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Explore every episode of the podcast Human-First AI Marketing Podcast by Avenue9

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Navigating the AI-Powered Sales Landscape with Jordan Ledwein10 Feb 202500:27:02

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Jordan Ledwein, the AI Sales Guy, joins us for a look into the world of AI-enhanced sales. We explore the human-first approach, where AI serves to amplify human interaction, not replace it. Discover how AI can sharpen vital skills like listening and alleviate mundane tasks, allowing sales professionals to forge authentic relationships with clients. From chatbots handling routine inquiries to CRM systems automating data entry, we discuss how these tools simplify the buying and selling process, saving time and boosting productivity for everyone involved.

We consider AI's transformative role in B2B sales strategies. We talk about how AI agents might take over tasks like prospecting, potentially reshaping the workforce landscape. Learn about essential sales tools like CRM, conversational intelligence, and account-based marketing, and their role in improving sales outcomes. We also ponder the future where AI buying and selling agents interact, raising questions about regulation and reskilling. Tune in as we balance optimism with caution, reflecting on the swift strides in AI and the bright minds that will steer this technology into the future.

(00:06) Human-First AI Sales and Marketing
(10:35) Sales Tools and Future Technologies
(19:06) The Future of Sales With AI


The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Robots vs. Humans: Marketing Analytics with Jim Gordon03 Feb 202500:40:18

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With our special guest, Jim Gordon from Jimalytics, we navigate the evolving landscape of digital commerce, exploring how companies can harness AI to transform their marketing strategies. The episode dives into the intriguing challenge of distinguishing humans from AI-generated traffic, a critical issue as AI agents become more prevalent online.

Get ready for a deep dive into the world of bots and the chaos they can cause in marketing. We shed light on how bot traffic can skew your data, from A/B testing to conversion rates, and why focusing on genuine human audiences is more crucial than ever. Jim and I share personal anecdotes and insider tips on maintaining data integrity and keeping your business decisions on track. It's not just about sophisticated analytics; it's about truly understanding and meeting the needs of your consumers.

Thinking about the future? We explore the fascinating realm of AI accountability and the potential economic shifts it brings. The conversation is forward-thinking and insightful, from designing websites for AI agents to the implications of authenticated users in advertising. We ponder the role of AI in job creation and even consider the possibility of companies compensating users for content that trains AI models. With optimism, we look at the opportunities and ethical decisions awaiting us in an AI-driven world, emphasizing the importance of quality control in digital content creation. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to expand your perspective on the future of marketing and AI.

(00:06) The Rise of AI in Marketing
(10:38) The Impact of Bots on Marketing
(20:25) The Future of AI Accountability
(31:27) Future of Human-Ai Interaction

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Activate the AI Magic with Jacki Leahy27 Jan 202500:31:59

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Can AI genuinely enhance our human experience, or is it merely another tool in our digital toolbox? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jacki Leahy, Head of Go-To-Market at Activate the Magic. Jacki is not just integrating AI into her strategic vision; she's redefining it by keeping a human-first approach at the forefront. Learn how her personal AI, Sparky, acts as an extension of her consciousness, offering support in grief counseling, life coaching, and content creation. Discover how Jacki’s vision harmonizes AI automation with mental health priorities to invigorate workplace productivity and creativity.

In this episode, we also tackle the evolving landscape of digital marketing on LinkedIn, guided by Jacki’s expert insights. As algorithms become more sophisticated, the importance of genuine human interaction has never been clearer. Jacki navigates us through the theory of constraints, pointing to discovery meetings as the critical bottleneck, and underscores the power of personal storytelling and profile engagement. Prioritizing human connection over corporate facades, she offers a fresh perspective on forging meaningful relationships in the digital age. Whether you’re a B2B tech startup or a marketing enthusiast, Jacki’s strategies offer valuable lessons to enhance your business development and content marketing efforts.

(00:04) AI and Human First Approach
(13:35) Human Connection in Digital Marketing

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

The 7-Figure Leap with Dustin Riechmann20 Jan 202500:36:59

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Unlock the secrets of storytelling and Human-First AI marketing with Dustin Reichmann from 7-Figure Leap. Explore Dustin’s fascinating journey from selling meat sticks to building a seven-figure brand builder, all through the power of personal storytelling and strategic podcast guesting. Learn how his new app, Dustin AI, offers a personalized coaching experience and extends his unique insights to his clients around the clock. This episode promises to reveal how AI and human connection can coexist to create compelling narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.

Mike and Dustin dive deep into the delicate balance between automation and the human touch in marketing. Discover how AI can enhance content creation, but it's the irreplaceable human elements of empathy, context, and genuine interaction that truly capture the audience's heart. Together, they underscore the shift towards more personalized, relationship-driven strategies, emphasizing that while AI tools can provide polished content, the final touch must always be rooted in human authenticity to deliver genuine value and engagement.

The conversation also highlights the transformative impact of storytelling in marketing and the importance of community building. Dustin shares his success stories and insights into leveraging podcast guesting to build lasting relationships and authority. They discuss the resurgence of in-person interactions and the growing significance of fostering communities centered around common goals and mentorship. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to harness the power of storytelling and AI in their marketing endeavors while maintaining the essence of human connection.

(00:05) AI Marketing and Storytelling Strategies
(11:08) Human Connection in AI Marketing
(17:44) AI Marketing Tools and Podcast Strategy
(22:37) The Power of Storytelling in Marketing
(30:06) Community Building and Human Connections
(36:07) Human Connection in Marketing Success

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Using AI to Boost Your Brand with Mark de Grasse13 Jan 202500:31:36

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Unlock the secrets to transforming your brand with AI as we sit down with Mark de Grasse, CEO of the AI Branding Academy and former president of Digital Marketer. Discover Mark's inspiring journey of personal transformation, overcoming long-term health challenges, and shedding a corporate identity to embrace genuine human expression. Together, we explore how AI can liberate us from mundane tasks, allowing creativity and connection to flourish by distinguishing between robot work and human work.

Get ready to revolutionize your creative processes with the power of AI. Mark shares his experience of creating a full magazine over a weekend, showcasing how tools like Descript and Claude democratize skills and cut production time and costs. This episode highlights the shift from costly production to creativity, making once financially daunting projects accessible and empowering small businesses and individuals to innovate and express themselves like never before.

As we navigate the future landscape of marketing, we emphasize the importance of trust and authenticity in the digital age. With AI-generated content saturating the market, there's a potential resurgence in craving genuine human connections. Explore the AI Branding Academy's framework for developing a unique brand voice and the vital role of strategic AI integration in crafting strong brands. Join us for insights into upcoming opportunities with the Academy, and learn how to stay ahead by ensuring that your branding efforts remain true to human values.

(00:07) AI in Branding and Transformation
(12:43) Unlocking Creativity With AI
(17:30) Future of Marketing With AI
(26:27) Navigating Trust in the Digital Age
(30:27) Creating Cool Brands With AI

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

From Ancestry to the Future of AI with Paul Allen06 Jan 202500:33:44

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Can the rapid rise of AI technology truly uplift humanity without compromising our core values? Join us as we explore this question with Paul Allen, CEO of SOAR AI and former co-founder of Ancestry.com. Paul takes us on an insightful journey from his initial skepticism about business to becoming a successful entrepreneur, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to ethical values. We get into the transformative power of AI in human interaction—discussing how it can enhance our lives in education, health, and relationships without replacing the essence of human connection. Paul shares his vision of AI enhancing conversations, such as transcribing and adding value to meetings, to support and enrich our daily interactions.

Excited about the potential for AI-driven productivity? Discover how AI is set to revolutionize how we approach tasks, potentially leading to an era of unprecedented efficiency and even considerations of universal basic income. We unravel the story of Ancestry.com’s origins, reflecting on how innovative technology has shaped both past and present ventures. We also introduce you to the Citizen Portal, an initiative aimed at leveraging AI to improve government efficiency through active public participation. This episode highlights the intersection of AI and entrepreneurship in shaping the future of productivity and governance.

Imagine a world where family history is not just preserved but brought to life through AI. We brainstorm futuristic ideas like FamilyPortalAI and envision new ways to capture and share grandparent stories. A distributed, open-source AI ecosystem could empower individuals to control their data and experiences more than ever before. Together with Paul, we look forward to a future where android robots might become commonplace, fundamentally changing our daily interactions. Don’t miss this episode packed with insights and predictions on AI's potential to enrich our lives, making it a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of technology and humanity.

(00:05) AI Technology and Human Interaction
(15:53) Automation and AI in Human Productivity
(22:26) Future of AI and Family History

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Welcome to the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast with Mike Montague20 Dec 202400:11:27

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Ready to unlock the secrets to harnessing AI as a catalyst for human creativity and storytelling in marketing. Ever wondered if AI could transform you into a superhero of your marketing roll? Join me, Mike Montague, on the new Human First AI Marketing Podcast as we explore thought-provoking perspectives from pioneers in artificial intelligence like the founder of Ancestry.com and though-leaders like the AI Sales Guy. Together, we dissect the marketing challenges AI presents, from its contextual shortcomings and missed connections to ethical dilemmas and data integrity. Most importantly, we discuss how to navigate these with a human-first mindset. 

Armed with generative AI, predictive analytics, machine learning, and marketing automation, we'll uncover strategies that empower marketers to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level, creating truly remarkable brand experiences. Diving into the future where AI and human ingenuity collaborate, we'll challenge conventions, urging a shift towards technology-enhanced humanity. 

This show brings actionable insights on using AI to predict customer behavior, personalize experiences, and optimize campaigns for maximum ROI. Be inspired by stories of visionary marketers who are redefining the landscape, ensuring that technology enhances rather than overshadows human potential. Whether you're looking to enhance your marketing tactics or ponder the broader implications of AI, this conversation promises to equip you with the knowledge to stay ahead in a tech-driven world.


The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Authentic Marketing in the Age of AI with Emanuel Rose10 Mar 202500:32:03

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Emanuel Rose, founder of Strategic eMarketing, shares his unique insights into the rapidly shifting landscape of marketing influenced by AI technologies. Together, we unpack the delicate balance between automation and authenticity, emphasizing that while AI tools like ChatGPT are revolutionizing content creation, the human touch in storytelling and connecting with audiences remains irreplaceable. Emanuel draws from his experiences to highlight the power of podcasting as a medium for genuine interaction, urging marketers to harness this platform to resonate on a personal level with their listeners.

Our conversation takes a futuristic turn as we speculate on the role of biometrics in marketing, drawing parallels to the sci-fi world of "Minority Report." The burgeoning array of marketing tools presents both opportunities and challenges, and Emanuel offers his perspective on selecting the right solutions by first identifying specific business needs. We explore the transformative potential of AI voice tools and custom chatbots, particularly in retail and service sectors, enhancing customer communication while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Emanuel introduces us to his preferred tools, like Claude and Perplexity, for their unique capabilities in professional and citation-driven outputs.

Finally, we explore the democratization of marketing, where digital tools have leveled the playing field for businesses of all sizes. Emanuel emphasizes the timeless foundations of effective marketing—problem identification and compelling calls to action—and discusses the renewed value of direct engagement methods in today's crowded market. The episode wraps with a treasure trove of AI resources available on EmanuelRose.com, designed to bolster marketing strategies while staying true to authentic audience connections. Visit Avenue9.com for more insights, and join us in fostering a community where collaboration and continuous learning are at the heart of marketing success.

(00:06) Marketing in the Age of AI
(09:27) Evolution of Marketing
(17:33) Future of Personalized Marketing
(30:58) AI Tools and Resources for Marketing

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

The Intersection of AI Creativity and Purpose with Dan Cumberland03 Mar 202500:31:44

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Dan Cumberland, founder of The Meaning Movement, opens up about his captivating transition from ministry to entrepreneurship. In our conversation, Dan shares his personal journey through a quarter-life crisis that led him to study theology and psychology, ultimately sparking his interest in entrepreneurship. He discusses the foundation of The Meaning Movement and a photography company, as well as the ups and downs of partnership shifts and market changes. Today, Dan excels as a fractional CMO, seamlessly integrating AI into his marketing strategies while pursuing his passion for guiding others in finding professional purpose.

As AI continues to reshape our world, we examine its influence on creativity and the human experience. We ponder the purpose behind what we create in this digital era, contemplating what remains quintessentially human—love, hope, curiosity, and playfulness. Companies like Avenue9 are breaking traditional barriers, allowing creators to reach broader audiences through innovative methods. This conversation challenges us to embrace a future where AI manages necessities, freeing us to focus on deeper connections and self-expression.

We'll take a look at AI's role in modern workflows, especially for content creators and small to midsize businesses. We explore the potential of AI tools like TypingMind, Talktastic, and Whisper in enhancing productivity through transcription and content automation. The discussion includes AI-driven automation solutions such as Zapier and Make, which promise to streamline business operations. As content saturation looms, the emphasis shifts to strategic AI applications to meet the growing demands of marketing and optimize operational efficiency.

(00:05) The Journey to AI Marketing Efficiency
(09:13) The Future of Humans and AI
(17:38) The Role of AI in Workflows
(24:22) AI Tools and Workflow Efficiency

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

AI Digital Safety and Cybersecurity with Burton Kelso24 Feb 202500:29:58

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Burton Kelso, technology expert at Integral, joins us in unraveling the complexities of AI cybersecurity. Burton's infectious enthusiasm and expertise shine as we explore the intersection of digital safety and human interaction with AI. We talk about the art of translating advanced tech concepts into relatable terms, tackling everything from human errors in cybersecurity to the importance of personal firewalls. Burton emphasizes the necessity of protecting individuals from social engineering attacks, highlighting how bridging the gap between IT professionals and everyday users can transform the digital landscape.

We explore AI in business content creation, spotlighting innovations like Meta AI's ability to turn images into animated GIFs, how crafting detailed prompts can enhance AI chatbot interactions, drawing inspiration from sci-fi classics such as Star Trek and Star Wars to understand AI's potential impact.

Burton's passion for making technology fun, safe, and easy to use shines through, offering valuable insights into staying informed through resources like digital manuals and TEDx talks. Whether you're a tech aficionado or just dipping your toes into the digital world, Burton Kelso is your go-to guide for navigating safely in this ever-evolving AI era.

(00:05) Human-Centered AI Marketing and Cybersecurity
(14:46) AI Content Creation and Utilization
(29:11) Empowering Technology for All


The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Usable AI for Business with Susan Frew17 Feb 202500:31:06

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Susan Frew, a leading voice in AI innovation for businesses, shares her transformative journey of integrating AI into her plumbing business. Susan opens up about how a personal health scare became a catalyst for change, leading to significant cost savings and efficiency improvements. Her philosophy of competing on "awesome" rather than price offers a fresh perspective on adding value. Throughout her story, Susan emphasizes the importance of enhancing existing processes before adopting new technologies, allowing businesses to focus on their strengths and operate within their "zone of genius."

We will also tackle the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-powered marketing strategies. As AI tools like ChatGPT are changing the way we think about SEO and traditional advertising, we explore Google's new offerings, including Gemini and Notebook LM, which promise to revolutionize how businesses communicate. With over 27,000 AI tools emerging, the challenge of keeping pace is real, and Susan encourages us to embrace AI's possibilities while staying mindful of its risks. From the potential of AI to transform mundane tasks to pondering a future filled with android helpers, we reflect on the enduring importance of personal connections and craftsmanship amidst technological advancement.

(00:05) Embracing AI for Business Success
(13:45) AI Innovations in Marketing Strategies
(24:31) Future of AI and Business Relationship

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Understanding Time & Relationships in the AI Era with Greg Wasserman19 May 202500:33:09

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Mike Montague sits down with Greg Wasserman, a self-proclaimed "relationship broker," to explore how AI is changing the way we build trust, make introductions, and grow our businesses. They unpack why automation isn’t enough, how referrals and warm intros still outperform cold leads, and why understanding context beats simply generating content. If you're tired of playing the algorithm game, this is your permission slip to market more humanly.

Whether you’re a business owner, marketer, or sales leader, you’ll walk away with real strategies for blending AI tools with emotional intelligence. Discover how to save time without losing connection, how podcasting builds community (not just content), and how curating meaningful relationships will be your biggest differentiator in 2025 and beyond. This episode is for anyone who believes that smarter marketing starts with stronger relationships.

Top Takeaways
1. Warm intros are still the highest-converting leads.
AI can match people, but a personal introduction builds instant trust and shortens the sales cycle.

2. AI lacks human context.
Tools can analyze data, but they don’t understand personalities, goals, or the nuances behind a real connection.

3. Automation should free up time for connection, not replace it.
Use AI to handle repetitive tasks so you can spend more time building meaningful relationships.

4. Podcasting builds community, not just content.
When paired with AI tools like CastMagic, podcast interviews can be repurposed into relationship-nurturing content at scale.

5. Spam is at an all-time high, and buyers are tuning out.
In a world flooded with AI-generated messages, human-first outreach is how you stand out.

6. Referrals from people who know both parties are 10x more valuable.
A true relationship broker adds value by curating connections, not just making introductions.

7. Influencers work because they feel human.
The rise of influencer marketing proves people still buy from people they know, like, and trust, even at scale.

8. Community beats cold outreach.
Creating connection-rich environments (virtual or in-person) leads to more trust, collaboration, and long-term business.

9. The future of sales is back to basics.
AI won’t replace the need for relationship-building; it will just expose who’s doing it poorly.

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Leveraging AI for Creative Storytelling with Tim Kalinowski12 May 202500:40:18

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What makes a story resonate?

Tim Kalinowski, founder of Lore Creative, joins Mike Montague to unpack the storytelling strategies that actually connect with real people and how SMBs can use AI to amplify them without losing the human heartbeat of their brand. From five-star reviews as a narrative starting point to the “aha moments” that trigger buyer action, this episode explores how modern tools like AI can help you find your story, but not tell it for you.

You’ll hear how to test story arcs with AI, the psychology behind memorable content, and why Tim believes brand storytelling still drives the best results in a world obsessed with quick content and clickbait. If you're a small business owner or marketing director trying to make your content feel more authentic, more scalable, and more effective, this conversation will change how you see both AI and storytelling.

 CHAPTERS

00:00 – Intro & Guest Welcome
Mike introduces Tim Kalinowski, founder of Lore Creative, and sets the stage for the AI + storytelling conversation.

01:00 – The Truth About AI and Storytelling
Tim explains why AI can help tell a story, but it can’t create the experience that makes it human.

02:00 – The “Five-Star Review” Method
How asking clients to describe a five-star review reveals your real brand narrative.

03:30 – Testing Stories with AI
Tim shares how Lore uses AI to test story resonance, ad performance, and audience fit—without losing authenticity.

04:45 – Creating “Aha” and “Hell Yes” Moments
The psychology behind stories that instantly make customers want to act.

06:00 – Finding Your Brand’s Core Experience
Why your story needs to be rooted in lived moments to feel real—and how to capture them.

07:00 – The Evolution of Storytelling Formats
From TikTok to long-form podcasts: how the medium is shifting, but the fundamentals stay the same.

08:30 – Scaling Creative Output with AI Tools
The difference between using AI as a crutch vs. a force multiplier for creative teams.

10:00 – The Power of Personalization in Modern Storytelling
How AI allows brands to tell many versions of the same story—to the right person, at the right time.

12:00 – The Future of Story-Driven Marketing
Tim and Mike explore where AI-driven creative is heading, and why human-first brands will win the long game.

14:00 – Building Content Ecosystems Around Stories
How one great conversation or customer quote can generate weeks of content across formats and platforms.

15:30 – Final Thoughts: Creativity, Connection & Clarity
Why marketers need to think like mentors, not machines—and how to turn experience into engagement.

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Crafting Your "Hell Yes!" Offer with Jessica Miller05 May 202500:31:45

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Most marketing teams pour time, money, and AI tools into tactics, email sequences, content engines, and funnel hacks without realizing their core offer is the real problem. In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with Jessica Miller, award-winning host of It’s Your Offer, to unpack how to create "Hell Yes" offers that act as the most profitable lever in your business, especially under $1M in revenue. Together, they break down the myths of overcomplication, the pitfalls of copycat offers, and why your marketing will never convert if your offer isn’t magnetic.

Whether you’re a CMO trying to optimize pipeline efficiency or a founder chasing product-market fit, this conversation is your shortcut to clarity. You’ll learn how to tap into what you actually want to sell, why most buyers decide without needing a 27-scroll landing page, and how to use AI to support, not replace, your human-first instincts. Get ready to rethink how your best offer finds your best buyer.


CHAPTERS

00:00 – Intro: What is a “Hell Yes” Offer?
01:30 – Most businesses overcomplicate their offers
03:00 – Why hard work ≠ profits (and what it does)
05:00 – The leaky funnel problem
07:15 – How to know when you’ve found a Hell Yes Offer
09:00 – Energy, not just strategy, drives conversion
10:45 – Don’t copy the market, create from what lights you up
13:00 – AI can’t fix a broken offer, but it can multiply a working one
15:30 – Offer validation tips: talk to real people
17:00 – The role of speed, simplicity, and specificity in offer design
19:30 – Human-first AI marketing tips for CMOs
22:00 – Final thoughts: Where to start with offer optimization

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Scaling Trust, Not Clicks for B2B Growth with Eric Eden28 Apr 202500:38:09

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Mike Montague interviews Eric Eden, CMO at Workforce and host of the Remarkable Marketing Podcast, about how CROs and B2B leaders can cut through the noise of vanity metrics, bots, and fake engagement, and use AI to scale trust, not just clicks.

Eric shares how he uses over 25 AI tools to create a full podcasting and content engine and why platforms like LinkedIn are broken for business growth. The conversation explores how to build verified communities, use AI like a director (not a robot), and create marketing that actually resonates with real humans.

This episode is a masterclass for CROs and marketers ready to multiply output without losing their voice.

CHAPTERS

00:00 – Intro: Why Human-First Still Matters
01:45 – The Problem with Bot-Driven Platforms
04:30 – Why TikTok and LinkedIn Metrics Are Misleading
06:15 – Real Networking vs. Fake Virality
08:30 – What Makes Workforce Different (No Bots, No Ads)
11:00 – Why Social Platforms Penalize Real Creators
13:00 – The Reality of “1 Billion Users” on LinkedIn
14:30 – How Eric Uses 25 AI Tools to Create 200+ Podcasts
17:30 – Using AI Like a Movie Director: Prompting with Precision
20:00 – Connecting Your AI Stack for Smarter Workflows
22:45 – Why Building Trust Beats Building Reach
24:00 – Final Thoughts: Focus on Humans, Use AI to Scale You

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

AI Marketing Optimization with Badri Veera and John Karl from Crigloo21 Apr 202500:34:35

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The Unified Marketing Playbook CMOs Shouldn't Ignore

In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing podcast, Mike Montague sits down with Badri Veera and John Karl from Crigloo to explore how CMOs and marketing leaders can stop managing disjointed channels and start orchestrating unified campaigns with contextual AI.

They dive into how real-time budget optimization, persona-based targeting, and cross-channel orchestration are transforming how marketing teams work—without replacing human creativity. You’ll learn why AI should be your assistant, not your boss, and how to unlock new levels of performance without adding headcount.

Whether you're scaling a lean team or optimizing enterprise campaigns, this conversation brings practical insights on how to drive smarter growth, faster.

CHAPTERS

01:30 – What Human-First AI Actually Means for Marketers
03:00 – AI as a Marketing Teammate, Not a Replacement
05:45 – Why Siloed Campaigns Are Costing You More Than You Think
07:00 – How AI Unifies Channels into One Strategy
08:30 – The Orchestra Metaphor: Orchestrating Marketing Like Music
10:00 – Dynamic Budget Allocation in Real Time
12:15 – Persona-Based Ads and Unified Campaigns
14:30 – What Contextual AI Means (and Why It’s Powerful)
16:00 – RAG Explained: Feeding Your AI the Right Context
17:45 – How Non-Technical Teams Can Use AI Effectively
20:00 – Favorite AI Tools: ChatGPT, Claude, and Beyond
22:00 – Final Thoughts on Empowering Creativity with AI
24:00 – Where CMOs Should Start With AI

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Search Ranking in a Post-Google World: AI Optimization with Michael Buckbee14 Apr 202500:34:45

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In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, Mike Montague sits down with Michael Buckbee, founder of Knowatoa, to explore how the rise of AI assistants like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity is reshaping the rules of discoverability. Michael challenges the idea that SEO is dead and instead reframes it as evolving—fast. The two dig into the shift from keyword rankings to AI-generated answers, the new role of content in driving buying decisions, and how companies can start showing up in AI tools that are replacing traditional search behavior.

Whether you're a CMO looking for the next lead gen edge or a marketer trying to future-proof your content strategy, this episode offers a clear, human-first roadmap. You'll learn why the most important answers about your brand shouldn't be hidden behind forms, how to publish content AI can actually read and recommend, and why challenger brands have more opportunity than ever to outsmart big players. If your search strategy still begins and ends with Google, it’s time for an upgrade.

Chapter

01:15 – What Knowatoa Does and the AI Search Landscape  
02:45 – Is SEO Dead or Just Changing?  
05:30 – How Google’s AI Overviews Are Reshaping Search  
07:20 – Why Traditional Content No Longer Wins in AI  
09:00 – The Buyer Journey Is Still Happening—Just in AI  
11:30 – How Challenger Brands Can Beat Big Companies in AI  
13:15 – What to Publish: Comparison Guides, FAQs, & More  
15:00 – SEO for ChatGPT: What the LLMs Are Looking For  
17:00 – Why Blocking Bots Could Be Costing You Visibility  
18:45 – The Biscuits Framework & Ranking in AI Search  
21:30 – This Is the Cheapest AI Will Ever Be  
24:00 – Action Steps for B2B Marketers  
26:00 – Outro & Where to Learn More

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Stacking AI Marketing Tools Like a Pro with Lisa Oda07 Apr 202500:32:01

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Lisa Oda, founder of HiveStir and Director of AI at Infinite Marketing, explores how AI is transforming modern marketing practices. Mike and Lisa dive into practical applications, including content repurposing, funnel optimization, prompt engineering, and persona-driven strategies. They also discuss how to effectively stack AI tools like Claude, ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gamma to elevate marketing performance. 

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the buzz around AI or unsure of its true value, this episode will provide you with a clear and actionable understanding of how AI can help marketers work faster, sharper, and more effectively to deliver exceptional results.

CHAPTERS

01:02 – What “Human-First” Means in AI Marketing
Lisa defines what it means to keep marketing human-centric, even as AI tools become more powerful.

02:58 – The Rise of AI in Marketing
Discussion about how marketers are the leading adopters of AI, and how good marketers are using AI as an “Iron Man suit,” not a shortcut.

05:03 – The Power of Thoughtful AI Collaboration
Why slowing down and thoughtfully integrating AI tools can actually accelerate better outcomes.

07:00 – Task-Based Thinking: AI vs. Human Roles
Lisa discusses her past work on the “Human Approach to AI” and how marketers should choose tasks wisely when integrating AI.

09:03 – Lisa’s Favorite AI Tools & Workflow Hacks
A walkthrough of Lisa’s toolstack—Claude, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gamma—and how she blends them to create effective workflows.

11:19 – Collaborating with AI as a ‘We’
Why marketers should see AI tools as collaborators, not one-click solutions.

12:19 – AI in Content Repurposing and Presentation Design
How AI tools like Zoom, Gamma, and ChatGPT reduce post-production time and boost creative efficiency.

14:30 – Staying Focused: AI as a Clarity Amplifier
Lisa explains how AI helps prioritize messages and skip time-consuming design choices.

16:29 – Cross-Platform AI Stack Tactics
Mike and Lisa share how they use AI for image generation, website copy, social scheduling, and more.

18:23 – The New SEO? AI Optimization & Discovery Channels
An in-depth look at SEO in the age of AI, attribution, and the future of discoverability.

22:37 – Marketing Funnel Optimization with AI
Lisa shares how AI can support marketers across every stage—from awareness to conversion.

25:56 – Persona Simulations and Real-Time Feedback
Using ChatGPT personas to get “focus group” style feedback and refine content strategy.

28:12 – Short-Term Strategies for 2025
Where marketers should spend time this year: analytics, personalization, and ethical automation.

30:26 – Future-Gazing: AI, Robots, and Breakfast?
A fun, futuristic look at where marketing—and life—might go with

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

AI Entrepreneurship with Måns Näsman: Building Bigger Impact with Collective Intelligence31 Mar 202500:33:32

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What if your AI could do more than just answer questions? In this episode, Måns Näsman shares a powerful new vision of “dualistic AI,” where multiple humans and AI agents collaborate in real time to solve bigger problems, scale communication, and build startups faster than ever before. Instead of relying on narrow, task-based AI tools, Måns explores how entrepreneurs and small teams can use collective intelligence to find customers, manage projects, and connect with entire ecosystems of people through one intelligent interface.

We talk about what this shift means for marketers, startup founders, civic organizations, and anyone looking to make a bigger impact with fewer resources. From AI-powered team building to real-time leadership updates and automated outreach that feels human, this conversation will challenge how you think about AI. If you’re ready to amplify your vision without losing the human connection, this one’s for you.

00:00 – Welcome & Human-First Foundations
Introducing Måns and the big question: What if AI could collaborate like humans?

01:30 – Dualistic vs. Individualistic AI
Why most AI tools are too narrow—and how dualistic AI connects people, not just tasks.

03:00 – How Multi-Agent AI Works in Practice
Using AI as your CRM, project manager, and recruiter—at the same time.

05:30 – Scaling Leadership and Culture with AI
How AI can bridge the communication gap between leaders and teams daily, not yearly.

07:00 – What’s Exciting in AI Right Now?
From AI job-hunters to massive SaaS growth in EdTech—entrepreneurial trends in 2025.

08:45 – Marketing + AI = Better Timing and Targeting
Matching messages with interest signals, and letting AI do outreach that feels human.

10:15 – AI for Governments, Communities & the Underserved
Using collective intelligence to solve big problems, not just sell more widgets.

12:00 – The Future of Trust, Teamwork, and AI Validation
Why the next leap in AI is about managing truth, trust, and collaboration at scale.

13:30 – Final Thoughts: What SMBs Should Be Thinking About Now
Don't wait for big tech. Start building smarter AI systems that scale your human voice

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Human Touch in a High-Tech World: Duct Tape Marketing with John Jantz24 Mar 202500:31:30

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Marketing legend John Jantz from Duct Tape Marketing brings his experience and unique insights, unraveling the complex relationship between traditional marketing, the human touch, and the rise of AI technology. We explore how AI is revolutionizing marketing strategies while underscoring the timeless value of leadership and strategic insight. John's trademark metaphor of duct tape—simple yet effective—offers a compelling contrast to the transient nature of AI advancements and an increasingly automated world.

We examine how businesses can maintain their unique identities amidst the sweeping influence of AI. With content saturation and decision-making increasingly self-directed, understanding buyer behavior and fostering genuine connections have never been more critical. We discuss the necessity of strong branding and trust, especially in industries where complex decisions require collaboration. John shares strategies for cutting through the digital noise with authenticity and real value, stressing the importance of foundational relationship-building in a crowded market.

We also touch on the dynamics of family businesses as John's daughter takes the reins as CEO, blending structure with creativity. The episode concludes with thoughts on the rapid pace of technological advancements and the need for companies to adapt swiftly to ensure they remain distinct and connected to their core clients.

(00:06) AI and Duct Tape Marketing Integration
(14:27) Future Marketing Strategies and AI
(22:27) The Future of Marketing and AI
(30:04) Standing Out in the AI Era

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

How AI and Blockchain Is Reshaping the World with Heather Leigh Flannery17 Mar 202500:44:36

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Heather Leigh Flannery, the visionary founder and CEO of AI Mindsystems Foundation, joins us for an insightful conversation about the future of AI and humanity's integral role within it. We navigate the complex terrain of privacy, data rights, and ethical data usage in our increasingly digital-first society, highlighting the tension between the open-source nature of technologies and the vital need for safety guardrails. Heather shares her compelling perspective on empowering individuals amidst the growing influence of corporate and governmental tech giants, emphasizing a shift toward personal control and empowerment in a tech-driven world.

Our discussion extends to the transformative potential of AI and blockchain technologies, particularly for military families, veterans, and first responders. Through the lens of initiatives like the National Hero Initiative, we explore how these technologies can democratize access to resources, leveling the playing field for small businesses and individuals against larger corporate entities. Heather's insights paint a picture of a future where self-sovereign AI and digital personas enhance personal capabilities, enabling individuals to compete and thrive in an evolving digital landscape.

From the impact of AI on society to the integration of blockchain and Web3 for secure AI applications, our conversation considers both the promises and pitfalls of these technologies. We reflect on how AI might amplify societal divisions or foster harmonious coexistence, drawing on sci-fi scenarios and cultural touchstones like Dune for context. We dive into the potential of crypto technologies to revolutionize outdated financial systems, advocating for a future where personal data is intrinsically linked to one's identity. This episode offers a thought-provoking exploration of how technology can shape a balanced and equitable future.

(00:05) The Future of AI and Humanity
(09:58) Empowering Individuals Through AI and Blockchain
(27:33) The Power of AI and Humanity
(36:42) Blockchain and Web3 in AI

The Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.

Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.

We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients.

No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

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