Human-First AI Marketing Podcast by Avenue9

Send us a textIn this episode of the Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, Mike Montague sits down with Michael Buckbee, founder of Knowatoa, to explore how the rise of AI assistants like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity is reshaping the rules of discoverability. Michael challenges the idea that SEO is dead and instead reframes it as evolving—fast. The two dig into the shift from keyword rankings to AI-generated answers, the new role of content in driving buying decisions, and how companies can start showing up in AI tools that are replacing traditional search behavior.Whether you're a CMO looking for the next lead gen edge or a marketer trying to future-proof your content strategy, this episode offers a clear, human-first roadmap. You'll learn why the most important answers about your brand shouldn't be hidden behind forms, how to publish content AI can actually read and recommend, and why challenger brands have more opportunity than ever to outsmart big players. If your search strategy still begins and ends with Google, it’s time for an upgrade.Chapter01:15 – What Knowatoa Does and the AI Search Landscape  02:45 – Is SEO Dead or Just Changing?  05:30 – How Google’s AI Overviews Are Reshaping Search  07:20 – Why Traditional Content No Longer Wins in AI  09:00 – The Buyer Journey Is Still Happening—Just in AI  11:30 – How Challenger Brands Can Beat Big Companies in AI  13:15 – What to Publish: Comparison Guides, FAQs, & More  15:00 – SEO for ChatGPT: What the LLMs Are Looking For  17:00 – Why Blocking Bots Could Be Costing You Visibility  18:45 – The Biscuits Framework & Ranking in AI Search  21:30 – This Is the Cheapest AI Will Ever Be  24:00 – Action Steps for B2B Marketers  26:00 – Outro & Where to Learn MoreThe Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us a textLisa Oda, founder of HiveStir and Director of AI at Infinite Marketing, explores how AI is transforming modern marketing practices. Mike and Lisa dive into practical applications, including content repurposing, funnel optimization, prompt engineering, and persona-driven strategies. They also discuss how to effectively stack AI tools like Claude, ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Gamma to elevate marketing performance. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the buzz around AI or unsure of its true value, this episode will provide you with a clear and actionable understanding of how AI can help marketers work faster, sharper, and more effectively to deliver exceptional results.CHAPTERS01:02 – What “Human-First” Means in AI Marketing Lisa defines what it means to keep marketing human-centric, even as AI tools become more powerful.02:58 – The Rise of AI in Marketing Discussion about how marketers are the leading adopters of AI, and how good marketers are using AI as an “Iron Man suit,” not a shortcut.05:03 – The Power of Thoughtful AI Collaboration Why slowing down and thoughtfully integrating AI tools can actually accelerate better outcomes.07:00 – Task-Based Thinking: AI vs. Human Roles Lisa discusses her past work on the “Human Approach to AI” and how marketers should choose tasks wisely when integrating AI.09:03 – Lisa’s Favorite AI Tools & Workflow Hacks A walkthrough of Lisa’s toolstack—Claude, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gamma—and how she blends them to create effective workflows.11:19 – Collaborating with AI as a ‘We’ Why marketers should see AI tools as collaborators, not one-click solutions.12:19 – AI in Content Repurposing and Presentation Design How AI tools like Zoom, Gamma, and ChatGPT reduce post-production time and boost creative efficiency.14:30 – Staying Focused: AI as a Clarity Amplifier Lisa explains how AI helps prioritize messages and skip time-consuming design choices.16:29 – Cross-Platform AI Stack Tactics Mike and Lisa share how they use AI for image generation, website copy, social scheduling, and more.18:23 – The New SEO? AI Optimization & Discovery Channels An in-depth look at SEO in the age of AI, attribution, and the future of discoverability.22:37 – Marketing Funnel Optimization with AI Lisa shares how AI can support marketers across every stage—from awareness to conversion.25:56 – Persona Simulations and Real-Time Feedback Using ChatGPT personas to get “focus group” style feedback and refine content strategy.28:12 – Short-Term Strategies for 2025 Where marketers should spend time this year: analytics, personalization, and ethical automation.30:26 – Future-Gazing: AI, Robots, and Breakfast? A fun, futuristic look at where marketing—and life—might go withThe Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us a textWhat if your AI could do more than just answer questions? In this episode, Måns Näsman shares a powerful new vision of “dualistic AI,” where multiple humans and AI agents collaborate in real time to solve bigger problems, scale communication, and build startups faster than ever before. Instead of relying on narrow, task-based AI tools, Måns explores how entrepreneurs and small teams can use collective intelligence to find customers, manage projects, and connect with entire ecosystems of people through one intelligent interface.We talk about what this shift means for marketers, startup founders, civic organizations, and anyone looking to make a bigger impact with fewer resources. From AI-powered team building to real-time leadership updates and automated outreach that feels human, this conversation will challenge how you think about AI. If you’re ready to amplify your vision without losing the human connection, this one’s for you.00:00 – Welcome & Human-First Foundations Introducing Måns and the big question: What if AI could collaborate like humans?01:30 – Dualistic vs. Individualistic AI Why most AI tools are too narrow—and how dualistic AI connects people, not just tasks.03:00 – How Multi-Agent AI Works in Practice Using AI as your CRM, project manager, and recruiter—at the same time.05:30 – Scaling Leadership and Culture with AI How AI can bridge the communication gap between leaders and teams daily, not yearly.07:00 – What’s Exciting in AI Right Now? From AI job-hunters to massive SaaS growth in EdTech—entrepreneurial trends in 2025.08:45 – Marketing + AI = Better Timing and Targeting Matching messages with interest signals, and letting AI do outreach that feels human.10:15 – AI for Governments, Communities & the Underserved Using collective intelligence to solve big problems, not just sell more widgets.12:00 – The Future of Trust, Teamwork, and AI Validation Why the next leap in AI is about managing truth, trust, and collaboration at scale.13:30 – Final Thoughts: What SMBs Should Be Thinking About Now Don't wait for big tech. Start building smarter AI systems that scale your human voiceThe Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us a textMarketing legend John Jantsch from Duct Tape Marketing brings his experience and unique insights, unraveling the complex relationship between traditional marketing, the human touch, and the rise of AI technology. We explore how AI is revolutionizing marketing strategies while underscoring the timeless value of leadership and strategic insight. John's trademark metaphor of duct tape—simple yet effective—offers a compelling contrast to the transient nature of AI advancements and an increasingly automated world.We examine how businesses can maintain their unique identities amidst the sweeping influence of AI. With content saturation and decision-making increasingly self-directed, understanding buyer behavior and fostering genuine connections have never been more critical. We discuss the necessity of strong branding and trust, especially in industries where complex decisions require collaboration. John shares strategies for cutting through the digital noise with authenticity and real value, stressing the importance of foundational relationship-building in a crowded market.We also touch on the dynamics of family businesses as John's daughter takes the reins as CEO, blending structure with creativity. The episode concludes with thoughts on the rapid pace of technological advancements and the need for companies to adapt swiftly to ensure they remain distinct and connected to their core clients.(00:06) AI and Duct Tape Marketing Integration(14:27) Future Marketing Strategies and AI(22:27) The Future of Marketing and AI(30:04) Standing Out in the AI EraThe Human-First AI Marketing Podcast is brought to you by Avenue9. We use artificial intelligence to amplify your unique voice, empower your marketing team, and enable your scaling business to achieve big-brand success.Explore new avenues available with AI marketing at Avenue9.com.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us 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.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us 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.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us 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.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us 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.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us 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.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!

Send us 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.We’re not just another AI company trying to build robots to replace you. We will help make you the hero. We’re marketers, too, and we get how important creativity, empathy, and human insight are when connecting with your ideal clients. No matter where you’re starting from or how big your goals are, we turn modern marketing challenges into exciting opportunities. Let's get started with a discovery consultation!