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Tanner, Paul, and Shep give their match picks and confidence points for AEW X NJPW's Forbidden Door: London PPV taking place on Sunday, August 24th at The O2 Arena in London, England Subscribe to the Kicking Out Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYDKPnB38xwC4UM_cPq95hw Follow Kicking Out Podcast on X: https://www.twitter.com/kickingoutpod Follow Tanner on X: @TannerLee92 https://twitter.com/TannerLee92 Follow Paul on X: @PaulZartman87 https://twitter.com/PaulZartman87 Follow Shep on X: @THESHEP27 https://twitter.com/THESHEP27 Follow Kicking Out Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kickingoutpod Like Kicking Out Podcast on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KickingOutPod Buy Kicking Out Podcast Merch: https://www.kickingoutshop.com/ Pro Wrestling Tees: https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/kick...
AI, IVR, and the Human Touch in Contact Centers Shep interviews Mark Rohan, Co-Founder and COO of Klearcom. He discusses the importance of balancing digital and human support, and how embracing AI and change can lead to world-class customer service. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: Why do many customers still prefer voice support over digital self-service or AI solutions? What percentage of customers are likely to leave a company after a negative experience with automated phone systems? How can companies use technology to detect and resolve customer service issues in real time? Why is it important for companies to offer both digital and human support options? What role does artificial intelligence play in modern customer support? Top Takeaways: The customer experience begins the moment you first attempt to communicate with a business, whether through a chatbot, a phone call, or an email. Every interaction creates the customer's impression of the organization. Be easy to do business with right from the very beginning. Tools like Interactive Voice Response (IVR) menus and AI chatbots can make the difference between customer satisfaction and frustration. Studies show that around 73% of people will avoid a business if they have a bad encounter with an automated phone menu. That means companies could lose customers before they even have a chance to help them. No matter how good AI and digital options become, there will always be moments when people want to talk to another person. AI and digital options may deliver the quickest response for routine or predictable issues that customers encounter day to day. However, when issues are urgent or sensitive, most customers prefer to hear a reassuring human voice. Businesses that stick with doing things "the way we've always done it" put themselves at risk of falling behind. Adapting to new technologies, even if it feels uncomfortable, keeps companies competitive and relevant. Customers don't just compare one business to its direct competitors. Instead, they compare every interaction to the very best experience they've ever had, no matter where that was. If another company makes things quick and easy, customers expect you to do the same. Companies must continuously strive to be proactive, responsive, and raise their own standards. Every issue that a customer encounters is an opportunity to be memorable and to create loyalty. If a problem occurs and is resolved quickly and kindly, customers may trust the company even more than if nothing had gone wrong. Plus, Shep and Mark discuss what world-class brands are doing differently when it comes to integrating technology into their processes. Tune in! Quote: "Everybody remembers the poor experiences, but very few people remember the good ones. You can't always deliver a perfect customer experience, but you do your best to deliver the best you possibly can." About: Mark Rohan is the Co-Founder and COO of Klearcom. He has 20 years of experience in telecom and IT, and is a strong advocate for seamless customer experiences. 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
Madonna Remixed (with interviews)Originally published as Episode #208 Everybody (Dub & Vocal)Borderline (Dub & Vocal)Lucky Star (New Mix)Open Your Heart (Extended Version)Express Yourself (Non Stop Express & Shep's Remix)Vogue (Bette Davis Dub)Music (Groove Armada)Ray of Light (Litemakr Guitar Mix)Shanti AshtangiI'll Remember (Guerilla Beach Mix)La Isla Bonita (Extended Remix)Keep It Together (12" Remix) 4 Minutes To Save The World (ft. JT & Timbaland)The Beat Goes On (ft. Kanye)Live To Tell (Epic Extended Version)Recorded 8/18/18 Time 75:00Interviews:The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson 1987https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CBCyHZsScoCNN interview w/Larry King 1999https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xaiN9cHDAI
Tanner and Shep discuss Adam Copeland and Christian Cage finally reuniting, Hook re signing with AEW, Ace Austin signing with AEW, an injury update on Eddie Kingston, the Forbidden Door card, and more! Buy Kicking Out Podcast Merch: https://www.kickingoutshop.com/ Pro Wrestling Tees: https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/kick... Subscribe to the Kicking Out Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYDKPnB38xwC4UM_cPq95hw Follow Kicking Out Podcast on X: https://www.twitter.com/kickingoutpod Follow Tanner on X: @TannerLee92 https://twitter.com/TannerLee92 Follow Paul on X: @PaulZartman87 https://twitter.com/PaulZartman87 Follow Shep on X: @THESHEP27 https://twitter.com/THESHEP27 Follow Kicking Out Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kickingoutpod Like Kicking Out Podcast on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KickingOutPod
In this episode of PAC Talk, Piet sits down with longtime friend and first-ever PAC coach, Shepherd Tate. From his early CrossFit days in Memphis to becoming Head Coach at Pharos Athletic Club, Shep shares the journey, lessons, and philosophy that shape his approach to programming, coaching, and community building. They dive into the evolution of PAC's training model, the importance of progressive overload, injury recovery insights, and how the 30-60-90 plan keeps members engaged and improving. Plus, a preview of the upcoming Monster Meet and why PAC's long-term programming stands apart from the quick-fix fitness trend.Connect with ShepherdInstagramWelcome to the Pac, please make sure you subscribe wherever you are listening to this show and if you loved this show please leave us a 5 star review in the iTunes store. It is the currency of podcasts and it really goes along in helping us grow our show.If you are in Southern California come train with us Echo ParkRedondo BeachIdyllwildPalm SpringsFollow Pharos, Piet and Emylee on Instagram for more fitness related content. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
David Shepard filling in. | Shep on the Texas and Ohio State game in week one of the college football season. | The Seattle Mariners are rolling in the AL and Pete Alonso sets a Mets record. | This Day in Sports History. |
David Shepard filling in. | The MLB is having a historical season with relation to 50+ homers. | Shep gets an answer to his MLB trivia question. | Pete Alonso is the Mets new HR leader. | Does the AFC West have the best collection of head coaches in NFL history? | The Brewers are on track to win 11 straight. |
David Shepard filling in. | Jordan Love has a procedure on his non-throwing hand. | Shep on the Colts QB situation | Shep takes your calls! | MLB trivia and the Chargers lose a key piece of their team. |
David Shepard filling in. | Why Aaron Glenn will set the right culture for the New York Jets. | Mike Vrabel has big expectations for the Patriots. | Shep gets fan mail. | Shep believes the Brewers will make a deep postseason. |
We were real close to having the All Girl Panel the Old Man and Eric have been wanting. We had HannyJ, LunarLina, LeeAnn and Amber May on the Panel along with Russ, Shep, Inspire and Torres. In Hockey terms we had a 4 on 4 Power Play!!! A full Call-In Panel and full chatroom was exciting!!! We covered a lot of topic's, had a lot of good conversation and a TON of GOOD TIMES!!!!! TOMORROW, Eric gives us the April Trivia Question and you will have a week to email in your answers for that $75 GFD Gift Card. Email to: theoldmanspodcast@gmail.com. Have a Good Day, remember Today is a Good Day for a GREAT DAY!!! Later Gators!! Get everything you need to start your own successful podcast on Podbean here: https://www.podbean.com/tomspodcastPBFree Visit our webpage where you can catch up on Current / Past Episodes and read Shonda's Blogs! www.theoldmanspodcast.com Contact us with Email at: theoldmanspodcast@gmail.com Follow us on: Facebook: The Old Man's Podcast @TheOldManOnPodbean Twitter: The Old Man's Podcast. @TheOldMansPodc1 Check into Podcast Overlord on Twitter and at https://overlordshop.com/store to see how they can help get your Podcast footprint on twitter to grow.
Transforming Transactional Employees to Loyal Teams Shep interviews Dr. Tim Currie, leadership expert and author of Swift Trust. He shares research-backed strategies on how organizations, whether remote or in-person, can build trust, a strong culture, and genuine employee engagement. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: What is swift trust? How does internal company culture influence customer experience? How can leaders build a followership? Why is trust important for employee engagement and customer satisfaction in virtual teams? How can organizations recreate the benefits of in-office culture for remote teams? Top Takeaways: Creating a strong culture of trust in a remote work environment takes much more than just assigning tasks and checking the results. Since people aren't together in the same place, leaders and team members need to go out of their way to engage, communicate, and build connections, just like they would in person. Swift trust is a concept that involves assuming your teammate is competent, reliable, and of good character. This is common in remote settings or short-term projects where you don't have time to build deeper relationships. This form of trust often remains transactional and surface-level unless further effort is made to deepen those relationships. Happy employees usually lead to happy customers, no matter where work is happening. The way employees feel inside an organization directly affects how they treat customers, whether employees are working in an office or from home. If workers feel connected and cared for, they're more likely to treat customers well. In an office, great leaders can "work the room" and connect with employees face-to-face. When everyone works remotely, leaders have to become visible in new ways. The number one indicator of trust in leadership is online availability. Seeing a manager's green light online or receiving an answer to a question builds confidence that leadership is engaged and supportive. This digital presence is similar to an office's "open door" policy, as it allows employees to reach out and get help even when they are not in the same location. "Followership" is the idea that employees want to be led by someone they trust and respect. This is possible in remote work when companies are willing to invest in teams mastering skills like communicating through video calls, chat platforms, and social media-style updates. When employees are scattered around the world, they still need to feel like they're part of the team. Regular video calls to celebrate successes, check in on well-being, or just have fun keep morale high. Plus, Shep and Tim talk about what is causing the "attention battle" in teams and how to win it effectively. Tune in! Quote: "The more leaders can authentically engage in digital channels and share more of themselves on a personal level, the more employees will feel they are sincere and genuinely reaching out. It's the closest thing to human touch we can find in a remote setting." About: Dr. Tim Currie is a leadership expert who has personally generated over $100 million in revenue and guided teams to more than $1 billion. He is the author of Swift Trust: Mastering Relationships in the Remote Work Revolution. 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
David Shepard filling in. | Shep takes your calls on the Brewers and Eli Manning | Justin Fields has a good first game with the Jets. | Your calls! |
David Shepard filling in. | Shep on the AP CFB Top 25. | Why Cam Ward will have a great rookie season despite the Titans bad track record with quarterbacks. | Tom Brady is honored with a statue by the Patriots. | Why was Eli Manning not elected to Canton this year? |
David Shepard filling in. | Shedeur Sanders proved a lot of people wrong including other NFL GMs. | Shep takes your calls on Shedeur Sanders. | Jaxson Dart has a pretty good NFL debut. | Is Brian Daboll on the hot seat? |
Tanner and Shep discuss the backstage report on Wardlow's possible return to AEW, some recent re signings, how AEW can get more exposure, this week's episodes of Dynamite and Collision, and more! Buy Kicking Out Podcast Merch: https://www.kickingoutshop.com/ Pro Wrestling Tees: https://www.prowrestlingtees.com/kick... Subscribe to the Kicking Out Podcast YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYDKPnB38xwC4UM_cPq95hw Follow Kicking Out Podcast on X: https://www.twitter.com/kickingoutpod Follow Tanner on X: @TannerLee92 https://twitter.com/TannerLee92 Follow Paul on X: @PaulZartman87 https://twitter.com/PaulZartman87 Follow Shep on X: @THESHEP27 https://twitter.com/THESHEP27 Follow Kicking Out Podcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kickingoutpod Like Kicking Out Podcast on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KickingOutPod
This time Kevin brings Chris and returning brother Ian a seemingly forgotten entry in the canon of the recently departed Hulk Hogan / Hollywood Hulkster, not to mention Christopher Lloyd and Shelley Duvall: Suburban Commando! Terry plays a commando alien named Shep who's stuck in the Valley, Christopher Lloyd is the feckless architect who takes him in. It's a tale as old as time! Technical issues mean some of the audio is less than uh...hulkamaniacal, recommend listening on increased speed to minimize that.
Shep tells you why Tarik Skubal will be the biggest storyline of the offseason, and how the discussion has already gotten out of hand before the season has even ended.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Turning Customer Data into Customer-Centric Decisions Shep interviews Dr. Jeff Dahms, Director of Customer Experience & Insights at Physicians Mutual. He talks about how organizations can use research and customer data to make better, customer-focused business decisions. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: How does data-driven decision-making improve customer service? Why is it important to understand the reasons behind customer decisions and behavior? How can organizations effectively gather and utilize customer feedback to improve service? How can businesses identify gaps in the customer journey using research and analytics? What is the "cycle of success" framework in customer experience management? Top Takeaways: When making decisions for your business, relying on gut feeling may not be reliable. Having data about your customers' behavior and collecting their feedback gives you better odds of providing the best experience for them. Improving customer experience is a continuous cycle. You start by collecting feedback from customers, then turn it into helpful data for your business. After that, share the information with your employees so they can better serve customers, and then look for new feedback from your customers about their experience to continue improving. Smart leaders and managers know how to choose quality over quantity when it comes to data. When you are collecting huge amounts of information, use the pieces that help you make better decisions or solve a particular problem. Traditional surveys can give you some feedback, but they don't always tell the whole story. Not everyone will respond, and sometimes you only hear from people who either really love or really dislike your service. To gain more accurate insights, consider combining surveys with other methods, such as interviews or external research. Collecting feedback is great, but it's only helpful when the employees who work directly with your customers understand and know how to use it. Break down complex data into simple, actionable ideas. This could mean additional training, clearer instructions, or helpful tips to manage challenging situations. Good research starts with good questions. Before collecting feedback, it's better to understand the specific problem or question you're trying to solve. When you define exactly what you need to know and why, it helps you choose the best research methods that will give you the most useful results. Great customer experiences start with a positive environment for your employees. Make sure your team has the tools, training, and support they need to do their jobs well. When employees feel valued and know how to help customers, service improves for everyone. Plus, Shep and Jeff discuss why it is important to learn from customers, even the ones who have already left. Tune in! Quote: "Do you know why your customers are making the decisions that they make? Understanding the 'why' behind customer choices is important if you want to operationalize a customer-centric philosophy in your daily business." About: Dr. Jeff Dahms is the data-driven Director of Customer Experience & Insights at Physicians Mutual, where he helps businesses leverage information to improve processes and customer outcomes. 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
Shep reacts to an "underwhelming" trade deadline for the Tigers, and takes a look at other American League contenders that perhaps got much better than the Tigers did.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
That's right, The Old Man's Podcast went PRIME TIME for a while, ENJOY!! We are liking this Prime Time Show more and more!! We had Rich, Eric, Russ, Shep and a special short visit from Cuebella! A Lady's touch is always welcomed!!!! Man we cover all kinds of topics in a Rapid Fire type of fashion so trying to keep track and say what they were is just to hard. But trust me, you'll enjoy listening to all of them. The Prime Time Show is going to keep going on for a while and we thank all the supports, listeners and followers for the AWESOME Support!!! Have a Great Weekend and we'll see you on Monday at 7am pst / 10am est for our Morning Talk Show!! Later Gators!!! Get everything you need to start your own successful podcast on Podbean here: https://www.podbean.com/tomspodcastPBFree Visit our webpage where you can catch up on Current / Past Episodes and read Shonda's Blogs! www.theoldmanspodcast.com
Balancing AI and Human Collaboration Shep interviews Matt Price, CEO and co-founder of Crescendo. He talks about how blending AI with human expertise can reduce inefficiencies, improve customer experiences, and transform customer service from a cost center into a key revenue driver. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: How can companies effectively balance AI automation with the human element in customer service? What are hidden sources of waste in customer service operations, and how can they be eliminated? Why is it important for organizations to move away from viewing customer service as just a cost center? How can businesses ensure a smooth transition from legacy systems to cloud-based customer service solutions? How can AI be used to enhance, rather than replace, meaningful human engagement? Top Takeaways: Customer service is enhanced when it combines the strengths of artificial intelligence with human capabilities. While AI can handle simple and repetitive tasks, making things faster and more efficient, human agents can excel in complex situations where empathy and emotional understanding are needed. Customer support is often seen as a way to deal with problems and mistakes. However, when done right, customer support not only keeps customers loyal and happy but also drives future sales. Companies sometimes attempt to save money by delegating most customer service tasks to AI. However, if AI isn't accurate or easy to use, it can end up costing more. You might lose customers who get frustrated, or spend extra time fixing AI's mistakes. Use AI that is the right fit for your organization and always have backup plans in place for when your customers need human support. Instead of waiting for something to go wrong, companies can use new technology to help customers before they even reach out. For example, companies can offer AI support to stay with a customer through the whole process of unboxing and installing their product. Organizations that prioritize customer service tend to achieve better results. Customer service isn't just something you "have to do." It can be your company's main way to stand out from your competition. Plus, Shep and Matt discuss how companies can move from deflection (using AI or technology to handle customer inquiries and divert them away from live agents) to customer engagement. Tune in! Quote: "AI is changing and improving all the time. Your business is changing and improving . You need to establish feedback loops to ensure that handoffs remain seamless for your customers and employees, and you never force AI to do more than it should." About: Matt Price is the CEO and co-founder of Crescendo, a customer service platform that combines AI technology with human expertise to deliver exceptional customer support experiences. 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
Big Shep returns to speak his mind about the current state of the hobby. He spent the last few years working full time running a card shop and setting up at some of the biggest shows in the country. He has a lot to say about how things are working behind the scenes.
It seems SSSOOOO Long ago! Enjoy this Blast From The Past!!! What a BLAST!!!!! We had a ton of Friends and Followers flood the Chatroom to join the celebration!!! We got several GREAT Call ins from Shep, Marley773 from "the Underground Shuffle Podcast" and "The Pulse In Anderson Nenana Podcast". So much was going on and being talked about you just have to sit down and listen!!! THANK YOU to all our Friends, Followers and Listeners! YOU ARE AWESOME!!!!!!! OH!!! And check out Shonda's NEW Blog on our webpage: www.theoldmanspodcast.com she posted it earlier today to go with the 600th Show!!! Have a GREAT Labor Day Weekend and YES, we will have a show on Monday!!! Later Gators!!! You can now Listen to all our Podcasts and read Shonda's Blogs on our Web Page!!! Leave a Review and/or Comment too!! www.theoldmanspodcast.com Follow us on: Facebook: The Old Man's Podcast @TheOldManOnPodbean Twitter: The Old Man's Podcast. @TheOldMansPodc1 Contact us with Email at: theoldmanspodcast@gmail.com Check out Podcast Overlord on Twitter and at https://overlordshop.com/store to see how they can help get your Podcast footprint on twitter to grow.
What's Next in AI, Self-Service, and Customer Service? Shep interviews Jay Patel, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cisco's Webex Customer Experience Solutions. He talks about how AI and innovative technologies are transforming contact centers to improve both customer and employee experiences. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: How is AI transforming the customer service experience? How is AI improving self-service options for businesses? Will AI ever fully replace human customer service agents? How can AI help reduce burnout and attrition rates among contact center agents? What risks should companies watch out for as they adopt AI in customer service? Top Takeaways: Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming the way companies and customers interact. With advancements such as smarter self-service options and AI-powered voice agents, companies can now resolve customer issues more quickly and intuitively. This leads to a more seamless and satisfying experience for both customers and customer service agents. Many customers still prefer to call customer service, despite companies offering self-service options. In this year's Customer Service & CX Research, we found that 68% of customers still prefer to talk to a live customer service agent. Some self-service options may not always be as effective as companies and customers want them to be. However, self-service is expected to improve as AI becomes more intuitive and capable of handling more complex problems. When it is easier to use and more effective in resolving issues, customers may grow to trust and utilize self-service more frequently. While self-service tools continue to improve, many customers will still prefer to speak with a representative, especially for complex or emotionally charged issues. AI-powered voice agents are set to become more advanced, handling conversations "just like humans," allowing customers to get resolutions without waiting for a human agent to become available. Customer expectations are higher than ever. They expect immediate answers and help when they reach out to a company. Companies must keep pace with this demand by ensuring they offer customer care options that are quick, reliable, and easy to use. AI just doesn't help customers. It also helps employees by making their jobs easier and more fulfilling. For example, AI is used to provide agents with call history, so customers don't need to repeat themselves, and it can give agents the information they need to solve the customer's problems efficiently. As companies use more AI tools, keeping their data safe and secure is more important than ever. Strong security policies and data protection help build trust, allowing customers to feel more comfortable using digital services. Jay Patel shares information about Cisco's WebexOne 2025 in San Diego, California, from September 28 to October 1, 2025. This event will highlight real-world customer successes and the latest innovations in AI-driven customer experience technology. Plus, Shep and Jay discuss the future risks and responsibilities that come with rapidly adopting AI in customer service. Tune in! Quote: "We've been speaking a lot longer than we've been typing, and I think the most profound technology change we'll see soon is that machines will be able to understand us through voice." About: Jay Patel is the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cisco's Webex Customer Experience Solutions business, responsible for product development, engineering, operations, and go-to-market. 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
Braylon Edwards and Matt Sheppard dive into the latest in Detroit Sports!
Braylon Edwards and Matt Sheppard dive into the latest in Detroit Sports!
Braylon Edwards and Matt Sheppard dive into the latest in Detroit Sports!
In Part 2 of our conversation with customer service legend Shep Hyken, we dive deeper into what it takes to stay relevant, resilient, and remarkable in a rapidly changing world. From surviving business shakeups like 9/11 and COVID to reinventing his entire speaking career, Shep opens up about how great leaders adapt—not by pivoting away, but by adjusting with purpose. We talk jazz, blues, and business—with riffs on improvisation, empowering frontline employees, and why amazing service is all about consistency. Shep also shares how he launched his own research to stay ahead of customer expectations and built credibility with brands like Disney, Anheuser-Busch, and IBM. Subscribe, leave a review, and join the VIP Community for exclusive content—plus instant access to behind-the-scenes insights from Shep Hyken and other industry legends. Cheers!
Meeting Customers Where They Want Shep interviews Dave Baxter, CEO of Solutions by Text. He discusses how text messaging has evolved into an essential tool for customer communication that improves the customer experience. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: How has text messaging evolved as a preferred channel for customer communication for customers? Why do customers prefer receiving communications from businesses via mobile devices? What role does trust play when a customer provides their mobile number to a business? How can businesses avoid abusing the privilege of texting their customers? What impact does timely and relevant text communication have on customer loyalty? Top Takeaways: Texting is fast and direct, and people are already glued to their phones for hours each day. 95% of texts are opened and read within five minutes of being received, making it one of the most preferred method of communication for customers. Customers now have more choices than ever, from the products they want to buy to the brands they want to do business with. If a company doesn't meet them on their terms, they are likely to simply take their business elsewhere. Giving customers what they want, the way they want it, is the best way to earn their loyalty. When a customer gives you their phone number, it is a sign of trust. For some people, a phone number is almost as personal as their home address or, in some cases, even their social security number. When that trust is abused by spamming irrelevant messages, customers can easily block a business… forever! Texting has evolved over the years. It's no longer just plain words in a message. Rich Communication Services (RCS) now allows images, video, branded messages, and even interactive options. Text messaging can help answer questions and solve problems more quickly than making a call or sending an email. Texting provides speed and accuracy. Depending on the interaction, it can also provide a level of anonymity and comfort to customers who may not feel comfortable talking on the phone. Building communication around customers' preferences helps businesses get their message across effectively and quickly. But remember, the customer will always win. With so many choices and tools, customers have the final say in how they do business. Be mindful of what you text, how often, etc. Don't abuse the customer's trust in you. Plus, Shep and Dave discuss why Millennials and Gen Z are willing to leave brands that don't offer text communication. Tune in! Quote: "Businesses are met with the challenge to send messages to their customers where they want to be met. 95% of text messages are open and read in under 5 minutes while only 22% of emails are actually ever read." About: Dave Baxter is the CEO of Solutions by Text, a company that helps businesses from the payment and financial space communicate with customers in a reliable, effective, and compliant way. Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and host of Amazing Business Radio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices