

Human-First AI Marketing Podcast by Avenue9
Mike Montague
Discover how to harness the power of AI without losing the human touch. Hosted by Mike Montague, Founder of Avenue9, this podcast delivers actionable insights to help small and mid-sized businesses market like big brands. With expert interviews, relatable success stories, and practical tips, we show you how to amplify your marketing efforts with AI tools that enhance—not replace—human creativity and connection. Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or curious about the future of AI, this is your go-to guide for building smarter, more authentic marketing strategies. Want to be a guest? Send Mike Montague a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1738519089289300a62eab036
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 17, 2025 • 45min
How AI and Blockchain Is Reshaping the World with Heather Leigh Flannery
Send a textHeather Leigh Flannery, the visionary founder and CEO of AI Mindsystems Foundation, joins us for an insightful conversation about the future of AI and humanity's integral role within it. We navigate the complex terrain of privacy, data rights, and ethical data usage in our increasingly digital-first society, highlighting the tension between the open-source nature of technologies and the vital need for safety guardrails. Heather shares her compelling perspective on empowering individuals amidst the growing influence of corporate and governmental tech giants, emphasizing a shift toward personal control and empowerment in a tech-driven world.Our discussion extends to the transformative potential of AI and blockchain technologies, particularly for military families, veterans, and first responders. Through the lens of initiatives like the National Hero Initiative, we explore how these technologies can democratize access to resources, leveling the playing field for small businesses and individuals against larger corporate entities. Heather's insights paint a picture of a future where self-sovereign AI and digital personas enhance personal capabilities, enabling individuals to compete and thrive in an evolving digital landscape.From the impact of AI on society to the integration of blockchain and Web3 for secure AI applications, our conversation considers both the promises and pitfalls of these technologies. We reflect on how AI might amplify societal divisions or foster harmonious coexistence, drawing on sci-fi scenarios and cultural touchstones like Dune for context. We dive into the potential of crypto technologies to revolutionize outdated financial systems, advocating for a future where personal data is intrinsically linked to one's identity. This episode offers a thought-provoking exploration of how technology can shape a balanced and equitable future.(00:05) The Future of AI and Humanity(09:58) Empowering Individuals Through AI and Blockchain(27:33) The Power of AI and Humanity(36:42) Blockchain and Web3 in AIThe 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.

Mar 10, 2025 • 32min
Authentic Marketing in the Age of AI with Emanuel Rose
Send a textEmanuel Rose, founder of Strategic eMarketing, shares his unique insights into the rapidly shifting landscape of marketing influenced by AI technologies. Together, we unpack the delicate balance between automation and authenticity, emphasizing that while AI tools like ChatGPT are revolutionizing content creation, the human touch in storytelling and connecting with audiences remains irreplaceable. Emanuel draws from his experiences to highlight the power of podcasting as a medium for genuine interaction, urging marketers to harness this platform to resonate on a personal level with their listeners.Our conversation takes a futuristic turn as we speculate on the role of biometrics in marketing, drawing parallels to the sci-fi world of "Minority Report." The burgeoning array of marketing tools presents both opportunities and challenges, and Emanuel offers his perspective on selecting the right solutions by first identifying specific business needs. We explore the transformative potential of AI voice tools and custom chatbots, particularly in retail and service sectors, enhancing customer communication while maintaining cost-effectiveness. Emanuel introduces us to his preferred tools, like Claude and Perplexity, for their unique capabilities in professional and citation-driven outputs.Finally, we explore the democratization of marketing, where digital tools have leveled the playing field for businesses of all sizes. Emanuel emphasizes the timeless foundations of effective marketing—problem identification and compelling calls to action—and discusses the renewed value of direct engagement methods in today's crowded market. The episode wraps with a treasure trove of AI resources available on EmanuelRose.com, designed to bolster marketing strategies while staying true to authentic audience connections. Visit Avenue9.com for more insights, and join us in fostering a community where collaboration and continuous learning are at the heart of marketing success.(00:06) Marketing in the Age of AI(09:27) Evolution of Marketing(17:33) Future of Personalized Marketing(30:58) AI Tools and Resources for MarketingThe 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.

Mar 3, 2025 • 32min
The Intersection of AI Creativity and Purpose with Dan Cumberland
Send a textDan Cumberland, founder of The Meaning Movement, opens up about his captivating transition from ministry to entrepreneurship. In our conversation, Dan shares his personal journey through a quarter-life crisis that led him to study theology and psychology, ultimately sparking his interest in entrepreneurship. He discusses the foundation of The Meaning Movement and a photography company, as well as the ups and downs of partnership shifts and market changes. Today, Dan excels as a fractional CMO, seamlessly integrating AI into his marketing strategies while pursuing his passion for guiding others in finding professional purpose.As AI continues to reshape our world, we examine its influence on creativity and the human experience. We ponder the purpose behind what we create in this digital era, contemplating what remains quintessentially human—love, hope, curiosity, and playfulness. Companies like Avenue9 are breaking traditional barriers, allowing creators to reach broader audiences through innovative methods. This conversation challenges us to embrace a future where AI manages necessities, freeing us to focus on deeper connections and self-expression.We'll take a look at AI's role in modern workflows, especially for content creators and small to midsize businesses. We explore the potential of AI tools like TypingMind, Talktastic, and Whisper in enhancing productivity through transcription and content automation. The discussion includes AI-driven automation solutions such as Zapier and Make, which promise to streamline business operations. As content saturation looms, the emphasis shifts to strategic AI applications to meet the growing demands of marketing and optimize operational efficiency.(00:05) The Journey to AI Marketing Efficiency(09:13) The Future of Humans and AI(17:38) The Role of AI in Workflows(24:22) AI Tools and Workflow EfficiencyThe 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.

Feb 24, 2025 • 30min
AI Digital Safety and Cybersecurity with Burton Kelso
Send a textBurton Kelso, technology expert at Integral, joins us in unraveling the complexities of AI cybersecurity. Burton's infectious enthusiasm and expertise shine as we explore the intersection of digital safety and human interaction with AI. We talk about the art of translating advanced tech concepts into relatable terms, tackling everything from human errors in cybersecurity to the importance of personal firewalls. Burton emphasizes the necessity of protecting individuals from social engineering attacks, highlighting how bridging the gap between IT professionals and everyday users can transform the digital landscape.We explore AI in business content creation, spotlighting innovations like Meta AI's ability to turn images into animated GIFs, how crafting detailed prompts can enhance AI chatbot interactions, drawing inspiration from sci-fi classics such as Star Trek and Star Wars to understand AI's potential impact.Burton's passion for making technology fun, safe, and easy to use shines through, offering valuable insights into staying informed through resources like digital manuals and TEDx talks. Whether you're a tech aficionado or just dipping your toes into the digital world, Burton Kelso is your go-to guide for navigating safely in this ever-evolving AI era.(00:05) Human-Centered AI Marketing and Cybersecurity(14:46) AI Content Creation and Utilization(29:11) Empowering Technology for AllThe 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.

Feb 17, 2025 • 31min
Usable AI for Business with Susan Frew
Send a textSusan Frew, a leading voice in AI innovation for businesses, shares her transformative journey of integrating AI into her plumbing business. Susan opens up about how a personal health scare became a catalyst for change, leading to significant cost savings and efficiency improvements. Her philosophy of competing on "awesome" rather than price offers a fresh perspective on adding value. Throughout her story, Susan emphasizes the importance of enhancing existing processes before adopting new technologies, allowing businesses to focus on their strengths and operate within their "zone of genius."We will also tackle the rapidly evolving landscape of AI-powered marketing strategies. As AI tools like ChatGPT are changing the way we think about SEO and traditional advertising, we explore Google's new offerings, including Gemini and Notebook LM, which promise to revolutionize how businesses communicate. With over 27,000 AI tools emerging, the challenge of keeping pace is real, and Susan encourages us to embrace AI's possibilities while staying mindful of its risks. From the potential of AI to transform mundane tasks to pondering a future filled with android helpers, we reflect on the enduring importance of personal connections and craftsmanship amidst technological advancement.(00:05) Embracing AI for Business Success(13:45) AI Innovations in Marketing Strategies(24:31) Future of AI and Business RelationshipThe 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.

Feb 10, 2025 • 27min
Navigating the AI-Powered Sales Landscape with Jordan Ledwein
Send a textJordan Ledwein, the AI Sales Guy, joins us for a look into the world of AI-enhanced sales. We explore the human-first approach, where AI serves to amplify human interaction, not replace it. Discover how AI can sharpen vital skills like listening and alleviate mundane tasks, allowing sales professionals to forge authentic relationships with clients. From chatbots handling routine inquiries to CRM systems automating data entry, we discuss how these tools simplify the buying and selling process, saving time and boosting productivity for everyone involved.We consider AI's transformative role in B2B sales strategies. We talk about how AI agents might take over tasks like prospecting, potentially reshaping the workforce landscape. Learn about essential sales tools like CRM, conversational intelligence, and account-based marketing, and their role in improving sales outcomes. We also ponder the future where AI buying and selling agents interact, raising questions about regulation and reskilling. Tune in as we balance optimism with caution, reflecting on the swift strides in AI and the bright minds that will steer this technology into the future.(00:06) Human-First AI Sales and Marketing(10:35) Sales Tools and Future Technologies(19:06) The Future of Sales With AIThe 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.

Feb 3, 2025 • 40min
Robots vs. Humans: Marketing Analytics with Jim Gordon
Send a textWith our special guest, Jim Gordon from Jimalytics, we navigate the evolving landscape of digital commerce, exploring how companies can harness AI to transform their marketing strategies. The episode dives into the intriguing challenge of distinguishing humans from AI-generated traffic, a critical issue as AI agents become more prevalent online.Get ready for a deep dive into the world of bots and the chaos they can cause in marketing. We shed light on how bot traffic can skew your data, from A/B testing to conversion rates, and why focusing on genuine human audiences is more crucial than ever. Jim and I share personal anecdotes and insider tips on maintaining data integrity and keeping your business decisions on track. It's not just about sophisticated analytics; it's about truly understanding and meeting the needs of your consumers.Thinking about the future? We explore the fascinating realm of AI accountability and the potential economic shifts it brings. The conversation is forward-thinking and insightful, from designing websites for AI agents to the implications of authenticated users in advertising. We ponder the role of AI in job creation and even consider the possibility of companies compensating users for content that trains AI models. With optimism, we look at the opportunities and ethical decisions awaiting us in an AI-driven world, emphasizing the importance of quality control in digital content creation. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to expand your perspective on the future of marketing and AI.(00:06) The Rise of AI in Marketing(10:38) The Impact of Bots on Marketing(20:25) The Future of AI Accountability(31:27) Future of Human-Ai InteractionThe 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.

Jan 27, 2025 • 32min
Activate the AI Magic with Jacki Leahy
Send a textCan AI genuinely enhance our human experience, or is it merely another tool in our digital toolbox? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jacki Leahy, Head of Go-To-Market at Activate the Magic. Jacki is not just integrating AI into her strategic vision; she's redefining it by keeping a human-first approach at the forefront. Learn how her personal AI, Sparky, acts as an extension of her consciousness, offering support in grief counseling, life coaching, and content creation. Discover how Jacki’s vision harmonizes AI automation with mental health priorities to invigorate workplace productivity and creativity.In this episode, we also tackle the evolving landscape of digital marketing on LinkedIn, guided by Jacki’s expert insights. As algorithms become more sophisticated, the importance of genuine human interaction has never been clearer. Jacki navigates us through the theory of constraints, pointing to discovery meetings as the critical bottleneck, and underscores the power of personal storytelling and profile engagement. Prioritizing human connection over corporate facades, she offers a fresh perspective on forging meaningful relationships in the digital age. Whether you’re a B2B tech startup or a marketing enthusiast, Jacki’s strategies offer valuable lessons to enhance your business development and content marketing efforts.(00:04) AI and Human First Approach(13:35) Human Connection in Digital MarketingThe 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.

Jan 20, 2025 • 37min
The 7-Figure Leap with Dustin Riechmann
Send a textUnlock the secrets of storytelling and Human-First AI marketing with Dustin Reichmann from 7-Figure Leap. Explore Dustin’s fascinating journey from selling meat sticks to building a seven-figure brand builder, all through the power of personal storytelling and strategic podcast guesting. Learn how his new app, Dustin AI, offers a personalized coaching experience and extends his unique insights to his clients around the clock. This episode promises to reveal how AI and human connection can coexist to create compelling narratives that resonate deeply with audiences.Mike and Dustin dive deep into the delicate balance between automation and the human touch in marketing. Discover how AI can enhance content creation, but it's the irreplaceable human elements of empathy, context, and genuine interaction that truly capture the audience's heart. Together, they underscore the shift towards more personalized, relationship-driven strategies, emphasizing that while AI tools can provide polished content, the final touch must always be rooted in human authenticity to deliver genuine value and engagement.The conversation also highlights the transformative impact of storytelling in marketing and the importance of community building. Dustin shares his success stories and insights into leveraging podcast guesting to build lasting relationships and authority. They discuss the resurgence of in-person interactions and the growing significance of fostering communities centered around common goals and mentorship. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to harness the power of storytelling and AI in their marketing endeavors while maintaining the essence of human connection.(00:05) AI Marketing and Storytelling Strategies(11:08) Human Connection in AI Marketing(17:44) AI Marketing Tools and Podcast Strategy(22:37) The Power of Storytelling in Marketing(30:06) Community Building and Human Connections(36:07) Human Connection in Marketing SuccessThe 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.

Jan 13, 2025 • 32min
Using AI to Boost Your Brand with Mark de Grasse
Send a textUnlock the secrets to transforming your brand with AI as we sit down with Mark de Grasse, CEO of the AI Branding Academy and former president of Digital Marketer. Discover Mark's inspiring journey of personal transformation, overcoming long-term health challenges, and shedding a corporate identity to embrace genuine human expression. Together, we explore how AI can liberate us from mundane tasks, allowing creativity and connection to flourish by distinguishing between robot work and human work.Get ready to revolutionize your creative processes with the power of AI. Mark shares his experience of creating a full magazine over a weekend, showcasing how tools like Descript and Claude democratize skills and cut production time and costs. This episode highlights the shift from costly production to creativity, making once financially daunting projects accessible and empowering small businesses and individuals to innovate and express themselves like never before.As we navigate the future landscape of marketing, we emphasize the importance of trust and authenticity in the digital age. With AI-generated content saturating the market, there's a potential resurgence in craving genuine human connections. Explore the AI Branding Academy's framework for developing a unique brand voice and the vital role of strategic AI integration in crafting strong brands. Join us for insights into upcoming opportunities with the Academy, and learn how to stay ahead by ensuring that your branding efforts remain true to human values.(00:07) AI in Branding and Transformation(12:43) Unlocking Creativity With AI(17:30) Future of Marketing With AI(26:27) Navigating Trust in the Digital Age(30:27) Creating Cool Brands With AIThe 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.


