Human-First AI Marketing Podcast by Avenue9

Send us Fan MailAI search is changing the rules faster than most businesses can react; this episode breaks down what that actually means for SMBs trying to stay visible and competitive. Mike sits down with Brittany Trafis to unpack the shift from traditional SEO to AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), where buyers are no longer clicking links but asking AI for direct recommendations. The conversation explores why this moment feels like the early days of search again, and why small and mid-sized businesses suddenly have a real chance to outrun larger competitors.You’ll hear practical takeaways on what’s working right now; from why old SEO fundamentals matter again, to how buyer behavior is becoming more conversational and specific, to what it really takes to “be the answer” AI tools recommend. The big idea is simple but powerful; search has moved from a list of options to a single trusted answer, and the brands that win will be the ones that build clarity, authority, and trust at scale.The Top Takeaways From This Episode Include:- AI search is still the “wild west,” which creates early-mover advantage.The rules are evolving in real time, so businesses that start experimenting now can gain visibility before the space becomes crowded.- AEO is simply about being found in AI conversations, not just search results.Buyers are asking AI tools questions directly, so your goal is to show up in those answers, not just rank on Google.- Old SEO fundamentals suddenly matter again.Things like keywords, alt text, and metadata are back in play because AI relies on structured signals to understand your content.- Content and technical SEO must work together to win.Strong content without proper structure, or strong tech without valuable content, will both fail to get you recommended by AI.- More high-quality content increases your chances of being selected.AI models reward breadth and authority, so covering your topic deeply and consistently improves your odds of showing up.- The competitive playing field has been reset.Small and mid-sized businesses can now outperform large brands because speed and adaptability matter more than budget.- Big companies are slower, which gives SMBs an edge.Less red tape means smaller teams can implement changes faster and capitalize on new opportunities sooner.- Buyer search behavior is becoming more conversational and specific.Instead of short keywords, users are asking detailed, preference-based questions that require richer, more contextual content.- Comparison and preference-based content is more important than ever.AI thrives on helping users evaluate options, so content that explains differences, pros/cons, and use cases performs better.- This is a rare moment to redefine your competitive set.AI is introducing new players into the conversation, so your real competition is expanding beyond who you used to track.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailMost businesses are sitting on their most valuable marketing asset and completely overlooking it. In this episode, Mike Montague talks with Joe Toscano, former Google insider and featured expert in The Social Dilemma, about why customer conversations, service calls, and real stories are the missing link in modern AI marketing. They break down how the explosion of AI tools has made it easy to create more content, yet harder than ever to stand out, and why authenticity, context, and ethical data use are becoming the new competitive edge for SMBs and midmarket teams.You’ll learn how to turn everyday customer interactions into a scalable content engine, how AI can analyze sentiment and surface insights that were impossible just a few years ago, and why the future of search and marketing belongs to businesses that capture and amplify real human stories. If your team feels stuck producing more content with fewer results, this conversation offers a smarter path forward; one where AI doesn’t replace your voice, it helps you scale it with clarity, trust, and impact.Top Takeaways From This Episode:- Customer conversations are your most valuable, untapped marketing assetEvery service call, sales conversation, and customer interaction contains real language, pain points, and proof that can outperform any manufactured marketing message.- AI makes it possible to finally scale storytelling, not just content productionWhat used to take weeks to turn into a case study can now be captured, analyzed, and repurposed quickly; turning one conversation into dozens of high-impact assets.- Authenticity is becoming the only real differentiator in an AI-saturated marketAs everyone gains access to the same tools, the businesses that win are the ones with real, human stories behind their messaging.- Better data matters more than more dataEthical, intentional data collection focused on real interactions creates value; while mass scraping and generic inputs lead to noise and mistrust.- We’re entering a new era where AI shifts from automation to insight generationTools can now analyze sentiment, context, and performance of conversations; giving leaders visibility they’ve never had before.- Search is evolving from keywords to conversations and contextThe future of SEO and discovery will reward businesses that provide real, experience-based answers instead of keyword-stuffed content.- Most companies already have the raw material for great marketing; they just lack the systemThe gap isn’t content creation; it’s capturing, organizing, and activating what’s already happening inside the business.- Ethical use of data is a competitive advantage, not a constraintTrust becomes a growth lever when companies are transparent and intentional with how they collect and use customer information.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailMost AI content today feels like fast food; quick, scalable, and forgettable. In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing podcast, Mike Montague sits down with David Dobrin, CEO of Original Voices, to explore a better way to feed your marketing engine. They break down the idea of a “human context layer” for AI, where real audience insights, not generic data, shape your messaging. You’ll hear how digital twins, human-in-the-loop validation, and audience intelligence are helping marketers move beyond AI-generated noise and into content that actually resonates. The big takeaway is simple but powerful; AI without context defaults to average, and average marketing gets ignored. This conversation walks through how to ground your AI in real human perspectives, create differentiation in a world where everyone has access to the same tools, and build messaging that speaks to actual people instead of broad personas. Think of it like upgrading from a guessing game to a GPS for your marketing decisions; clearer direction, better outcomes, and fewer wasted efforts. If you’re ready to scale your marketing without losing your voice, this episode will give you a practical roadmap to do it the Human-First way.If this hits close to home, it’s exactly what we help SMBs solve at Avenue9; turning AI into a system that amplifies your voice, not replaces it. Let’s build your Human-First AI Marketing® engine together.Top Takeaways From This Episode:- AI without human context creates generic outputWhen models lack real audience insight, they default to “average,” which leads to content that blends in and fails to connect.- Differentiation is now a data problem, not a creativity problemEveryone has access to the same AI tools, so your competitive edge comes from unique audience inputs and perspectives, not just better prompts.- Relevance beats volume every timeAI can produce endless content, but without grounded audience understanding, more content just means more noise instead of more impact.- The “human context layer” is the missing ingredient in AI marketingFeeding AI real opinions, preferences, and feedback from actual people transforms outputs from guesses into informed messaging.- Human-in-the-loop systems outperform fully automated AIWhen real people train, review, and validate AI outputs, the quality and trustworthiness of the content increases significantly.- Digital twins can scale audience research in a modern wayInstead of static personas or surveys, AI-powered representations of real people provide dynamic, ongoing insight into what audiences think and feel.- AI should amplify human perspective, not replace itThe goal isn’t synthetic personas or automation for its own sake; it’s using AI to extend real human insight at scale.- Most AI content fails because it “reverts to the mean”Without intentional input, AI produces safe, middle-of-the-road ideas that don’t speak directly to any specific audThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailMost businesses are treating AI like a vending machine; type in a prompt, get an answer, and hope it works. In this episode, Mike sits down with T. Renee Smith to unpack why that approach falls flat and what it really takes to make AI work in the real world. They explore the shift from seeing AI as just another tool to treating it like a strategic partner; one that needs training, context, and leadership to deliver meaningful results. From the differences in how people approach AI to the biggest misconceptions holding businesses back, this conversation brings a practical, human-first lens to a very noisy topic.For SMB owners and marketing leaders, the takeaway is clear; better results don’t come from better prompts alone. They come from better strategy, clearer positioning, and a deeper understanding of your audience before AI ever enters the picture. You’ll learn why generic inputs lead to generic outputs, how to avoid over-trusting AI-generated plans, and where human insight still makes the biggest impact. If your team feels overwhelmed, underwhelmed, or stuck in experimentation mode with AI, this episode offers a smarter path forward; one that helps you scale your marketing without losing your voice or your edge.Top Takeaways From This Episode:AI is more than a tool; it becomes a strategic partner when you train it.Most businesses stay stuck because they treat AI like software instead of something that learns how they think, decide, and operate.Strategy must come before tools in any AI implementation.The right tool only works when it’s aligned to your goals, audience, and business context.Generic prompts create generic results.AI pulls from broad data unless you train it with your specific voice, market, and positioning.AI is not just ChatGPT; it’s a full ecosystem of specialized capabilities.Different tools serve different purposes like research, planning, automation, and execution.You are still the expert; AI is not the final authority.Outputs need to be validated, refined, and guided by human judgment and experience.AI can hallucinate or deliver outdated information if not guided properly.Context, constraints, and up-to-date inputs are required to get reliable results.Many people either fear AI or over-trust it; both are costly mistakes.The right mindset positions AI as an amplifier of your skills, not a threat or a shortcut.Different people approach AI differently; some focus on outputs, others on integration.The most effective users balance both by connecting results to real-world workflows.AI success comes from training it on your business, not just asking it questions.Feeding it your offers, audience, and insights turns it into a true extension of your team.The real opportunity with AI is leveling up your thinking, not just speeding up tasks.Businesses that improve strategy alongside AI adoption see the biggeThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailMost businesses are using AI to move faster, create more content, and keep up with the noise. The problem is that speed without differentiation just amplifies average. In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with Jonathan Aberman to unpack a smarter way forward: treating originality as a measurable, strategic advantage in a world where AI is trained to produce sameness. They explore why creativity alone isn’t enough, how AI can mimic “good” marketing, and why the real edge comes from producing ideas, insights, and connections that stand apart.For SMB owners and marketing leaders, the takeaway is practical and powerful. Your growth doesn’t come from using more tools; it comes from sharpening your unique point of view and using AI to scale it. You’ll learn how to rethink creativity as an outcome, how to identify where your marketing is blending in, and how to build a system that amplifies your voice instead of replacing it. If your content feels busy but not effective, this conversation will help you shift from sounding like everyone else to becoming the signal your market actually notices.The Top Takeaways From This Episode:- Originality is the real competitive advantage in an AI worldAI is trained on existing data, which means it naturally produces average outputs; growth comes from ideas that break away from that baseline.- Creativity isn’t the goal; originality is the outcome that mattersCreativity is the process, but what actually drives value in business is producing something meaningfully different and useful.- AI can mimic creativity, but it struggles to produce true differentiationIt generates polished, familiar ideas; it rarely creates the kind of unique thinking that stands out in a crowded market.- Most traditional ways of measuring creativity are now obsoleteStandard tests and frameworks can be gamed by AI, which means businesses need new ways to evaluate human contribution and thinking.- Originality can be measured based on the uniqueness of outputThe focus shifts from how you think to what you produce; the distance between ideas becomes a signal of originality.- Every human has a unique form of originalitySome people invent new ideas, others connect existing ones; both create value and differentiation in different ways.- AI creates sameness; humans create contrastWhen everyone uses the same tools the same way, everything starts to look identical; human perspective is what breaks the pattern.- The future is human + AI collaboration, not competitionThe advantage comes from combining AI’s speed with human judgment, instinct, and originality.- You can benchmark human thinking against AI for the first timeThis creates a new opportunity to see where your team actually adds value beyond automation.- The biggest risk isn’t AI replacing you; it’s becoming indistinguishableBusinesses that rely on generic, AI-driven content will blend in; thosThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mike Montague talks with Dan Baird of Wrench AI about why the future of marketing belongs to businesses that can target the right people, personalize the right message, and prove what is actually working. They unpack the shift from generic AI content and mass outreach to smarter systems built on lead scoring, behavioral signals, personality-driven messaging, and better audience research. The conversation makes a strong case that hyper-targeting and hyper-personalization are not just shiny tactics; they are how SMBs and midmarket companies can reduce waste, improve conversions, and compete far above their weight class. Mike and Dan also explore the bigger themes behind this shift: why AI shortcuts stop working once everyone finds them, why authenticity still beats scale, and why better marketing starts with understanding who to talk to, what to say, and how to say it. They share practical takeaways on using AI to make stronger decisions, improve message-market fit, and build relationship-driven growth instead of blasting the world and hoping for 1%. For owners, marketing leaders, and growth teams, this episode is a smart look at how smaller, more focused companies can win in an AI-first market. Top Takeaways From This Episode:AI stops being a shortcut the moment everyone uses the same trickDan’s point is that novelty fades fast, so the real advantage comes from better thinking, better systems, and adapting faster than the crowd. The best marketing starts with better researchHe argues that strong sales and marketing come from asking better questions, understanding the buyer deeply, and shaping the message to what the audience needs to hear. Hyper-personalization beats generic AI contentInstead of sounding polished but bland, messaging should adapt to the buyer’s personality, preferences, and decision style to reduce friction and improve response rates. Who to talk to matters as much as what to sayDan emphasizes machine learning-based targeting that identifies better-fit prospects, especially early adopters and high-margin buyers, before teams waste effort on everyone else. Better targeting creates better economicsHis “bigger, fewer, better” idea is that speaking to fewer, better-fit prospects can outperform mass outreach because it improves conversion quality and reduces wasted spend. Reliable ROI needs real data underneath the AIHe warns that LLMs can sound smart while making things up, so marketers need lead-score tables, logic, and measurable systems behind the output.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailMost businesses are sprinting into AI, cranking out more content, launching more automations, and moving faster than ever. The problem is, speed doesn’t fix a broken foundation. In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with Carmela Fortin to unpack the “pre-AI layers” most teams skip; the human factors like clarity, alignment, buyer psychology, and real conversations that actually determine whether your marketing works.You’ll learn why more AI content often leads to fewer results, how to spot the hidden gaps in your strategy that data alone can’t reveal, and what high-performing teams are doing differently to win in a fast-changing market. If your team feels busy but not effective, this conversation will help you slow down just enough to choose a better direction, so AI becomes an amplifier of your strategy, not a distraction from it.Top TakeawaysAI won’t fix a broken marketing foundation: If your messaging, goals, and strategy aren’t clear before AI, you’ll just scale confusion faster instead of results. The most important marketing signals aren’t in your data: Buyer anxiety, hesitation, and internal team readiness often drive decisions more than anything your dashboards can measure. Speed creates activity; clarity creates outcomes: Moving faster with AI feels productive, but without direction it leads to wasted effort and misaligned campaigns. Vanity metrics hide the real story: Traffic, clicks, and conversions don’t tell you why something worked; real insight comes from conversations and context. Human conversations are your biggest competitive advantage: Teams that actively talk to customers, ask better questions, and listen deeply outperform those relying only on automation. AI can amplify bad decisions just as easily as good ones: Poor inputs, weak strategy, or misaligned goals get scaled just as quickly as strong ones. Most teams are optimizing for outputs instead of outcomes: Creating more content isn’t the goal; creating meaningful engagement and business impact is. Alignment can’t be automated: You can’t shortcut team buy-in, internal clarity, or customer understanding with tools; those have to be built intentionally. Marketing success starts with better questions, not better prompts: The teams winning right now are asking deeper questions about their buyers, not just trying to generate better AI outputs. The future belongs to teams that blend human insight with AI efficiency: The edge isn’t choosing AI or human strategy; it’s knowing how to combine both in a way that builds trust and drives action.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailMost businesses are producing more content than ever… and getting less response. Why? Because somewhere between automation and scale, they lost the one thing that actually converts; their voice. In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with Rachel Minion to unpack the real challenge of marketing in the age of AI: how to grow without sounding like everyone else. From the “AI slider” between human and machine to the rise of robotic outreach and creepy personalization, this conversation gets honest about what’s working, what’s not, and why authenticity is becoming your biggest competitive advantage.You’ll learn how to use AI as an amplifier instead of a replacement, how to build marketing systems that still feel personal, and why trust; not volume; is the real growth lever for SMBs and midmarket teams. If your marketing feels like a vending machine instead of a conversation, this episode will help you reset your approach and start creating content, outreach, and experiences that people actually want to engage with.Top TakeawaysAuthenticity is a discipline, not a default: You have to actively train and refine AI outputs to match your voice; if it doesn’t sound like you, it doesn’t ship. Bad automation is obvious and instantly ignored: Buyers can spot templated, scraped, or mass-personalized outreach immediately; it erodes trust faster than it creates leads. Relevance beats scale every time: A simple, human “just checking in” message outperforms high-volume automation when it feels real and intentional. You don’t need millions of leads; you need the right ones: High-volume outreach can work in theory, but it’s inefficient and unsustainable for most SMBs without massive resources. Build the business you actually want to run: Scaling without intention leads to a job you don’t enjoy; clarity on who you serve and how you serve them changes everything. Your positioning drives everything downstream: When your offer, audience, and messaging are aligned, your marketing, sales, and referrals start working together naturally. Your last sale should help you get your next sale: Strong client experience and clear outcomes create momentum; referrals and repeat business become your growth engine. Trying to serve everyone breaks your scalability: Broad targeting creates operational chaos; focus allows you to build repeatable systems and hire effectively. The right clients make growth easier, not harder: When your offer fits your audience, retention increases, referrals grow, and marketing feels lighter instead of forced. Authenticity creates a pattern interrupt in a noisy market: Even imperfect, human moments stand out more than polished, generic AI content; people respond to realness.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailArtificial intelligence is moving fast; faster than most business leaders realize. In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, Mike Montague sits down with AI researcher Dr. Craig Kaplan to explore what may be the next major shift in technology: the transition from AI as a simple tool to something closer to an intelligent entity. The conversation tackles the big questions people are asking right now: Will AI become smarter than humans? How quickly could that happen? And what does it mean for businesses navigating the AI revolution?Along the way, Mike and Craig explore the real risks and opportunities of advanced AI, including the difference between the “Terminator scenario” and the “Iron Man scenario,” the race between governments and tech companies to build more powerful systems, and why many experts believe AI development is accelerating faster than expected. For SMB leaders, marketers, and curious innovators, this episode offers a chance to step back and see the bigger picture. You’ll walk away with a clearer understanding of where AI is heading, what superintelligence could mean for society, and why the choices we make today will shape how humans and intelligent machines work together in the future.Top TakeawaysAI has evolved through three major phases. It moved from rule-based symbolic systems to machine learning and now into the emerging era of autonomous AI agents.We are shifting from tools to intelligent entities. Modern AI systems are beginning to act more like independent intelligences that can take actions and make decisions.Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) is the next milestone. AGI refers to AI capable of performing any cognitive task at the level of an average human.Artificial Superintelligence (ASI) may follow quickly. Once AI reaches general intelligence, it could rapidly surpass humans across many fields.Many experts believe the risk of catastrophe is non-zero. Poorly aligned superintelligence could pose serious risks if development continues without safeguards.The biggest danger may come from the AI arms race. Nations and tech companies are competing to build more powerful systems, making it difficult to slow development.Regulating AI will be harder than past technologies. Because AI is widely distributed, traditional regulation models may struggle to keep up.Advanced AI will likely develop goals and values. The values embedded in these systems will shape how they interact with humanity.The future could resemble the “Terminator” or “Iron Man” scenario. Outcomes depend on whether AI systems are aligned with human interests.The choices we make now matter. Today’s research, safety standards, and design decisions will determine whether AI becomes humanity’s greatest tool or its greatest risk.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Raj Singh, VP of New Products at Mozilla, breaks down the “ownership economy”; a world where starting a business is getting simpler, faster, and cheaper because the builder toolkit keeps losing friction. You can spin up a real brand presence quickly, look professional early, and test ideas without burning months on dev or a big stack of services. Raj also gets blunt about what actually wins once “anyone can build anything”: trust and distribution. He explains why the noise is exploding, why old growth tactics get less reliable, and why reputation and taste matter more than ever when AI output trends generic. For SMB owners, the takeaway is practical; pick one AI tool and start, map your day-to-day work, then ask AI to help you reclaim time and focus on what makes you distinctly you.Top TakeawaysThe “ownership economy” is accelerating; it is now genuinely easier to start a business fast, look professional early, and spend less doing it. When anyone can build anything, trust and distribution become the real bottlenecks; product alone does not guarantee growth anymore. The signal-to-noise problem is getting worse; SMBs win by building credibility and becoming a clear “signal” in a sea of generic output. Paid acquisition and PR are less reliable in high-noise markets; brand and reputation do more heavy lifting than they used to. AI output tends to average out into “generic”; your taste and judgment are the differentiators that keep your work from looking like everyone else’s. “Less features” can be a strategy; simpler products are easier to understand, adopt, and market. For non-technical SMB owners, the best first step is picking one AI tool and using it daily; tool sprawl kills momentum. To build a moat, look for advantages big platforms cannot copy quickly; proprietary data, cross-platform needs, and workflow depth are strong candidates. Multiplayer and sharing experiences can be defensible; teams and families create stickiness that basic “native” features often do poorly. As AI gets more integrated into real workflows, trust and guardrails matter more; automation without safeguards can create expensive mistakes.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Human-First AI Marketing® Podcast, Mike Montague sits down with Brett Farmiloe, CEO of Featured.com and Help a Reporter Out (HARO), to talk about the real PR opportunity most small and mid-market companies are missing in 2026. You’ll learn how getting featured in credible media outlets isn’t just great for brand awareness, but it’s also how you get cited in AI models, improve your SEO, and build the trust that drives high-value sales conversations.From the rise of reactive PR to the surprising ways AI is reshaping journalism, this conversation breaks down how modern PR actually works, and how SMBs can use AI tools without sounding like them. You’ll hear actionable tips on pitching reporters, showing up with original insight, and why getting quoted by a human is the best way to be found by machines. If you want smarter exposure without selling your soul to algorithms, this episode is your blueprint.PR is evolving & reactive PR is where SMBs should start. Instead of blasting press releases, look for in-progress stories where journalists are already asking for sources.Small businesses can now use AI to scale media outreach. AI tools can match your expertise with relevant media opportunities and even help draft responses so you're not starting from scratch.Generative AI can’t replace original thought. Journalists want human insight, not ChatGPT output; Brett’s platforms detect AI-generated content and surface real voices.Your media mentions feed your future search and AI visibility. Getting quoted in trusted outlets increases your odds of being referenced in AI models and cited in search results.Only pitch where you’re a perfect fit. Relevance, timeliness, and helpfulness matter more than hype; follow instructions, respond fast, and be genuinely useful.AI doesn’t write your story, but it can help find the right audience. Let AI do the heavy lifting of filtering through thousands of journalist requests, so you can show up where it counts.Press isn't dead; it's just decentralized. Authority is now earned across podcasts, Substacks, newsletters, and traditional media. PR today means showing up across all of them.Original human content will only get more valuable. As AI slop floods the internet, real, expert insights become a premium commodity for both journalists and machines.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when AI meets immigration, one of the most complex, emotional, and high-stakes journeys in someone’s life? In this episode, Mike Montague talks with Grant Frazier and Ryan Bradley, co-founders of Global Entry Hub, about how they’re using AI to make immigration support more accessible, trustworthy, and human. You’ll hear how they built a multilingual AI assistant that guides people through global immigration processes, and why accuracy, empathy, and trust had to come before speed or scale.This conversation goes far beyond immigration. It’s a masterclass for marketers and business leaders in what not to do with AI, and how to build smarter systems that actually serve people. If you’ve struggled with AI content that feels robotic, tools that underdeliver, or marketing automation that breaks trust, you’ll get fresh insight here. From hallucinating chatbots to real-world data architecture, Grant and Ryan share lessons every SMB leader should hear before launching their next AI initiative.Top Takeaways:• AI should be scoped with precision rather than speed. Trying to build broad, general-purpose tools leads to confusion and a loss of trust, especially in high-stakes industries.• Trust is earned through constraint, not creativity. Their AI assistant only answers what it knows with certainty, which is critical when people's futures are on the line.• Accuracy is more important than automation. A wrong answer in immigration isn’t just a typo. It could cost someone time, money, or even legal status.• Data infrastructure matters more than the UI. Behind their AI agent “Mira” is a web of scrapers, data lakes, APIs, and logic rules that make her reliable.• Hallucinations aren’t just a tech issue, but a human one. Users must trust what they’re being told. Without that, your AI becomes a liability rather than an asset.• Global audiences need local nuance. Many AI tools reflect a Western bias in training data; true global support requires cultural and linguistic adaptation.• Human support is still essential in emotional customer journeys. For something as personal as immigration, no AI can replace the empathy and assurance of a real person.• Don’t market your AI before you prove it works. Early “AI-first” marketing fell flat until it was paired with human follow-up and refined positioning.• Governments move slowly. Startups don’t have to. While governments may take 5–10 years to modernize, startups can fill urgent gaps now if they build responsibly.• The biggest risk in tech is overpromising. Most AI failures in business come from trying to do too much, too fast, without clear constraints or user understanding.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing® podcast, Mike Montague talks with Bryan Harris, founder of Growth Tools, about the fine line between automation and authenticity. Together, they explore how AI is transforming client acquisition, coaching, small business marketing, and why human connection is still the most valuable asset in your business. If you've ever wondered when to use AI and when to pick up the phone, this one’s for you.Bryan shares how Growth Tools uses AI to reduce repetitive work, sharpen offers, and help SMBs solve their biggest bottleneck: getting more clients. But he doesn’t hold back on where AI falls short; especially when it comes to building trust, delivering hard truths, and guiding real transformation. This isn’t about shiny tools or fear-based hype. It’s a grounded, practical conversation on scaling the right things, for the right people, in the right way.Top TakeawaysAI is a great assistant, not a great coach.While AI can speed up repetitive tasks, it can’t replace the emotional depth and trust of a real human conversation.People don’t follow prompts; they follow people they trust.Human connection is still the strongest influence in decision-making, especially in coaching and high-stakes buying.Your offer is the sharpest growth tool you have.A compelling, clearly defined offer outperforms fancy funnels or tactics every time.AI can make your systems smarter, but not your strategy.Tools like ChatGPT work best when guided by a clear framework; they don’t magically create one for you.Client acquisition is the #1 problem for most SMBs.Whether you’re selling services or coaching, getting hired consistently is the biggest bottleneck to growth (but solvable with the right systems).Borrowed audiences (BOPA) are a fast track to visibility.Partnering with people who already have your audience beats building everything from scratch. Then AI can help you scale outreach.The success of coaching depends on the relationship, not just advice.People change when they feel seen, supported, and challenged; even the best AI can’t replicate that bond.AI will 10x your efficiency if you're already good.Experts can use AI to move faster and smarter; beginners often get overwhelmed or create more noise than value.The DIY info-product market is collapsing.Generic, self-serve courses are losing traction; people now want guided support, personalized coaching, and community to get real results.Focus on solving the real problem (not just adding AI).Before asking “How can I use AI?” ask, “Where are we stuck?” Then apply the right tool to remove the bottleneck, not add complexity.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailBots do the busywork, but you do the brilliant work. In this episode, AI futurist and author David Espindola joins Mike to explore how small and midmarket companies can redesign roles around AI so humans spend more time on creativity, trust, and real customer relationships. They unpack the real difference between human and machine intelligence, the risks of anthropomorphizing tools like voice agents, and the importance of a "human in the loop" throughout your marketing & sales workflows. You will hear practical guidance on where SMBs should start, how to decide if your company is a maker, shaper, or taker with AI, and why context training beats copy pasting from generic chat tools. David and Mike talk through using AI to keep CRMs updated so sales can actually sell, building hyper personalized marketing that still sounds like your brand, and choosing use cases that match your data and business model. They close with a candid look at jobs, ethics, and abundance, in addition to their optimistic hopes for a future with AI. Top TakeawaysHuman and machine intelligence are complementary: Humans blend analytical thinking with emotion and judgment while AI stays purely analytical, so collaboration is the key, not dependence.Do not confuse AI personas with real people: He warns that naming agents like his co-host Xena is fun, but we must remember not to confuse a convincing voice with a real relationship.AI is an assistant, not an autopilot: AI should act as a powerful assistant with a human in the loop from start to finish, meaning people provide context, monitor what is happening, and review the final output before it reaches customers.Context training beats generic prompts: Companies get better results when they give AI rich context about products, culture, and brand voice. AI can still have hallucinations.Start with the right problems: He urges leaders to start with a clear problem list and prioritize use cases where AI is actually the best solution.Pick your role: maker, shaper, or taker: David uses the makers, shapers, and takers framework to help firms decide whether they will build cutting edge AI, tailor existing tools, or simply adopt what large vendors ship.SMBs need education, champions, and guardrails: Many small and mid sized companies still lack basic AI understanding.Hyper personalization is the marketing frontier: Expect a surge in hyper personalization where marketing offers adapt to individuals and micro segments, all powered by AI.Let AI do the CRM chores so sales can sell: AI will take over sales chores like CRM data entry leaving reps to spend more time face to face with customers and building real trust & relationships.Jobs will shift toward human strengths and ethics: AI will automate many algorithmic and digital tasks, drastically increasing the value of human creativity, empathy, and ethics.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Human-First AI Marketing® Podcast, Mike Montague sits down with Mia Umanos, CEO of Clickvoyant and host of the AI Kid You Not podcast, to explore what AI means for both modern shopping and modern parenting.We cover everything from the surprising lack of optimization in e-commerce experiences, to how AI is rewiring our brains, and why that matters. You’ll hear practical insights for SMBs trying to compete in an AI-powered world, what frontier AI leaders already know (but aren't saying), and why the real danger isn't just using AI, but losing the ability to think. If you're navigating how to lead, learn, or parent in the age of algorithms, this conversation is for you.AI is already changing how kids learn and how parents teach. Mia shared how her daughter used ChatGPT to create a study guide to improve failing grades, demonstrating the positive learning utility of AI today. Most e-commerce brands aren’t optimizing for how people actually shop. Less than 1% of SMBs scientifically test or personalize their shopping experience, missing major ROI and customer insights.We’re entering a new era of “AI agents” that will shop for us. From product discovery to one-click purchasing, AI will increasingly make decisions on behalf of consumers, and brands need to prepare for that shift.The rise of AI literacy starts at home. Just like kids learned how to navigate the internet, Mia believes Gen Alpha needs to grow up understanding what an LLM is and who Sam Altman is—because AI is shaping their future.AI doesn’t just provide unprecedented access to information, but to skills. With tools like code generators and AI tutors, younger generations will outsource not just memory, but capability; making human creativity and judgment more critical than ever.Critical thinking, writing, and research are becoming rare (more valuable). We need to actively teach and protect these human skills, or risk losing them in a world where AI can do the “easy thinking” for us.AI is rewiring our brains whether we like it or not. Just the presence of a smartphone lowers our cognitive performance, and the same effect may apply to AI tools if we’re not aware of how we use them.Marketing channels are fracturing and SMBs need to unify the experience. With omnichannel platforms and fragmented attribution, marketers must rethink how they track, test, and guide buyers through the journey.Most SMBs are still guessing, not testing. AI tools like Clickvoyant offer predictive analytics and shopper behavior insights, but too few brands are actually using them to make data-driven decisions.The future of marketing belongs to the brands that co-create with AI—not the ones who fight it. Mia encourages leaders to see AI as a thought partner, not a threat, and to find ways to scale creativity without sacrificinThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing® podcast, Mike Montague sits down with content marketing strategist and fractional CMO Charlie Van Derven to explore a simple but powerful truth: AI can help you scale—but it can’t build trust for you.Together, they dig into:Why high-trust services like financial advising (and any B2B sale that isn’t a click-to-buy) still demand real human connectionThe telltale signs of “AI Slop” and how to avoid sounding robotic onlineHow financial advisors and SMBs can use webinars, email, and LinkedIn to nurture prospects without chasing themWhy content marketing isn’t just about volume—it’s about visibility, voice, and valueWhen to automate vs. when to actually start a conversationCharlie also shares his Perfect Client Playbook approach, how he builds targeted prospect lists that convert over time, and why your CRM might be your most powerful sales weapon—when used with intention.If your team is stuck posting content that isn’t converting or using AI tools that create more work than results, this conversation is your reset.Top TakeawaysAI is a tool, not a replacement for trust. You can speed up content creation with AI, but conversions still require a real human relationship—especially in high-stakes industries like finance.Human connection becomes your advantage as AI content floods the feed. In a world drowning in generic automation, the brands that show up with authentic, thoughtful outreach stand out.Webinars are a powerful trust and timing signal. When someone signs up and shows up, they’re raising their hand; it’s your cue to engage like a human, not a funnel.LinkedIn works best when it’s used to start conversations—not broadcast promotions. Charlie emphasized the importance of 1-to-1 engagement: finding a detail in someone’s profile, asking a real question, and building a relationship over time.Email marketing still converts—when it’s targeted and consistent. A well-built, highly relevant email list outperforms social algorithms every time if you’re showing up with the right message at the right time.CRM hygiene is sales enablement. Knowing who opened what, when, and how many times helps identify warm leads that even your best rep would otherwise miss.Trigger events drive sales—not speed. A person may not need your service today, but when life changes (a divorce, business sale, inheritance, etc.), that’s when trust pays off.Marketing is part inspiration, part infrastructure. AI can help with consistency and coverage, but you still need creative strategy, emotional intelligence, and a point of view to build loyalty.Your content must reflect who you are—not just what you do. Templated messaging and "prompt packs" break trust. The voice, tone, and context still need to come from 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if you could plug your business into AI and instantly see where your next 10X opportunity is hiding?That’s exactly what Solomon Thimothy, serial entrepreneur and founder of ClickX, is doing for growing companies right now. In this episode, Solomon joins Mike Montague to unpack the new growth formula for modern marketers: data + focus + automation.They dig into why most small businesses are sitting on mountains of unused data, how to connect tools like HubSpot, Google Analytics, and Claude to surface real-time insights, and why doing less can actually create more scale.From smarter prospecting to AI-assisted decision-making, this isn’t about chasing shiny tools, it’s about learning how to turn information into acceleration.If you’ve ever said, “We just need more leads,” this conversation will change how you think about growth forever.Top TakeawaysYour CRM is a crystal ball. Most teams use it to track deals; few use it to predict revenue. Solomon explains how to unlock insights you didn’t know were hiding in plain sight.AI can’t fix confusion. 10X growth starts when you eliminate noise. Focus on the one offer or audience that actually drives profit.Automation is leverage, not laziness. Connecting your data and letting AI do the analysis earns back time to do what humans do best. Automate the busywork and get back to selling, creating, and strategizing. Cold outreach isn’t dead, bad outreach is. Solomon shows how to use AI to research and write personalized emails that sound like a human and perform like a machine.The future is prompt-driven marketing. Tomorrow’s marketers won’t click buttons, they’ll craft better questions.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if your next big AI idea isn’t a product, but a responsibility?That’s the challenge Noelle Russell brings to this conversation. She’s an AI innovator who’s helped launch Amazon Alexa, led teams at IBM and Microsoft, and trained more than 3 million people in AI literacy. She's also the author of the hit book "Scaling Responsible AI: From Enthusiasm to Execution". Her message isn’t just about bigger, faster, or smarter technology; it’s about building AI systems that still feel human.In this episode, Noelle Russell and host Mike Montague talk about the difference between scaling technology and scaling trust. They unpack why “responsible AI” isn’t just a tech policy, but a leadership philosophy. From inclusive data and ethical automation to the emotional story that first drew Noelle into AI; they dive deep into what it takes to create systems that make life better.Whether you’re a small business leader, marketer, or executive navigating the next wave of AI adoption, this conversation will help you lead with confidence, curiosity, and care.Top TakeawaysEvery AI starts as a "baby tiger"It’s cute and useful at first, but it grow up fast. Plan for its scale before those cute automations become messy ones that bite.Ask the two magic questions“Where did you get that answer?” and “What’s the worst thing that could happen?” build responsible awareness. AI is an amazing tool, but it still needs your guidance. Inclusive data equals inclusive outcomes.Your data defines your values. Human oversight ensures your AI represents everyone you serve.Be a rational optimist.Noelle’s story about her son shows that AI’s greatest impact is accessibility, not automation.Scale trust, not just technology.The biggest risk isn’t AI replacing people, but rather people forgetting why they use AI in the first place.Leadership drives responsibility.Responsible AI is a leadership choice.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when a technologist, artist, and optimist walks into an AI podcast? You get Christian Hammer, CEO of Ngentix, a longtime tech leader, and a humanist dropping wisdom on the balance between automation and authenticity. In this episode, Christian and Mike Montague talk about how businesses can actually trust automation, what makes AI systems reliable, and why most marketing automation tools still fall short. Spoiler: it’s not about more tools; it’s about smarter context and better design.You’ll hear fresh takes on everything from AI-enabled financial reconciliation to the real reason generative AI struggles with brand voice. Christian shares stories from building AI agents that actually finish the job, and offers practical advice for SMBs who want automation that respects brand nuance, business logic, and human preferences. Whether you’re a marketer, operator, or founder navigating AI, this episode will leave you thinking and taking action.Top Takeaways AI Should Be Like Fire: A Tool, Not a Threat Like fire, AI can burn down a village or heat your home; how we use it defines its value.LLMs Are Like Teenage Interns: Clever, But Untrustworthy Large language models feel smart, but they need oversight, boundaries, and clear instructions before you trust them with real work.Trust in Automation Comes from Clarity, Not Hype Businesses should start with the outcome they want, then design systems that reliably reach it, not just bolt AI onto broken workflows.Reconciliation is a Prime Use Case for Automation Financial tasks, such as end-of-month reconciliation, are ideal for automation because they’re rules-based, repeatable, and easy to verify.The Real Problem is Language Translation Between Systems AI can help bridge the "semantic gaps" between platforms (e.g., what Uber Eats refers to as a customer versus what QuickBooks refers to as a client).Don’t Hold AI to Higher Standards Than Interns or Vendors If you wouldn't expect perfection from a new hire, don’t expect it from AI; focus on directionally accurate results with room for feedback.Generative AI Isn’t Enough, You Need Context Graphs Effective automation requires more than prompts; it needs a persistent memory of your brand preferences, processes, and data logic.Autonomous Agents Must Provide Proof of Work AI that completes tasks without showing its work is a liability; real systems should generate receipts, logs, and validation steps.The Future Is Local (and Cheaper) Open-source LLMs and local AI models are making powerful automation accessible to small businesses, without enterprise-level pricing.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Human-First AI Marketing, host Mike Montague of Avenue9 sits down with Dr. Anastassia Lauterbach, AI and robotics expert, professor, and creator of the Romy and Robby educational book series, to demystify artificial intelligence and explore how it really works. From breaking down common myths about generative AI and “artificial consciousness” to explaining what tokens, training, and accurate intelligence mean, Dr. Lauterbach delivers a masterclass in separating AI facts from fiction.Together, Mike and Anastassia uncover what today’s business leaders need to know about using AI responsibly and effectively, from its applications in marketing, medicine, and education to its limits in reasoning and creativity. They discuss the importance of human oversight, the future of robotics, and how AI can enhance, not replace, human insight. Whether you’re a marketing director, entrepreneur, or curious learner, this episode will help you see AI not as a threat or trend, but as a powerful tool for more innovative, more human-centered innovation.Top Takeaways1. AI doesn’t “think” or hold conversations; it predicts patterns.Large Language Models, such as ChatGPT, aren’t conscious or conversational; they’re mathematical systems that predict the next token based on statistical probability, rather than understanding or intent.2. Misunderstanding how AI works leads to poor business use.Treating AI as a human-like assistant can lead to mistakes in marketing and decision-making; leaders must view it as a tool for pattern recognition and automation, rather than as a substitute for human cognition.3. AI is “frozen in space”;  it doesn’t learn in real time.Once trained, models are fixed until retrained and redeployed, meaning they can’t evolve dynamically with every prompt or conversation.4. Human language and AI language aren’t the same thing.What seems like fluent conversation is really statistical token prediction; AI doesn’t “understand” English, tone, or context the way humans do.5. AI’s true power lies in scale, not consciousness.It can process vast data sets and find patterns humans can’t, but lacks reasoning, emotion, and causality qualities that make humans irreplaceable in marketing and creativity.6. AI will touch every industry, but human insight remains key.From medicine to engineering to marketing, AI can enhance efficiency, yet success depends on people who understand how and when to apply it.7. Self-driving cars show the limits of “real-world” AI.Despite billions of dollars invested, environmental complexity still outpaces AI’s ability to reason like a human driver, a lesson for any business trying to automate too quickly.8. Human-AI collaboration produces the best results.Just as composers used AI to complete Beethoven’s unfinished symphony, the most significant breakthroughs come when huThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, host Mike Montague sits down with Jason Berkowitz, founder of Break the Web Agency, to unpack what it really means to do SEO in 2025, without losing your mind (or your humanity). They explore how small and midsize businesses can stop chasing Google updates and AI trends and instead focus on timeless marketing principles that actually drive growth. From building topical authority and earning trust to integrating AI tools in a way that supports, not replaces, human creativity, this episode redefines what effective, sustainable SEO looks like today.You’ll learn why good SEO hasn’t really changed as much as the noise suggests, how “human-first” content naturally aligns with what both people and algorithms value, and why shortcuts and hacks often do more harm than good. Jason and Mike also dive into the future of search, what AI-powered discovery means for brands, and how to stay visible (and credible) in a rapidly shifting digital world. Whether you’re a marketing director refining your strategy or a business owner trying to make SEO less annoying, this conversation will help you focus on what really matters: creating value, building authority, and connecting with the right audience.Top Takeaways1. Human-first SEO still wins.Writing for people, not search engines, remains the foundation of strong SEO, even as AI tools reshape how we create and consume content.2. Good SEO translates across platforms.The same principles that help you rank in Google also make your brand visible in AI-driven tools and LLM platforms because authority and clarity are universal signals.3. Authority beats quantity every time.Consistent, topic-focused content that builds topical relevance and expertise (E-E-A-T) creates lasting visibility and trust online.4. Links and mentions still matter.Despite their bad reputation from early SEO tactics, credible backlinks, digital PR, and brand mentions continue to boost perceived authority.5. AI hasn’t replaced SEO, yet.Search behavior is evolving, but true purchase intent and brand discovery still rely on the same fundamentals: relevance, trust, and user experience.6. Avoid “SEO hacks” and shortcuts.Quick tricks, keyword stuffing, or AI spam may give short-term wins but erode brand trust and long-term visibility.7. Measure what matters.Visibility and brand presence, not vanity metrics like clicks or impressions, are more meaningful indicators of SEO success in the AI era.8. Patience pays off.Sustainable SEO results typically take 3–6 months to materialize; focusing on long-term growth is more effective than chasing every algorithm tweak.9. AI will become part of search, not replace it.As AI tools evolve, user trust and human context will determine which platforms succeed, reinforcing the need for authentic, authoritative content.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, host Mike Montague sits down with Michael “Buzz” Buzinski, author of The Rule of 26 and host of the Buzzworthy Marketing Show. Together, they unpack what it really takes for small and midsize businesses to thrive in today’s AI-driven marketing world. From avoiding “random acts of marketing” to building scalable strategies, Buzz shares how SMBs can cut through the noise, optimize their websites, and focus on the metrics that truly drive revenue growth.Listeners will discover why AI isn’t replacing marketers anytime soon, but instead reshaping their roles into smarter, more efficient strategists. Buzz explains how to harness AI for micro-tasks, improve conversions, and increase average revenue per client, without wasting time or budget. Whether you’re a business owner or a marketing director, you’ll walk away with actionable tactics to double your website revenue, stop wasting effort, and make AI work with you, not against you.Top Takeaways1. AI won’t replace marketers; it will optimize their work.Instead of eliminating jobs, AI automates repetitive tasks, allowing marketers to focus on strategy, creativity, and achieving results.2. Think in micro-tasks, not massive prompts.Breaking down projects into smaller steps makes AI outputs more accurate, helpful, and tailored to your needs.3. Context is more potent than prompts.Feeding AI the right background, research, and brand voice produces far better outcomes than “prompt engineering” alone.4. Do the homework before the marketing work.Clean, relevant research and data must be prepared and fed into AI projects to ensure quality content and decisions.5. The Rule of 26 simplifies revenue growth.By improving traffic, conversion rate, and average client revenue by just 26% each, SMBs can double their website revenue.6. Fix your offer and conversions before buying traffic.Driving more traffic won’t help unless your website and offers are already converting visitors into leads or customers.7. Service-based B2B marketing requires trust and clarity.For professional services, a clear value proposition and trust-building content matter more than personality or flash.8. Stop wasting time on “random acts of marketing.”Focus only on strategies and KPIs that directly move the revenue needle instead of chasing vanity metrics.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, Mike Montague sits down with  @SebastianChedal    co-founder of Fountain City and Testfox.ai, to talk about what really drives success when implementing AI inside small and mid-sized businesses. Spoiler: It’s not the tools. It’s the people, the process, and the problems you’re solving. Together, they unpack what it means to be AI-ready, how to avoid the 80% failure rate of AI projects, and how to align your data, workflows, and expectations for long-term wins.You’ll learn why capturing messy data is better than having none, how to spot when your team is working around your process instead of with it, and how human-first testing can prevent costly AI mistakes. Whether you’re exploring automation, building internal chatbots, or just trying to figure out if AI is worth your time, this episode will give you the clarity and caution you need. It’s smart, strategic, and packed with practical takeaways for SMB leaders who want to grow without losing their voice, values, or velocity.Top Takeaways 1. AI Success Starts with Process, Not ToolsBefore plugging in any AI, you need a well-defined process; otherwise, you're just scaling chaos.2. Document Your Knowledge, Don’t Just Store It in People’s HeadsAI can’t help your team if your workflows, SOPs, and decision logic live in tribal knowledge.3. Your Data Doesn’t Need to Be Clean, It Just Needs to ExistCapturing conversations, emails, and documents now gives you raw material that AI can organize later.5. Most Small Businesses Overestimate AI's Readiness and Underestimate Their OwnYou may not need complex custom models; smart use of tools + your business context often wins.6. Testing Isn’t Optional, It’s Your Safety NetUnchecked AI can hallucinate, mislead, or even expose you to legal risk. Test for bias, tone, and reliability before going live.7. The Best Use of AI Right Now Is as an Assistant, Not a ReplacementAI excels when augmenting human talent, freeing up time, reducing tedious tasks, and accelerating execution.8. Even Failed AI Projects Can Create Business ValueWhen done right, AI readiness work enhances your process and documentation, yielding benefits with or without a bot.9. Productivity Increases Mean More Jobs, Not LessAI won’t replace your team; it will change what they do. SMBs that prepare for this shift will outpace those that don’t.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human First AI Marketing Podcast, host Mike Monague sits down with Jonathan Kvarfordt, Head of Growth at Momentum.io, to explore how AI is transforming the way SMBs approach sales, marketing, and customer success. From eliminating tedious CRM updates to capturing the authentic voice of your customers, Jonathan shares how AI tools can give go-to-market teams back their most valuable resource, time. You’ll hear how forward-thinking leaders are using AI not to replace people, but to amplify their impact, free up bandwidth for revenue-generating work, and make better data-driven decisions.Together, Mike and Jonathan dig into the future of AI-powered workflows, practical use cases for sales enablement, and why customer conversations are “gold” for marketers who know how to listen. You’ll learn what it takes to balance automation with human connection, how to equip your team with an “Ironman suit” of insights, and where SMB leaders should focus now to unlock growth momentum.Top Takeaways1. AI should fit into existing workflows, not add more toolsInstead of forcing teams to adopt new software, AI works best when it integrates seamlessly into platforms like Slack or CRM, reducing friction and boosting adoption.2. Customer conversations are untapped marketing gold.The real language customers use in sales and support calls reveals their true needs and phrasing, which can inform more relevant content, messaging, and product strategy.3. AI unlocks more time for revenue-generating activityBy automating CRM updates, note-taking, and follow-ups, sales reps can spend more of their day actually selling, in some cases doubling their productive output4. Data beats gut instincts for go-to-market decisionsInstead of relying on one-off calls or opinions, AI can analyze thousands of conversations to reveal patterns, customer objections, and reasons deals are won or lost.5. Pre-call and post-call insights are more valuable than in-call nudgesRather than distracting reps mid-conversation, AI-driven prep notes and debrief summaries provide the proper context at the right time to improve performance.6. Human expertise will matter more as AI becomes universalIn a future where everyone has access to similar AI tools, what will stand out is each person’s unique genius, creativity, and ability to build authentic relationshipsThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, host Mike Monague sits down with Grant Fuellenbach of Go First Consulting to unpack what it really takes for small and mid-sized businesses to scale sustainably. From builders and contractors to growing SMB teams, Grant shares how predictable systems and smart AI integrations can help business owners escape the chaos of juggling bids, paperwork, and project management. You’ll learn how to move beyond the “shotgun approach” to AI by implementing practical systems that reduce bottlenecks, streamline operations, and deliver better client experiences.Together, Mike and Grant explore real-world use cases, from AI-powered sales presentations and instant estimates to automating knowledge transfer and tackling the paperwork SMB owners dread. They also look ahead to future trends, such as predictive analytics, aging-in-place remodels, and the role of AI in marketing personalization. Whether you’re an SMB owner or a marketing director, you’ll walk away with actionable strategies to scale without burning out, keep clients engaged, and find the human edge in a world of accelerating AI tools.Key Takeaways1. Install Predictable Systems, Not Just ToolsMany SMBs sign up for AI apps but lack structured processes. Success comes from building systems that integrate tools into daily workflows.2. Segment Your Business Size Before Applying AIOwner-operators, small teams, and larger firms each have different AI needs, so strategies must be tailored rather than one-size-fits-all.3. Enhance the Client Experience FirstAI can reduce the awkwardness of sales interactions (like discussing money in someone’s home) by offering personalized, visual, and real-time presentations.4. Use AI for Knowledge Transfer and TrainingInstead of relying on shadowing or incomplete SOPs, AI can capture and organize institutional knowledge for easier onboarding and consistency.5. Automate the Paperwork, Focus on the CraftContractors and small businesses often get bogged down in bids, estimates, and administration; automation frees them to spend more time on the hands-on work they love.6. Leverage Predictive Analytics for Revenue StreamsFrom HVAC lifespans to remodel triggers, predictive AI helps businesses anticipate customer needs and generate repeat business.7. Consider “Aging in Place” as a Growth MarketWith retirement home costs soaring, remodels that make homes senior-friendly represent a huge opportunity for SMB builders and service providers.8. Convenience Is the New CurrencyThe future of SMB marketing lies in making information and services more convenient, personalized, and timely through AI-driven systems.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when small business owners and marketing leaders stop trying to do it all themselves? In this episode of the Human First AI Marketing Podcast, host Mike Montague sits down with Jaime Jay, founder of Bottleneck Distant Assistants, to explore the power of delegation in a world transformed by AI. Together, they explore the critical distinction between task delegation and establishing a true “delegation department,” the significant impact of turnover on business costs, and how combining AI and human assistants can drive productivity, creativity, and growth.Listeners will learn about Jaime’s concept of Delegation Intelligence, a framework for identifying what to automate, delegate, or keep on your plate. From brain-dumping ideas to documenting repetitive tasks, Jaime shares practical tools SMB owners and marketing directors can use to reclaim time and scale smarter. Whether it’s freeing yourself from email, avoiding burnout in the AI era, or empowering others to shine, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the future of work and the human edge that will keep your business thriving.Key Takeaways1. Every business needs a “delegation department.”Jaime argues that delegation isn’t just an HR task; it should be treated as a core business function to reduce turnover, improve clarity, and unlock growth.2. Turnover costs more than you think.Hiring and replacing an employee can cost thousands in training, onboarding, and lost productivity, making smart delegation a powerful cost-saving strategy.3. Delegation Intelligence is a new framework for leaders.His Delegation IQ blueprint helps entrepreneurs decide what to automate, delegate, or eliminate, freeing up mental space and reducing stress.4. Don’t try to create a “mini-me.”Leaders often fail by delegating only the tasks they dislike; instead, they should empower assistants to complement their strengths rather than duplicate them.5. Document tasks as if it’s the last time you’ll ever do them.By recording processes as you perform them, you create a reusable library that assistants or AI can leverage, paving the way for scalability.6. Hire for values, not just skills.Jaime stresses the importance of assistants aligning with company beliefs and having the confidence to disagree, fostering stronger collaboration and trust.7. Delegation creates ripple effects.Empowering assistants not only benefits the business but also helps them grow personally and professionally, leading to positive global impacts8. AI is powerful, but burnout is real.While AI can supercharge productivity, many founders risk “CEO AI burnout” unless they learn to delegate the heavy lifting to specialists and teams.9. The future of work is hybrid.Jaime envisions a world where humans, AI, and distant assistants collaborate, creating leaner, more innovative companies, even billion-dollar 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if AI wasn’t just another shiny object but a way to get back to what actually works in marketing? In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with David Berkowitz, founder of the AI Marketers Guild and author of The Non-Obvious Guide to Using AI in Marketing, to talk about how small and mid-sized businesses can avoid the trap of AI slop and instead use smart tools to create real connections, trust, and creativity at scale.Together, they unpack the risks of lazy automation, the rise of spammy AI outreach, and how thoughtful marketers can stand out by doing less but better. You’ll learn practical ways to personalize proposals, customize your content engine, use AI as an “editor”, not an engine, and create experiences your buyers actually care about. If you’re overwhelmed by tools, tired of robotic content, or just looking for a smarter, more human-first way to market, this conversation is your permission to rethink everything.Key Takeaways1. Avoid the Tragedy of the Commons in MarketingWhen everyone uses AI to blast more content, we risk burning the very channels we depend on. Attention is a limited resource.2. Don’t Reward Shortcuts That Hurt the BrandThe immediate ROI from spammy outreach may look good in the short term, but it erodes trust and damages long-term growth.3. Personalization Beats ProliferationAI is most powerful when used to create custom, relevant experiences, not just more messages.4. Use AI to Do What Was Previously ImpossibleThe real power of AI isn’t just speed; it’s enabling small teams to create interactive, personalized tools like quizzes, assessments, and tailored content they could never afford before.5. Be the Editor, Not the TypistAI should be your first draft assistant, not your final voice. Great marketers still have to think critically and creatively.6. Build Custom AI Projects by Use CaseCreate saved projects or "custom GPTs" for each client, product, or process to increase relevance and reduce repetition.7. Ask Your AI How to Make Things BetterOne of the most useful prompts is simply: “How would you improve this?” It invites iteration and innovation.8. Interactive Content is the New DifferentiatorTools like quizzes, assessments, and vibe-coded landing pages stand out in a world of static blog posts and cold email.9. Quizzes Aren’t Just Gimmicks, They’re Lead QualifiersAI-powered quizzes provide personalized insights to your audience while collecting valuable data for your marketing efforts.10. Train AI to Know You, Then Ask for StrategyWhen AI understands your business, values, and clients, it can serve as a valuable strategic sounding board, not just a content machine.11. Creative Layering is the Next Marketing SuperpowerBy layering AI tools, sThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The Social Shift, Mike Montague (Avenue9) sits down with Katie Brinkley (Next Step Social and Podcast) to unpack how AI is changing social media and why the brands that win will be the ones that sound most human, not most automated. They explore the rise of “AI slop” in our feeds, why going viral isn’t a business strategy, and how local and B2B businesses can use podcasting and authentic content to build genuine relationships, not just rack up views.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by content chaos or unsure how to make AI work without losing your voice, this conversation is your reset button. You’ll learn how to blend AI with authenticity, why smaller audiences often lead to bigger results, and how to turn conversations into your most powerful content engine. It’s a must-listen for marketers, business owners, and creators looking to bring marketing back to life.Top Takeaways1. AI Made Social Media Sloppy, Now Authenticity Stands Out More Than Ever:With everyone posting AI-generated fluff, real human content is easier to spot and more potent than before.2. Going Viral Is Not a Business Strategy:Business owners should prioritize relevant reach over random views from audiences unlikely to convert.3. Influencers Chase Attention; Business Owners Should Spark Conversations:Social media works best when it leads to fundamental interactions, not just likes or trends that disappear tomorrow.4. Podcasting Builds Trust, Authority, and Community at the Same Time:A podcast lets you connect directly with your audience and expand your network by interviewing real people in your space.5. You Don’t Need a Fancy Setup to Start a Podcast, Start the Conversation:Most of Katie’s podcasting success comes from consistency, genuine curiosity, and a webcam, not expensive gear.6. Local Businesses Gain a Competitive Edge by Showing Up Online with a Human Voice:People want to buy from real people in their community; consistent, authentic content can make you the go-to name in your niche.7. Repurposing Podcast Content Can Fill Your Entire Marketing Calendar:One great episode can become blog posts, social clips, emails, and more with AI, making it even easier to scale your message without losing your tone.8. Trust Comes From Depth, Not Just Reach:It’s better to build deep relationships with 100 people than be forgettable to 10,000.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human First AI Marketing podcast, host Mike Montague sits down with Alexander Schlager, founder of Alceberg.ai, to unpack the hidden cybersecurity challenges lurking beneath the surface of AI adoption. From the rise of agentic AI to the evolving threat landscape of autonomous tools and prompt injections, this conversation goes deep into why observability, memory, and human-in-the-loop design are critical for keeping your brand and your customers safe. Whether you're leading marketing for a startup or managing tech stacks in a mid-sized enterprise, you'll gain valuable insight into where AI safety, data privacy, and business alignment intersect.Key themes include the real-world risks of overreliance on AI, why 95% of agent AI pilots are failing today, and how SMBs can get ahead by investing in security, not just speed. Alex shares a pragmatic view on balancing innovation with compliance, the importance of explainable AI models, and why "natural language is the new code" for marketers. You can tune in to learn how to future-proof your AI initiatives with a human-first approach because what's visible above the surface is only the beginning.Key Takeaways1. AI Security ≠ Security AIIt's essential to distinguish between using AI to enhance traditional security tools and securing AI systems themselves, especially agentic AI workflows.2. Human-in-the-Loop Is Critical (For Now)Embedding humans into AI decision loops ensures oversight during early deployments and helps agents learn through real-time feedback.3. Agentic AI Increases Risk ExposureUnlike simple chatbots, autonomous agents that invoke tools or access memory pose greater threats if misaligned or breached.4. Overreliance on Early-Stage AI Is a Major ThreatMost agent AI pilots fail due to businesses expecting too much from immature models or failing to prepare their data infrastructure.5. Data Readiness Is Often OverlookedPoorly formatted, inaccessible, or unsecured data undermines AI effectiveness and increases the risk of security failures.6. Observability Must Be Purposeful, Not PassiveTrying to monitor everything is impractical; instead, focus on high-risk events like autonomous tool invocations or sensitive data interactions.7. Use Specialized AI to Monitor AI, But Keep It ExplainableMonitoring AI systems with black-box models creates new problems; use transparent, interpretable models for accountability.8. Toxicity and Illegality Are Easier to Detect Than You ThinkWith the right training data, it's relatively simple to flag harmful content. More challenging are nuanced alignment and intent checks.9. SMBs Benefit From Low Regulation, But Not for LongSmaller businesses can now move faster, but they should still adopt strong safety and liability frameworks before regulations catch up.10. Alignment Between User Intent and Agent Actions Is CrucialFutThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Podcasting Made Simple Live, special speaker Mike Montague, founder of Avenue9 and host of the Human First AI Marketing Podcast, shares how artificial intelligence can transform the way you prepare for podcast interviews. Drawing on over a decade of experience behind the mic, Mike reveals how AI can help guests show up sharper, more relevant, and more confident without losing their authenticity.You’ll learn how to use AI as a creative collaborator to research your host and audience, sharpen your talking points, and uncover fresh, personal stories that resonate. Mike breaks down four key ways AI can enhance your preparation, from crafting standout bios and pitches to brainstorming new storytelling angles, all while maintaining your voice as human and engaging as possible. If you’ve ever struggled with over-prepping, repeating old stories, or freezing up mid-interview, this episode will help you use AI to prepare smarter, connect deeper, and make a lasting impression.Top Takeaways1. AI is your collaborator, not your crutch.Use AI to enhance your preparation and creativity, not to script your answers or replace your authentic voice.2. Preparation beats performance.Great guests don’t wing it; they use AI to research the show, host, and audience so they can show up relevant and ready.3. You can just craft your position before you record.AI can help you write stronger bios, headlines, and pitches that make a memorable first impression on hosts and listeners.4. Know the show, the host, and the audience.By analyzing transcripts or themes with AI, you can tailor your stories and talking points to fit the podcast’s tone and values.5. Sharpen your stories, don’t repeat them.Utilize AI to transform familiar anecdotes into fresh, engaging versions that keep your content fresh and memorable.6. Practice with AI as your interview coach.Let AI ask you tough or unexpected questions to help you refine your delivery, tone, and clarity before you hit record.7. Find fresh angles and emotional depth.Ask AI to surface personal stories, contrarian takes, or emotional insights that connect with audiences on a deeper level.8. Be human first, always.AI should make you sound more prepared and more human, not robotic. Once the mic is on, close your AI tabs and focus entirely on the conversation.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Let the Robots Do the Work: Finding the Human Edge in AI Marketing, Mike Montague sits down with Chris Singel,  AI Optimist, Delta Digital Agency owner, and TEDx speaker, to explore how small and midsize businesses can embrace AI without losing what makes them unique. From automating the “work that sucks” to unlocking new levels of creativity and strategy, Chris shares why the future isn’t humans or robots, but a powerful collaboration of both.Listeners will discover practical insights on AI-driven advertising, smarter campaign testing, and managing digital change inside their teams. Chris and Mike dig into the abundance vs. focus dilemma in marketing, the balance between automation and authentic customer connection, and how leaders can empower employees to adopt AI in ways that make their work more meaningful. Packed with optimism, humor, and real-world examples, this conversation will help business owners and marketing directors find clarity and confidence in the evolving AI landscape.Key Takeaways1. Automate the tasks that drain energy, not creativity - AI works best when it handles repetitive, time-consuming tasks so humans can focus on strategy, storytelling, and customer relationships2.AI and humans are not competitors, but collaborators -The strongest results come when technology scales efficiency and people ensure quality, context, and brand alignment3.“More” isn’t always better in marketing — Instead of chasing bigger lists and constant outreach, SMBs should focus on targeting the right customers with relevant, valuable interactions.4. Experimentation drives success — Using AI for A/B testing, copy variations, and ad creative helps businesses discover what truly resonates, even if the winning version is unexpected.5. Good enough is sometimes good enough — For social posts or quick tasks, AI-generated content may deliver similar results while saving significant time and resources.6. Change management is key — Employee-driven adoption of AI tools leads to happier, more empowered teams, while top-down mandates risk disengagement7. The future of work is more human — As AI takes over routine labor, people will gain space for emotional intelligence, creativity, and meaningful work that machines can’t replicate.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if you could automate 90% of your business without losing the human touch? In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with  ⁨@BradfordSCarlton⁩   , founder of Automate Business AI, to explore what’s actually possible when small business owners and creators stop doing everything themselves and start building intelligent systems. From AI-generated content and task automation to building bots for invoicing and marketing, Bradford shares how he has designed a business that operates independently while maintaining his unique personality in the brand.You’ll learn how to rethink your org chart, spot opportunities to offload repetitive tasks, and use tools like spreadsheets, GPTs, and no-code automation to free up time and creative energy. If you’re tired of juggling tools or stuck wondering how far AI can go without sacrificing quality, this is your episode. It's a candid, human-first conversation about working smarter, not just harder.Key Takeaways1. You can automate 90–95% of your business tasks.Bradford breaks down how most repetitive work, especially in content, invoicing, and admin, can be systematized using AI tools and no-code workflows.2. Start with your org chart, not your tech stack.Think like a CEO: define the roles and tasks in your business first, then assign those tasks to bots, tools, or people.3. Spreadsheets are still the universal data hub.Most businesses already use Google Sheets or Excel; these are the ideal starting points for automating tasks via AI and APIs.4. Use AI to serve your team, not replace them.Bradford emphasizes how automation can eliminate busywork and enable teams, such as his wife and business partner, to concentrate on high-value tasks.5. You don’t need to be technical to automate.Despite having no coding background, Bradford uses tools like n8n and ChatGPT APIs to build automations that handle everything from content to task routing.6. AI content quality improves with better prompts, not better tools.He shares how “monster prompts” (long, detailed instructions) generate higher-quality content that feels more human and requires less editing.7. It’s not about perfection, it’s about efficiency.Even if AI doesn’t get it 100% right, a 90% solution that saves hours each week is often more than good enough.8. AI-generated media is great for scale, but humans still lead with nuance.Bradford explains where AI-generated avatars and video fall short, and why human context and emotion still matter, especially in brand and voice.9. Automation is a global opportunity.With clients around the world and use cases in every time zone, Bradford reminds us that AI can help small businesses play on a much bigger stageThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, Mike Montague sits down with AI strategist and founder of AIaSystem.com,  ⁨@dustinjensen0351⁩   , to explore how small and mid-sized businesses can harness AI to drive real business outcomes. From workflow discovery to the rise of AI agents that ‘close the loop’ on automation, Dustin shares frameworks, use cases, and practical advice for moving from curiosity to pilot implementation. You’ll also learn why context, not just prompts, is the new currency of AI success, and how SMBs can start building smarter systems without completely overhauling their operations.Together, they unpack key themes, including the distinction between traditional automation and true AI agents, how to evaluate workflows based on complexity and volume, and what it takes to create a multi-agent ecosystem within your company. Whether you're a marketing director overwhelmed by tech shifts or a business owner ready to experiment with AI, this episode offers clarity, strategy, and forward-thinking ideas to future-proof your operations.Key Takeaways1. AI Agents Must Close the LoopTrue AI agents complete tasks end-to-end autonomously, unlike traditional automation, which still requires human input.2. Context Engineering Is the New Prompt EngineeringSuccess with AI relies on feeding the system relevant context, similar to how you would onboard a new employee.3. Workflow Discovery Is the First Step to AI SuccessBusinesses must understand their internal workflows before attempting to automate or augment them with AI.4. Low-Complexity, High-Volume Tasks Are Prime TargetsThe easiest wins in AI adoption come from automating simple, repetitive tasks that happen frequently.5. SMBs Often Misunderstand What AI Can DoMost companies either underestimate or overestimate AI’s capabilities, so education and pilot testing are crucial.6. Multi-Agent Ecosystems Are the FutureInstead of a single monolithic AI, organizations will benefit from specialized agents working together in an orchestrated manner.7. Start with Co-Pilots, Then Scale to Autonomous AgentsUse AI tools to augment human work before fully replacing processes, especially for high-complexity, low-volume tasks.8. Proactive AI (Like Oracle Agents) Will Reshape OperationsDustin envisions AI that prompts humans, not just responds, by surfacing relevant insights and missed actions in real time.9. Change Management Is as Critical as the TechnologyEven the best AI tools fail if teams don’t adopt them, making user experience and behavioral habits key to success.10. The Future of Work May Be Post-ProductivityLooking far ahead, Dustin suggests that AI may eventually relieve humans from task-driven work entirely, shifting their focus to creativity, connection, and purpose.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this special episode celebrating #internationalpodcastday  2025, Mike Montague gathers top voices from the world of marketing, sales, tech, and strategy to answer one big question: What will sales and marketing look like 10 years from now? The answers might surprise you. From personal AI agents and decentralized trust systems to the rise of AI burnout among executives, this conversation explores the very real shifts happening now and how to prepare for what’s coming next.You’ll hear bold predictions and practical insights on how AI will reshape customer journeys, personalization, job roles, and brand experiences. But at the heart of it all? A shared belief that what makes us human will matter more, not less. Whether you're leading a marketing team or simply trying to stay ahead of the curve, this episode will help you cut through the noise and build a smarter, more human-first go-to-market strategy.Top Takeaways1. Your Uniqueness Will Be Your MoatWhen everyone has access to the same AI tools, your personality, creativity, and lived experience become your true competitive advantage.2. AI Burnout Is Coming for CEOsBusiness leaders who didn’t sign up to be technologists are feeling the pressure to keep up, often at the cost of their original passion or purpose.3. Personal AI Agents Will Be the New Executive AssistantsIn the near future, everyone may have a personal AI that anticipates tasks, handles follow-ups, and acts on your behalf in real time.4. Web3 and Blockchain Will Power Trust in the AI EraAs AI-generated content floods the market, decentralized systems will become essential for proving identity, authorship, and data integrity.5. Customer Experience Will Matter More Than Customer AcquisitionWith AI making product discovery easier, brands must shift their focus to retention and memorable experiences to build loyalty.6. Specialized Generalists Will Win in MarketingFuture marketers will need to blend creativity, data literacy, and strategy to remain valuable in a landscape where pure copywriting or design may be automated.7. Ethical and Transparent AI Will Become a Brand DifferentiatorConsumers and clients will reward businesses that use AI responsibly and communicate how they protect trust and human values.8. AI Will Amplify, Not Replace, Emotional IntelligenceThe most effective use of AI will be in amplifying human empathy, intuition, and storytelling, not trying to replicate them.9. AI Will Redefine Team Roles and Marketing WorkflowsFrom automating busywork to AI-powered campaign analysis, traditional roles will evolve, requiring teams to adapt their work and collaboration methods.10. We're Entering the Era of Experience-Driven Events and ContentAs digital content becomes more abundant, people will pay a premium for curated, exclusive, and emotionally resonant experiences that can’t be mass-produced by 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if you could clone your mindset, values, and decision-making style into an AI-powered version of yourself, one that never sleeps, doubts, or second-guesses? In this episode of the Human First AI Marketing podcast, host Mike Montague sits down with AI and blockchain expert  ⁨@manujagro⁩   to explore the groundbreaking concept of the AI Digital Twin. Together, they unpack how this emerging technology can help business owners and marketing leaders gain clarity, unlock subconscious insight, and scale their impact faster and more authentically than ever before.You’ll learn why aligning your digital twin with your life’s purpose can dramatically improve business outcomes, how emotional intelligence fuels better automation, and what the five key pillars are for building a self-aware, decision-ready AI assistant. This episode blends tech, psychology, and practical entrepreneurship to help you think deeper and move smarter in an AI-driven world.Top Takeaways1. Your AI Twin is a Mirror of Your Mind, Not Just Your ResumeRather than scraping surface-level data, a true digital twin reflects your subconscious beliefs, emotional patterns, and decision-making frameworks.2. Tapping the Subconscious Unlocks Faster, Aligned GrowthManuj emphasizes that your subconscious already knows your optimal path, and your AI twin can guide you past fear, doubt, and limiting beliefs.3. AI Twins Should Empower, Not ReplaceThis isn’t about handing over control; it’s about gaining a superintelligent co-pilot trained specifically on your mindset and goals.4. Five Human Pillars Anchor the Twin: Purpose, Identity, Relationships, Creativity, and Peace of MindThese foundational elements ensure your AI isn’t just intelligent, it’s emotionally and strategically aligned with your life.5. Traditional AI Models Can Be Biased Toward AgreementGeneric AIs may validate your existing thinking, but your digital twin reflects your deeper self, offering constructive clarity, not just comfort.6. Self-Awareness is the New SuperpowerUsing AI to become more self-aware isn’t just personal growth; it leads to better leadership, marketing, and business decisions.7. Everyone Will Need This in the AI EconomyAs automation accelerates, Manuj predicts a future where self-alignment and emotional intelligence will define professional relevance.8. This Isn’t Hype, It’s Scientifically ReviewedManuj’s digital twin methodology is grounded in peer-reviewed science and inspired by ancient wisdom, made accessible through modern 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when AI stops being a gimmick and starts being your creative partner? In this episode, Mike Montague chats with Amer Tadayon, founder of LuciHub, about how AI video tools are opening new doors for small businesses, nonprofits, and solo marketers. From script writing and shot lists to voiceovers and final edits, AI is now a creative co-pilot, not a replacement for humans, but an amplifier of ideas. Amer shares how SMBs are creating authentic, high-performing video content using just a phone, a few smart tools, and a bold story to tell.If you’ve ever felt priced out of video production, overwhelmed by AI, or stuck repurposing the same old content, this conversation will shift your mindset. You’ll hear how lo-fi, real-talk videos are outperforming polished commercials, why authenticity builds trust faster than perfection, and how frontline teams can become your most powerful storytellers. Whether you're running a nonprofit or a scrappy B2B team, this episode will help you rethink what’s possible with AI and a human-first marketing mindset.Key Takeaways1. AI is democratizing storytellingTools like LuciHub allow anyone with a phone and a story to create high-quality video content, removing the traditional cost barriers of production.2. Creativity is no longer gated by capital.You don’t need a seven-figure budget to bring your ideas to life; AI levels the playing field for small businesses and solo creators.3. Lo-fi video is outperforming hi-fi in many cases.Authentic, phone-shot videos often drive better engagement than expensive, overly polished ads because they feel more real and trustworthy.4. Storytelling is shifting from marketing teams to frontline workersAmer shared how companies are empowering team members on the ground to share brand stories in their own words, bringing humanity and perspective.5. AI video tools are launching one-person agencies.Entrepreneurs are using Lucy Hub to start lean content businesses, proving that small teams (or individuals) can punch well above their weight with the right tools.6. Voiceovers and avatars have their place, but not everywhereAI voiceovers are fine for short-form, tactical content, but human voices and faces still lead when it comes to trust and emotional resonance.7. AI reduces risk and encourages experimentation.When content is faster and cheaper to produce, brands are more willing to test bold ideas, because a failed video doesn’t blow the whole budget.8. The future of video is agile, authentic, and powered by AIVideo today is like fast fashion, turnaround matters, but emotional connection still wins; AI helps you do both better.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing® podcast, we’re joined by Chris Panteli and Nick Biggs, founders of Linkifi, to talk about how digital PR is evolving in a world dominated by AI, LLMs, and search engines that think like humans. We unpack what white hat link building actually looks like in 2025, why traditional press releases are outdated, and how AI is rewarding brands that build credibility, not just content.You’ll learn why getting quoted in tier-one media matters more than ever, how digital PR helps you show up in AI-generated answers (not just Google rankings), and how small businesses can compete with bigger brands by earning trust at scale. Whether you're doing your own outreach or hiring help, this conversation delivers actionable ideas to help your business stay visible, human, and relevant in the age of automation.Key Takeaways1. Digital PR is the safest, most effective way to earn backlinks in 2025.Unlike outdated SEO tactics, earned media links from credible publications are algorithm-proof and favored by both Google and LLMs.2. AI-driven search (AEO) rewards mentions, not just backlinks.Large language models prioritize authoritative brand citations even without links when generating conversational answers.3. Credibility across multiple sources boosts AI visibility.Getting quoted consistently across tier-one media builds trust signals that LLMs and users both recognize.4. Traditional PR tactics (like press releases) are mostly obsolete.Sending a press release about your latest product update won’t move the needle unless it’s genuinely newsworthy.5. Small businesses can earn tier-one coverage.You don’t need a massive budget, just a valuable perspective, a timely hook, and smart outreach.6. The news cycle is your opportunity to build authority.Newsjacking (when done ethically) allows you to insert your brand into relevant conversations journalists are already covering.7. Podcast guesting is a powerful form of digital PR.Appearing on trusted shows creates high-quality backlinks, content, and distribution across multiple platforms.8. LLMs will evolve to favor trusted, verifiable sources.Just like Google cracked down on low-quality SEO, AI search is moving toward rewarding brands that show up in credible places.9. You can’t control the narrative, but you can influence it.PR starts by aligning your voice with journalists’ needs; over time, this builds a consistent brand story across the web.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing® podcast, Mike Montague sits down with Owen Lawlor, VP of AI at CoachEm, to explore how AI can be used with humans, not against them. You’ll hear how CoachEm is helping sales leaders move beyond dashboards and activity metrics by using causal AI and machine learning to uncover why performance is lagging and what reps can do about it. Think Iron Man, not Terminator. This isn’t automation that replaces your people; it’s intelligence that makes them better.We dig into real-world applications for sales coaching, performance analysis, and learning interventions that actually change behavior. If you’re a sales manager, marketing director, or SMB exec trying to figure out how to make AI useful without feeling overwhelmed, this conversation will hit home. You’ll leave with practical takeaways about using AI to amplify your team's capabilities, scale coaching, and finally connect the dots between data and decisions.Key Takeaways1. AI should augment humans, not replace themOwen makes the case for using AI to make sellers superhuman, not obsolete, by giving them data-backed coaching, not just automation.2. Causal AI identifies why sales are off, not just what happenedCoachEm’s models go beyond surface-level metrics to uncover root causes behind missed quotas and underperformance.3. Sales enablement must be personalized to each rep.One-size-fits-all dashboards don’t work; causal AI tailors learning interventions based on each individual’s behavior and performance data.4. Managers are drowning in tools and need actionable insight, fastWith growing rep-to-manager ratios, frontline leaders don’t need more data; they need AI to tell them what matters most right now.5. Learning interventions can be automated, but never dehumanizedCoachEm uses AI to suggest coaching actions, but always keeps the human manager in the loop to approve or adjust the plan.6. Degenerative AI is a real risk; look backward before generating forwardInstead of only using AI to write sales content, CoachEm analyzes past emails, calls, and CRM behavior to determine what’s actually working.7. “Iron Man” is a better AI metaphor than “Terminator”Owen supports the Human-First idea that AI should be a suit around the human, giving reps enhanced abilities, not taking their job.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing® podcast, Mike Montague sits down with veteran CMO David Poulos to diagnose one of the most common but costly mistakes in small business marketing today: relying on AI without a clear strategy. They unpack how AI often becomes a shortcut to mediocrity, amplifying generic content, skipping the hard questions, and ignoring the very thing that actually drives growth: knowing your customer and having a plan that respects them.From AI-generated outreach to broken funnels and retention blind spots, this episode is packed with real talk for marketers, founders, and business leaders. You’ll learn why automation doesn’t fix a lack of clarity, how strategy needs to lead technology, not follow it, and what marketing malpractice looks like in 2025. Plus, they explore how to stay relevant without sounding robotic, and why context is the most underutilized ingredient in AI marketing today.Key Takeaways1. AI without strategy is malpractice.Using AI tools without a defined audience, offer, and marketing plan only accelerates poor decisions and creates more noise.2. Tactics don’t scale if the foundation is broken.Many businesses rely on tactical tools (SEO, email, social) without a strategic plan, so they plateau, stall, or misfire at scale.3. Best practices are just “average practices” in disguise.What worked for someone else won’t necessarily work for you; strategy must be customized to your business, your team, and your buyers.4. Most AI tools optimize for mediocrity, not excellence.Without human guidance, AI trains itself on the mean, not the top 20% of high-performing content or campaigns.5. You can’t outsource understanding your customer.No AI tool will replace the human work of listening, testing, and developing real audience insight.6. Don’t automate what you haven’t validated.Automating unproven or broken processes can tank results faster. Make sure the process works before you scale it.7. Retention is greater than acquisition for long-term growth.Chasing new customers while neglecting your existing ones creates a “leaky funnel” that no amount of AI can fix.8. Cold outreach is getting smarter, but still needs human backup.AI can write better intros and personalize emails, but it’s still up to your team to have real conversations and build trust.9. Fail fast, but don’t skip the learning loop.AI lacks the built-in reflection humans have; it needs input, feedback, and correction from humans who understand what “success” looks like.10. Your strategy should evolve faster than the tools.With new AI tools popping up daily, your competitive edge is your ability to adapt your thinking, not just your tech stack.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, host Mike Montague sits down with  ⁨@thechadburmeister⁩   , host of the AI for Sales Podcast and veteran AI entrepreneur, to explore how small and mid-sized businesses can harness AI without losing the human touch. Chad shares practical, battle-tested strategies for building custom GPTs in under an hour, using AI to create personalized outreach that gets 82% open rates, and aligning sales and marketing data to improve every conversation. You’ll hear why the most successful teams blend AI automation with human judgment to scale trust, not just transactions.Together, Mike and Chad dive into the dos and don’ts of AI-powered selling, from training models on your best messaging to avoiding the trap of generic “AI slop.” You’ll learn where AI can take repetitive, time-consuming tasks off your plate, where human nuance is still essential, and how to get your team comfortable and confident using AI. Whether you’re a business owner looking to empower your sales reps or a marketing leader aiming for consistent, on-brand outreach, this conversation will give you a roadmap to automate the work while keeping the connection that wins deals.Key Takeaways1. Build Your First Custom GPT – Creating a GPT trained on your company’s best content, messaging, and data can take less than an hour and instantly boost personalization.2. Train AI on Proven Messaging – Feeding AI examples of your top-performing emails or scripts helps it replicate your winning style instead of generating generic output.3. Use AI for Context, Not Just Content – AI can analyze customer data, personas, and pain points to make your outreach more relevant and engaging.4. Keep a Human in the Loop – Even the best-trained AI needs human review to ensure accuracy, tone, and alignment with brand voice.5. Focus on Trust-Building Tasks – AI can handle the busywork, but sales reps should focus their time on activities that deepen relationships and close deals.6. Avoid “AI Slop” – One-shot prompts without context lead to bad scripts; iterative collaboration with AI produces far better results.7. Leverage AI for Quick Wins – Use it for immediate needs like crafting proposals, summarizing meetings, or customizing event follow-ups to speed up sales cycles.8. Match AI Use to Buyer Stages – Automation works well for top and mid-funnel engagement, but late-stage deals often need a human touch to close.9. Personalize at Scale – AI enables tailored messaging for each prospect without adding to your workload, increasing open and reply rates.10. Think Long-Term with AI Integration – Building AI into your processes today sets you up for compounding improvements in efficiency and quality over time.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailMost salespeople dread roleplay training. It’s awkward, unrealistic, and rarely reflects the real challenges they face with prospects. In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with Michael Ocean, founder of Sell Me This Pen AI, to talk about a better way. Instead of building AI to replace sales reps, Michael built an AI-powered coaching assistant that helps them practice, improve, and perform without the pressure of a group setting or the pain of bad peer roleplays.We dig into why enterprise and complex sales still demand a human-first approach, how AI can uncover blind spots and skill gaps, and what makes roleplay effective when it’s personalized and repeatable. You’ll hear how SMBs can use AI to scale coaching, not cold calls; why safe practice leads to real confidence; and the right balance between AI feedback and human management. If you lead a sales team or want to sharpen your skills without the cringe, this episode is your playbook.Top Takeaways1. AI should enhance, not replace, salespeople – Complex, high-trust sales conversations still require human judgment and relationship building.2. Roleplays work best in a safe, personalized environment – AI lets reps practice without embarrassment or the limitations of a generic group scenario.3. Practice improves performance, but most teams don’t get enough of it – AI makes it possible to scale individualized coaching without overwhelming managers.4. AI can deliver unbiased, consistent feedback – Machine-led reviews focus on objective performance markers, not subjective impressions or mood.5. Managers are still critical for context and motivation – Human leaders can interpret performance data, address personal factors, and inspire change.6. Peer-to-peer roleplay often fails to reflect real buyer behavior – AI can simulate diverse personas and scenarios that mirror actual customer conversations.7. Repetition builds confidence and skill mastery – With AI, reps can repeat scenarios as often as needed without wasting a colleague’s time.8. AI reveals blind spots salespeople may not recognize – Pattern recognition and behavior tracking help uncover habits or weaknesses a human coach might miss.9. Balance is key between automation and human connection – AI should handle repetitive training tasks so humans can focus on relationship-building and strategy.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailToo many SMBs think a new headline, a prettier design, or the latest AI tool will magically turn their website into a lead machine. In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with marketing veteran James Hipkin to explain why most underperforming websites don’t have a copy or design problem; they have a strategy problem. You’ll learn why “inside-out” marketing stalls growth, how to shift to an “outside-in” approach that meets buyers where they are, and why messaging built for boomers can repel younger audiences like Millennials and Gen Z.James also shares the 80/20 rule for finding your most valuable customers, how to build content for people who have never heard of you, and practical ways AI can help you tailor messaging for different buyer personas without sounding robotic. If your business is stuck on a plateau, still relying too heavily on referrals, or wondering how to adapt to the self-service research habits of modern buyers, this conversation is a blueprint for building marketing that resonates, connects, and converts.Key Takeaways1. Most website problems are strategic, not cosmetic – Poor performance usually comes from a lack of a clear marketing strategy, not bad copy or visuals.2. Adopt an “outside-in” marketing mindset – Build messaging and offers around your audience’s journey, not just your own story or features.3. Your boomer-era marketing may repel younger buyers – Millennials and Gen Z expect self-service research and digital-first engagement, not phone calls and hard sells.4. The 80/20 rule can unlock growth – Focus on the top 20% of customers who generate most of your revenue, and design campaigns to attract more like them.5. Strangers need different messaging than referrals – Don’t assume new prospects know your values, reputation, or track record—build content that educates and builds trust from scratch.6. AI works best when it’s trained on your voice and audience – Use AI to adapt content for different personas, not to mass-produce generic marketing.7. Chatbots should provide value, not push for a call – Modern buyers will engage with bots if they get answers, resources, and useful guidance without pressure.8. Meet customers where they are in their decision journey – Offer the right content at the right stage, from initial research to final decision, to keep prospects moving forward.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIf your marketing blends in, it’s already losing. In this episode, Mike Montague sits down with  @schwedelson   , CEO of Outcome Media, founder of SubjectLine.com, and host of the Do This, Not That podcast, to talk about why “boring” is the silent killer of your campaigns. Jay shares why AI isn’t the enemy, but a partner for amplifying creativity, and how SMBs can use it to produce attention-grabbing ideas that cut through the tidal wave of generic content.From meme-powered event promotions that generated millions of organic views, to practical tips on balancing “feed the beast” consistency with big creative swings, Jay gives a masterclass in marketing that stands out without burning you out. You’ll hear how to avoid the trap of overcomplication, why focusing on simple, human ideas works, and how to create moments that make your audience stop scrolling and start engaging.Key Takeaways 1. Boring is the real competition – In a crowded market, blending in is more dangerous than making mistakes; safe content gets ignored.2. AI is your partner, not your replacement – Use AI as an editor, idea generator, and assistant, not as a content factory that strips away your humanity.3. The tidal wave of generic content is an opportunity – The more AI slop out there, the easier it is for authentic, human-centered marketing to stand out.4. Niche down to the basics – Most people don’t need cutting-edge tactics; simple, easy-to-implement ideas resonate with a far wider audience.5. Make your own GPT – Training a private GPT on your own content and voice can unlock faster idea generation and better alignment with your brand.6. Create “firehose moments” – Big attention spikes from events, stunts, or campaigns are essential for staying top-of-mind throughout the year.7. Feed the beast consistently – Maintain baseline activity on key channels so your brand never sends a “we’re out of business” signal.8. Mix quantity with creativity – Send more emails, post more often, but focus on good-enough consistency while saving energy for bold, high-impact ideas.9. Leverage cultural formats like memes – Repurposing familiar templates with your message can spark massive organic reach for very little cost.10. Simplify your focus – Limit email checking, avoid constant reaction to “noise,” and go deep on the channels and formats you actually enjoy.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, host Mike Monague sits down with Hunter Jensen, founder and CEO of Barefoot Solutions, to explore how AI is transforming software development, data workflows, and productivity across industries. From building custom applications to launching Compass, an AI-powered, self-hosted enterprise platform, Hunter shares how mid-market businesses can use AI strategically without relying on one-size-fits-all tools. With experience supporting organizations like NASA, IMAX, and the Department of Defense, Hunter offers a front-row view into how businesses are radically rethinking operations in the age of intelligent automation.Listeners will gain insight into how AI is disrupting engineering and marketing teams alike, why the "last mile problem" is still unsolved, and what it means to compete as an SMB in a post-ChatGPT world. Hunter and Mike unpack real-world use cases from proposal automation in regulated industries to AI-assisted patent workflows alongside their shared belief that impact, not effort, is what matters now. Whether you're a business owner, CTO, or marketing director, this episode offers practical takeaways for building smarter, faster, and more human-first organizations.Key Takeaways1. AI Has Made Coding Exponentially Faster, But Not Fully SeamlessAI tools have drastically reduced the time required to develop applications, but integrating and scaling them still requires experienced engineers to manage the “last mile.”2. MVP Development Is More Accessible Than EverWith platforms like Supabase and Vercel, even non-engineers can now build functional MVPs, dramatically lowering the barrier to entry for tech innovation.3. Custom AI Platforms Are the Future for Mid-Market CompaniesUnlike massive enterprises building in-house and small businesses using off-the-shelf tools, mid-sized companies need flexible, semi-custom AI solutions to stay competitive.4. Productivity Gains Must Be Tied to Business Impact, Not Hours WorkedSelling hours is outdated; the new value model is based on insight, output, and impact, especially as AI reduces task time from hours to minutes.5. Self-Hosted AI Can Unlock Productivity in Regulated IndustriesBy developing internal tools like Compass, companies dealing with sensitive data can benefit from AI without compromising security or compliance.6. AI Can Improve Both Speed and Accuracy in Complex TasksFrom patent review to clinical trial documentation, AI systems not only accelerate work but also often reduce human error in data-intensive processes.7. Every AI Output Still Needs a Human in the Loop,  For NowDespite major advancements, outputs must be reviewed and refined by people to ensure quality and trustworthiness in critical business functions.8. AI Is a Platform, Not Just a ToolBusinesses should stop thinking in isolated “use cases” and instead architect AI as an integrated platThe 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if your next client wasn’t in your funnel, but sitting in your guest seat? In this episode, Mike Montague chats with podcasting strategist Doug Sandler of Turnkey Podcast about how small business owners can stop chasing downloads and start using their podcast as a smart, AI-assisted lead generation engine. Doug shares his proven “Guest to Gold” strategy, helping SMBs turn interviews into income by focusing less on fame and more on who’s in the room.They unpack how AI has made it easier than ever to launch and scale a podcast, but why strategy still matters more than software. You’ll learn how to reverse-engineer your goals, avoid the trap of “ego metrics,” and monetize micro-audiences through relationships, referrals, and relevance. If you want a content strategy that actually drives business, not burnout, this one’s for you.Top Takeaways 1. Podcasting is a business tool, not just a branding toolUse your show strategically to build relationships with potential clients, partners, and referral sources, not just to grow an audience.2. You don’t need millions of downloads to make moneyA micro-niche podcast with 200 listeners can drive more revenue than one with 2 million passive followers if you target the right people.3. AI has streamlined production, but strategy still winsWhile AI can help you create faster, human thinking is still required to align your content with real business outcomes.4. Reverse-engineer your podcast goals from the startWhether you want leads, influence, or community, defining your objective will shape your content, guests, and promotion plan.5. The “Guest to Gold” framework turns interviews into incomeTreat every guest as a potential client, referral partner, or collaborator, and follow up with intention, not just gratitude.6. Avoid the content hamster wheel with smart repurposingUse AI to extract short clips, show notes, and blog posts from your episodes, then share where your audience actually hangs out.7. Sponsorships are optional, not essential.Most SMBs will see better ROI by monetizing relationships than by chasing ad dollars or download milestones.8. Focus on value, not vanity metrics.Downloads are an ego metric; revenue, referrals, and real relationships are what make a podcast successful.9. You can start small and still win big.You don’t need perfect equipment or production, just a focused message and a clear strategy to serve your niche.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if SEO isn’t dead, it’s just grown up? In this episode, Daniel Molina of Red Palm Studios joins us to talk about the future of search in the age of AI overload. From "plumber near me" to advanced local strategies, Daniel breaks down why quality content, strong reviews, and authentic online presence matter more than keyword stuffing or lazy automation. He shares lessons from scaling his own agency, failing forward as an entrepreneur, and why local businesses still have massive opportunities if they focus on what really works.We also unpack the rise of AI-generated content, what Google’s algorithm is really rewarding in 2025, and how human-first storytelling still beats out AI slop every time. Whether you’re a business owner trying to get found or a marketing director wondering how to stand out in an AI-saturated feed, this episode delivers clear, honest advice on where SEO is headed and how to stay ahead of it.Top Takeaways 1. SEO Isn’t Dead,  It’s Just SmarterThe old tricks like keyword stuffing and thin blogs are gone; what works now is strategic content with real user value.2. Local SEO Is More Alive Than Ever“Near me” searches and Google Maps rankings still drive massive results for service businesses if they build trust signals.3. Quality Content Is Only Part of the Pie NowContent used to be 80% of SEO success; now it’s just one part alongside reviews, backlinks, and social signals.4. Google Is Prioritizing Relevance, Not VolumeThe spam update cleaned house in 2023, and traffic dropped because irrelevant content and bot traffic got filtered out.5. AI Can’t Replace Human ContextGenerative tools are everywhere, but without real insight and intent behind the content, they won’t help rankings or conversions.6. Authority Comes from Outside Your WebsiteGoogle looks at what others say about you (reviews, citations, backlinks), not just what you publish on your site.7. Entrepreneurial Focus Beats Shiny Object SyndromeDaniel’s growth came when he stopped chasing new projects and committed to becoming excellent at marketing.8. AI Is a Tool, Not a StrategyHe warned against relying on AI tools without a human-first approach that understands your customer and context.9. Trust Is the New SEO CurrencyReal results come from being known, liked, and trusted, not gaming the algorithm.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat if the AI revolution isn’t about replacing humans but finally giving small businesses the edge? In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing® Podcast, Mike Montague talks with  ⁨Melissa Fors Shackelford⁩  , a seasoned marketing leader turned fractional CMO, about how AI is flattening the marketing landscape. They explore how tools once exclusive to Fortune 500 budgets are now accessible for under $100 and how that changes the game for nimble teams who move faster, connect deeper, and create with more authenticity.Melissa shares lessons from her shift from corporate healthcare to boutique consulting, the difference between AI governance in large orgs versus agility in small ones, and how marketers can ditch the “PowerPoint factory” mindset for smarter systems. You’ll learn why small businesses now have the unfair advantage and how to use it without losing your brand’s soul. It’s a candid, hopeful conversation for anyone who wants to scale their voice, not just their content.Top Takeaways 1. AI is a Force Multiplier for Small TeamsWhat used to take big budgets and departments can now be done with the right $20/month tools and strategic use of AI.2. Authenticity Still Wins, Even with AIAI can scale your message, but your purpose, personality, and point of view still matter more than ever.3. Small Businesses Are More Agile than Big BrandsWhile enterprises wrestle with AI governance and bureaucracy, smaller teams can test, learn, and move faster with less risk.4. Fractional CMOs Are Finally Feasible and PowerfulThanks to AI, experienced marketers can now bring enterprise-level strategy and execution to SMBs without needing a full team.5. PowerPoint Isn’t a Strategy, It’s a SymptomToo many corporate marketers spend their time making decks instead of driving strategy; AI helps shift that dynamic.6. You Don’t Need a Full Tech Stack to WinThoughtful use of tools like ChatGPT, Gamma, and Grammarly can replace multiple roles without compromising quality or voice.7. Start with Curiosity, Not PerfectionMelissa emphasizes trying new tools in small, scrappy ways to learn what works rather than waiting for a perfect plan.8. AI Should Handle the Tedious, Not the TrustLet automation do the repetitive work, so you can stay focused on creativity, leadership, and real human connection.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Human First AI Marketing podcast, host Mike Montague sits down with Mark Andrews of AI  Prophets  to explore what AI literacy really means for small and medium-sized businesses. Together, they break down the myth of AI as an all-knowing wizard and instead reframe it as a tool, like a chainsaw, that can dramatically increase productivity when used correctly. From upskilling employees and integrating AI into daily workflows to the biggest mistakes businesses are making with data and vendor strategies, this conversation delivers essential insights for leaders navigating the evolving AI landscape.Mark shares a ground-level view of how SMBs can start applying AI today, without getting overwhelmed by hype or enterprise-scale complexity. You’ll learn about three key domains of AI data science, generative AI, and automation, and how to identify time-saving opportunities in marketing, operations, and reporting. Whether you're a frontline marketer, business owner, or director trying to build smarter systems without losing the human touch, this episode offers tactical advice, real-world analogies, and a refreshing dose of clarity on using AI to work smarter, not harder.Top Takeaways 1. AI is a productivity tool, not a magic solution Mark emphasizes treating AI like a "chainsaw", a powerful tool that requires skill, practice, and intention to be effective.2. Focus on AI literacy before automation Many teams jump to automation too quickly; instead, start with understanding how AI works and where it fits into real-world tasks.3. Start with real business problems, not AI hypeIdentify repetitive, time-consuming workflows first, then explore whether AI is the right solution, rather than applying it blindly.4. Data access and context matter more than prompts alone Sophisticated prompting only works if users have access to quality internal data and understand their workflows deeply.5. Bottom-up AI adoption is more scalable than top-down overhaulsLarge-scale consulting efforts often fail; meaningful AI integration comes from solving small, real problems first.6. Small businesses have a speed and agility advantage Unlike enterprises tied to rigid platforms, SMBs can test and iterate with AI tools faster, gaining practical value sooner.7. Don’t wait for perfect data to get started.Many organizations stall waiting for a clean data infrastructure. Mark suggests using generative AI and experimentation to drive momentum early.8. Strategic AI use can upskill employees and shift job rolesAI doesn’t just cut tasks; it frees up time for deeper, more impactful work when used intentionally across teams.9. Not all AI tools are equal. Build AI into workflows, not just on top. Tools designed with AI at the core (like Gamma) often outperform traditional software with AI bolted on after the fact.10. Learning how to ask better questions is a critical skill Teaching teams how to prompt, frame problems, and 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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailWhat’s really going on with AI video in 2025? In this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, Emmy-winning producer Erich Archer joins Mike Montague for a refreshingly honest look at what AI can and can’t do for video creators, marketers, and SMBs. From instant B-roll to multi-language avatars and deepfakes, we explore the tools making video more accessible and the limitations that still keep human creativity at the center.You’ll hear why editing is the true entry point for most teams, where generative video still falls short, and how small businesses can use AI to tell better stories without sounding fake or falling into the AI slop trap. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or somewhere in between, this episode helps you separate signal from noise and build a smarter, more human-first video strategy.Top Takeaways 1. AI Video Is Easier, But It’s Not a ReplacementTools like Runway and Pika make video creation faster, but they don’t replace the craft or nuance of traditional production.2. The “AI Look” Is Still Real and Often DistractingEven with the best tools, many AI videos still feel artificial, with glitches or uncanny visuals that break trust with viewers.3. Editing Is Where AI Delivers Immediate ROIFrom cutting out filler words to remixing music and matching scenes, AI has revolutionized post-production and made editing faster and smarter.4. AI Is Expanding Access for New CreatorsYou no longer have to move to L.A. or own expensive gear to start producing video content; AI has lowered the barrier to entry in exciting ways.5. Professional Use Still Requires Professional JudgmentWhile AI can generate quick drafts, pro-level results still depend on the human eye for quality, context, and storytelling.6. Creative Roles Are Evolving, Not VanishingEntry-level roles may be shifting, but producers and storytellers who learn AI tools will become more valuable, not less.7. AI Video Shines Most in Utility, Not Artistry (Yet)Use AI for voice dubbing, translation, or fast prototyping, not for high-end brand videos that require emotional resonance and realism.8. The Ethical Line Is Blurry, But CrucialDeepfakes and AI reenactments can be powerful, but they also raise serious questions about consent, trust, and authenticity.9. Adoption Is About Mindset, Not Just ToolsThe pros who thrive in this new landscape are curious, flexible, and willing to experiment even if it means letting go of old ways.10. Generative AI Is a New Medium, Not Just a ShortcutThink of AI like animation or film; it’s not a faster way to do what you already do, it’s a new creative lane with different rules and potential.LinkedIn Profile: http://linkedin.com/in/ericharcher/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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.

Send us Fan MailIf AI has you feeling like you’re falling behind or drowning in prompts and platforms, this episode is your reset button. Mike Montague sits down with Ali Schwanke, CEO of Simple Strat and host of HubSpot Hacks, to unpack the real opportunities (and traps) SMB marketers face in today’s AI-fueled landscape. They break down how to stay creative in a world where everyone has access to the same playbooks and why “doing more” isn’t the same as “doing what works.”You’ll hear smart, honest takes on AI anxiety, content overload, distribution strategies that actually work in 2025, and the underrated power of creative courage. Whether you’re leading marketing for a B2B brand or running the show as a small business owner, this conversation will help you stop chasing tools and start leading with strategy.Top Takeaways1. Strategy is greater than Tools.AI isn’t the strategy, it’s a toolset; your strategy should still be grounded in how real people make buying decisions.2. Analysis Paralysis is the Real EnemyWith so many AI options, marketers get stuck in overthinking instead of executing aligned, intentional campaigns.3. Creative Courage is the New DifferentiatorIn a world where AI gives everyone access to the same ideas, brands win by making bold, untested, human-first moves.4. Distribution Is Where the Game Is ChangingIt's not about where you publish, it’s about who sees it, and trusted referrals and partnerships are outperforming ads.5. Marketing Has Fragmented, And That’s OKYou don’t need to do everything; you need to do the right things for your audience, consistently and confidently.6. AI Doesn’t Equal Certainty of OutcomesEven great AI outputs don’t guarantee results; you still need human judgment to prioritize and refine.7. Consistency Builds TrustMany marketers quit too early; trust and results come from showing up repeatedly, not from jumping to the next shiny thing.8. Live Events and Human Moments Are Making a ComebackIn-person dinners, niche gatherings, and face-to-face conversations are generating higher ROI than mass digital efforts.9. AI Should Help You Scale Your Voice, Not Replace ItSuccess comes when AI reflects your unique brand personality, not when it floods the feed with generic content.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.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!Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch here.