the scale of ARKit being launched in iOS 11, the top industries that will be effected, monetization and potential new ad formats in AR, and the new AR ecosystem being created by Apple, Google, Facebook, Microsoft and Snap. Full show notes can be found at: http://thevrara.com/podcast-posts/mikeboland

NewCity staff member, Mike Boland, preaches on Psalm 32 and the Story, Contrast and Remedy found there.

NewCity staff member, Mike Boland, preaches on Psalm 32 and the Story, Contrast and Remedy found there.

Preached by Mike Boland

Preached by Mike Boland

Preached by Mike Boland

Preached by Mike Boland

Preached by Mike Boland

Preached by Mike Boland