

Real Business Connections
Ben Albert
REAL Conversations w/ REAL business leaders making a REAL difference in our world!!!!Yes, we’re a marketing podcast. We dive into social selling, content marketing, networking, and LinkedIn, but we’re so much more. We’re about the habits, mindsets, and strategies that create true growth, connection, and fulfillment.Host Ben Albert chats with everyone from world-famous marketers, entrepreneurs, and sales geniuses to behavior scientists, wellness experts, and even near-death experience survivors. Each guest brings raw stories and insights, bridging real business success with personal growth.His role? To pull out the best nibbles of wisdom, packing decades of experience into minutes for you, the listener.Yes, we get actionable. However, we also look at the story behind the story. This podcast is a deep dive into struggle, failure, frustration, and how to develop true resilience that actually leads to success.We tackle important topics such as:• Why networking matters in business• Proven ways to increase revenue• Building real connections in business• Content marketing for maximum visibility• Using LinkedIn for social selling success• Self-development goals for entrepreneurs• How human behavior shapes success• Mastering the art of persuasion• Tips to crush your business goals• Confidence in public speaking• How to ask the right questions• Creating an unforgettable brand• Storytelling that builds belonging• Habits for resilience in business• What is real success?Real Business Connections: on a mission to actually move the needle on 1 million lives, one conversation at a time!Show Key:LST= LEARN SPEAK TEACHROC: ROCHESTER(NY) BUSINESS CONNECTIONSFMF: FIFTEEN MINUTE FRIDAYHIT: REAL HITSBite: BEN'S BITESGG: Real Talk w/ GrowGettersAB²C Lunch Break Live - LinkedIn Panel Live Stream
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 26, 2026 • 54min
How AI Changes Your Customers w/ Mark Schaefer (LST #143)
Learn Speak Teach Episode #143 with Mark Schaefer.AI is evolving every day, and it is getting incredibly close to producing human-like responses. As this happens, the big question becomes: will the most human companies still win?In this episode, Ben is joined by Mark Schaefer, author, marketing thought leader, and a fourth time guest on the podcast. Mark also has a new book titled How AI Changes Your Customers. Together, they dive into the intersection of AI and humanity in business and unpack a critical question for our times: does the most human company still win even as artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated?Whether you want to stand out against the rising tide of AI or find new ways to blend technology with real human connection, this episode offers nuggets of wisdom to help your brand move to the next level. Grab a notebook and pen and tune in.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer[01:31] Human first companies[04:56] Tactical empathy[05:45] Strategic awkwardness[10:19] Creativity and art in businesses[17:15] AI in a decade[18:01] The Diaper Business blog[20:00] Offsite versus onsite marketing[23:08] AI as a decision marker vs overrides[26:46] Creating override in decision making[30:24] Transcendent content[35:39] Brand culture[39:05] AI relationships[45:03] Get Mark’s bookAmazon: https://www.amazon.com/How-Changes-Your-Customers-Marketing-ebook/dp/B0FQ67TBHF [47:19] Creative ways to use AIKey Takeaways: • "In the future, the most human company might be a blend of real people and AI."~Mark Schaefer [02:51]• "AI is not empathetic. It gives the illusion of empathy." ~Mark Schaefer [03:46]• "Behind these AI interactions is a business plan."~Mark Schaefer [05:01]• "The real human value comes down to vulnerability and shared experiences." ~Mark Schaefer [08:35]• What's missing in the business voice today is this human connection, friendliness, accessibility, and vulnerability. ~Dr. Philip Kotler [12:01]• "There's no such thing as a weakness.There's just an overdone strength." ~Mark Schaefer [40:16]• You've got to bring the thunder every time. In everything that you do, double down on the quality. It's really the only way to win in this noisy world.~Mark Schaefer [51:52]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Marketing Rebellion2. Belonging to the BrandKeep In Touch with Mark Schaefer:Website: https://businessesgrow.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markwschaefer/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MarkSchaefer —Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/ –LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Jan 19, 2026 • 51min
This Corporate VP Quit to Build an 8-Figure Business w/ Eric Winegard (RBC #152)
Rochester Business Connections Episode #152 with Eric Winegard.Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/lemHfNQRwbAIs it too late for you to transition from corporate to entrepreneurship? Eric Winegard believes it’s never too late. He walked away from corporate life as a top-producing Vice President and took a leap into entrepreneurship. Together with his wife, Eric has built Rare Blue Moon Marketing into an eight-figure business heading toward nine figures.In this episode, Eric Winegard joins Ben Albert on the show to share nuggets of wisdom on how we can create successful businesses no matter where we are. Eric advocates for starting marketing efforts by first understanding social media platforms and creating content that resonates with your audience. He also emphasizes the power of networking and shares how we can use AI to generate unlimited leads.Are you ready to take your business to the next level? Grab a notebook and pen, Eric has some powerful notes for you to take home.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer[01:22] Timing[02:22] The competitive Eric[04:37] The exit from corporate[08:21] Entrepreneurship mindset[10:23] Entrepreneurship takeaways[11:28] Services: addition vs subtraction[17:14] Limitless leads[24:02] Learn about Eric’s AIrunday.ai[24:35] Inception of Rare Blue Moon Marketing[32:50] Working with your partner[40:55] Business owner marketing[50:53] Support Eric WinegardInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericwinegardofficial/Website: https://rarebluemoon.io/eric-alexis-winegard/[52:27] Sales tipKey Takeaways: • People will tell you that the best producers don't always make the best managers, but a lot of times you can learn so much from them. ~Eric Winegard [03:46]• “There's a lot to learn in business. It's not just sales.” ~ Eric Winegard [09:51]• I think in a way AI is going to be a blessing because the birth rate is so low, the people to service these low-level jobs aren’t even going to be there. ~ Eric Winegard [15:23]• “No business relationship is built without trust, and trust is built through conversation.” ~Ben Albert [21:53]• “I can't stress enough how many people don't take this step because they're just insecure about what other people are going to say.” ~Eric Winegard [45:25]• “People do business with the best people.” ~ Eric Winegard [53:40]Keep In Touch with Eric Winegard:Website: https://rarebluemoon.io/eric-alexis-winegard/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-winegard-93892717/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ericwinegardofficial/ —Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/ –RBC is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Jan 12, 2026 • 47min
"It Can REGROW BODY PARTS?!" w/ Danielle (LST #142)
Learn Speak Teach Episode #142 with Danielle Fette.If you cut part of your finger and it fell to the floor, what do you think would be the best way to fix it? Have it sewn back? That’s the traditional approach medicine would take. Danielle Fette and her company have invented a technology that gives your body instructions to regrow the missing part of your finger. With this technology, sewing a body part back is no longer necessary.In this episode, Danielle Fette joins Ben Albert to discuss the revolution Fettech is bringing to the healthcare industry. Danielle and her husband, Clay Fette, are the co-founders of the company.Danielle tells Ben about surviving a plane fire in July 2025, becoming ‘the wound girl,’ and how she and her husband are transforming the healthcare industry through their companies, among other fascinating stories.Tune in for an in-depth conversation. During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer[01:39] July 2025[08:53] Reaction to trauma[09:37] Victim mentality[11:13] Dwelling versus moving on too fast[12:43] Latest trend[13:35] The power couple[17:34] Divide and conquer[24:00] Support Danielle FetteWebsite: https://www.fettech.com/ [26:55] Changing lives[29:22] Is Fettech hiring?[34:06] How Danielle became the wound girl[38:58] What’s next for Danielle?[44:38] Connect with Danielle FetteInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielle.fette/ Key Takeaways: • I try not to forget when I go through hard times, because then it makes me appreciate the good times, but I don't let it define me. ~Danielle Fette [09:10]• “If things were good all the time, I don't know how great we'd be at growing and evolving. There'd be no reason to.”~Danielle Fette [14:29]• Scarring is a beautiful thing. It's basically saying, "Hey, cells, let's quickly put a patch there so there's no further injury or an infection that happens in the body.” ~Danielle Fette [20:27]• We all want to feel good in life, but unless you get in tune with your health, notice when something feels off, and speak up for yourself, you're going to get screwed in healthcare. ~Maria Menounos [24:36]• You have to work with people you're able to communicate with and you respect, whether you see eye to eye or not. ~Danielle Fette [32:17]• “My motto is, we're all going to be patients one day. Treat people the way you want to be treated.” ~Danielle Fette [37:58]Keep In Touch with Danielle Fette:Website: https://www.fettech.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielle.fette/ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/danielle-fette —Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/ –LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Jan 5, 2026 • 52min
Ask Me Anything w/ Stan Phelps at GrowGetters ONLY (GG #29)
Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #29 with Stan Phelps.Most businesses lose their edge by imitating competitors instead of embracing their uniqueness. One powerful way to stand out is to do less of what everyone else does and focus on what truly sets your brand apart, creating a lasting impact.In this exclusive ‘Ask Me Anything’ episode from the Growgetters ONLY Inner Circle, we are thrilled to have Stan Phelps, a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, marketing strategist, customer experience expert and author of the Goldfish Series of books.Stan dives into the concept of Lagniappe, the idea of giving a little extra that leaves a lasting impression. Moreover, he shares the strategies he uses to ensure that the lessons from his talks continue to resonate with audiences long after the talks are over.As the conversation unfolds, he explains how to use Sampling in business effectively. He also explores the Purple Goldfish concept and how to ensure your unique offering aligns with the needs and desires of your ideal client.Finally, he breaks down what makes workshops successful and the common mistakes to avoid. He also shares insights from Pink Goldfish on embracing and owning your unique qualities.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Introduction[01:15] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com[01:46] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/[06:31] What is Lagniappe?[14:34] Lasting Lessons[20:41] Sampling[22:41] Purple Goldfish[26:24] Connecting with Clients[36:20] Workshops[44:11] Embrace Your Uniqueness[49:36] Connect with Stan• Website: https://stanphelps.com/Lagniappe/Key Takeaways: • Referral clients stay longer as customers and spend up to twice as much over their lifetime compared to non-referral clients. ~Stan Phelps [19:28]• On average, people who are already working with you know only 30% of your total capabilities. ~Stan Phelps [20:21]• Sampling is the idea of giving your customers additional taste and letting them try out an additional capability. ~Stan Phelps [20:41]• If you’re not pissing some people off, you’re probably not relevant to many. ~Stan Phelps [23:13]• Take care of the customers you have, and they will bring you the clients and valuable customers you want. ~Stan Phelps [29:25]• One way to stand out is by doing less of what everyone else does. ~Stan Phelps [45:58]• You begin to achieve success when you focus and become known for something. ~Stan Phelps [46:35]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. The Goldfish Series: https://stanphelps.com/books/Keep In Touch with Stan Phelps:Website: https://stanphelps.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stanphelps/Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/PurpleGoldfishBooksTwitter: https://twitter.com/StanPhelpsPG—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Dec 29, 2025 • 48min
The Speaker Coach: “Stage Fright KILLS Potential” w/ Jesse Cruz (RBC #151)
Rochester Business Connections Episode #151 with Jesse Cruz.Have you ever experienced stage fright? That sudden wave of panic just before you face an audience, when your heart races and your mind goes blank. It can make even the most prepared person doubt themselves, yet it’s not a sign of weakness.Today, Jesse Cruz shares tips on how we can deal with stage fright. Jesse Cruz is an internationally recognized, award winning speaker, best selling author, and coach specializing in speaker development. He is also the founder and CEO of Merge Worldwide.One powerful lesson Jesse shared came straight from his military experience: “Mission First.” This principle isn’t just for the battlefield; clarity on your mission and the people you’re serving is the foundation for success, both in business and when stepping up as a speaker. Keeping your mission in mind ensures that every decision and action moves you and your audience forward.According to Jesse, your phone should be your stage. It doesn’t matter how many followers you have; it’s a great starting point. You can go live on any of your social media platforms, for instance, once a week. Always look at it like a stage and never forget to put your audience at the center of your talk. Jesse also shares actionable tips on how to choose a topic and manage being on a physical stage.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer[01:29] Communication leadership in the military[02:37] Keynote speaking[05:53] Knowing your audience[07:32] Signature talks[11:21] On the spot workshop[13:44] How Jesse got into communication[15:42] Rejection[18:24] Finding your tribe[22:50] Playing small[26:11] Don’t mute your voice[26:58] Criticism[30:32] Your phone, your stage[33:18] Getting on a physical stage[38:54] Connect with Jesse CruzFacebook: https://web.facebook.com/jesse.cruz.5/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-cruz-133714164/ [41:58] Partner with Jesse[42:58] Choosing a topicKey Takeaways: • I believe if you want to go faster, you hire a master that can help you and has already walked the path that you've been on. ~Jesse Cruz [04:34] • Sometimes speakers get on stage, and they want to make the talk all about themselves, and it's not really helping. ~Jesse Cruz [04:52] • “Not every stage opportunity is your opportunity.” ~Jesse Cruz [07:48] • When someone's building out a signature talk, they want to focus on the universal principles that most humanity can agree upon. ~Jesse Cruz [09:44] • “Never take criticism from someone you wouldn't take advice from.” ~Jesse Cruz [27:51] • The people who are actually very successful, their criticism does not come from a place of envy or hatred. If they were to give you criticism, it's constructive criticism. ~Jesse Cruz [28:14] • “When you are building a business, don't listen to the people closest to you. Listen to the people closest to your goal.” ~Jesse Cruz [28:55] • “You actually have a stage in your pocket everywhere you go, because you have a phone.” ~Jesse Cruz [30:49] • “You don't have to have this crazy inspiring story to have a great message to share.” ~Ben Albert [40:46] • “Painful lessons usually turn into profitable lessons.” ~Jesse Cruz [43:59]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Erica Mallett Episode: https://realbusinessconnections.com/podcast/ericamallett/ Keep In Touch with Jesse Cruz:Website: https://mergeworldwide.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jesse.cruz.5 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-cruz-133714164 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessecruzspeaks/ —Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/ –RBC is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Dec 22, 2025 • 57min
Convert LinkedIn Activity into SALES w/ Richard Moore w/ Richard Moore (LST #141)
Learn Speak Teach Episode #141 with Richard Moore. The majority of people join LinkedIn to find new clients, yet many struggle to convert their engagement into actual business. You may be getting likes, follows, and comments, but are you actually converting them into sales?In this episode, Ben Albert speaks with Richard Moore, a conversion coach who specializes in helping coaches and consultants convert on LinkedIn through their content. He is also the founder of LinkedIn Client Accelerator and the Art of Sell.Richard discusses why spam happens, how to minimize it, and the best ways to reach out to potential connections. He also dives into cold-selling strategies and shares how to comment on LinkedIn in ways that resonate with your audience.As the conversation unfolds, he explains why copying successful LinkedIn personalities won’t get you the results you want and how to develop your own authentic presence that stands out.Lastly, Richard gives an inside look at his Art of Sell Membership program and how it benefits members. He also shares practical sales conversation tips you can start using right away to engage and confidently convert prospects.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer [01:00] LinkedIn Spam[11:12] Cold Selling[18:53] Commenting on LinkedIn[33:00] Copying Won’t Work[43:08] Art of Sell[50:46] Join Art of Sell• Website: https://www.therichardmoore.com/artofsell• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjamesmoore/[52:27] Sales Conversation TipKey Takeaways: • No one likes to be sold to, but they love shopping with their friends. ~Richard Moore [11:43]• The main reason most people join LinkedIn is to acquire new clients. ~Richard Moore [22:42]• LinkedIn deals originate from individual interactions, not from high-volume activity. ~Richard Moore [26:00]• Having money does not make the customer the prize. You are the prize because your role is to solve their problem with your solution. ~Richard Moore [53:25]• In sales, embodying your role as the expert is what closes deals. ~Richard Moore [53:36]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Justin Welsh2. Alex Hormozi3. Chris Van VlietKeep In Touch with Richard Moore:Website: https://www.therichardmoore.com/Art of Sell: https://www.therichardmoore.com/artofsellLinkedIn Client Accelerator: https://www.therichardmoore.com/linkedin-client-acceleratorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardjamesmoore/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.richard.moore/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@richardmoore8614/featured—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Dec 15, 2025 • 52min
Ask Me Anything w/ Heather Parady at GrowGetters ONLY (GG #28)
Real Talk with GrowGetters Episode #28 with Heather Parady.Many entrepreneurs struggle to break through the market noise and create content that truly resonates with their audience. However, by leveraging the art of storytelling in content creation, they can share their stories in a compelling way that captivates audiences and builds meaningful connections.“In this exclusive ‘Ask Me Anything’ episode from the GrowGetters Only community, we learn from Heather Parady, a short-form video strategist, master storyteller, and host of Unconventional Leaders.Heather dives into the psychology behind viral storytelling and shares insights on crafting videos that resonate with audiences. She discusses the origin of her ideas, what fuels her creativity, and how her unique personality influences the content she creates.Heather also provides practical guidance on getting started with storytelling through videos and navigating negative feedback. Additionally, she shares the tools she uses to simplify content creation and discusses how her videos impact her business.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Intro[01:32] Free community: weallgrowtogether.com[02:06] Join the GrowGetters community: https://growgettersonly.com/[06:40] Ideas[11:55] Personality[18:33] Inauthentic Guests[21:15] Storytelling[25:34] Negative Feedback[25:59] Website: https://www.heatherparady.com/untestimonials[40:08] Impact[41:30] Tools[45:14] Media company[49:31] Connect with Heather• Blog: https://www.heatherparady.com/blogKey Takeaways: • “If you have no tolerance for failure, you won’t create anything new.” ~Brené Brown [04:12]• “Energy is the most undeniable thing. You can’t fake it.” ~Heather Parady [13:29]• There is nothing more attractive or magnetic than being comfortable in your own skin. ~Heather Parady [13:44]• Use Negative Feedback Objectively. ~Heather Parady [44:35]• Sometimes you need to take a step back in order to move forward. ~Heather Parady [47:19]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Tommy RobinsonKeep In Touch with Heather Parady:Website: https://www.heatherparady.com/Podcast: https://www.heatherparady.com/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherParadyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherparady/Blog: https://www.heatherparady.com/blog—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–GrowGetters ONLY is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Dec 8, 2025 • 57min
The Hidden Truth About Wealth, Sales Psychology, and Self-Sabotage w/ Jeff C. West (LST #140)
Learn Speak Teach Episode #140 with Jeff C West.Many people hold misconceptions about money and wealth without realizing how these beliefs shape their decisions and limit their potential. Understanding and confronting these misconceptions is the first step toward true financial independence.Today, we are joined by Jeff C. West, renowned speaker and international authority on sales & leadership, and acclaimed author of business parables including The Unexpected Tour Guide, Said the Lady with the Blue Hair, Streetwise to Saleswise, and his most recent book, The Hidden Heist: Stop Robbing Yourself of Lasting Wealth.In the episode, Jeff shares the inspiration behind his latest book, The Hidden Heist, and gives listeners a glimpse of some of its powerful insights. He opens up about his writing journey, explaining how he got started, why he writes in parables, and where his ideas come from.Jeff also shares key sales lessons and uncovers common misconceptions about money and wealth, showing how these beliefs subtly shape our decisions.Finally, Jeff introduces his Fusion Point concept, a framework built on aligning emotion and logic to boost sales and client retention. In addition, he shares practical tips for effective business conversations.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer [01:27] The Hidden Heist[08:30] Sales Lessons[11:57] Money Misconceptions[16:13] Books: https://jeffcwest.com/books/[19:45] Journey Into Writing[27:13] Books in Progress[33:43] FusionPoint[45:43] Connect with Jeff• Website: https://jeffcwest.com/• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffCWestAuthorSpeaker• How Ordinary People Become Millionaires: https://bit.ly/48uMqOB[47:27] Business ConversationsKey Takeaways: • “Sales presentations make people talk, while sales conversations make people ask questions and listen.” ~Jeff C West [09:01]• Before anyone can change their actions, they must first change their mindset. ~Jeff C West [11:24]• “Every decision is a combination of logic and emotion. The decisions we make often depend on which emotion is in the lead.” ~Jeff C West [35:17]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Michael Connelly2. The Hidden Heist: https://jeffcwest.com/thehiddenheist/3. Streetwise to Saleswise: https://jeffcwest.com/saleswise/4. The Unexpected Tour Guide: https://jeffcwest.com/tutgbook/5. Said the Lady with the Blue Hair: https://jeffcwest.com/bluehairbook/6. How I Raised Myself From Failure To Success In Selling: https://bit.ly/4ieJkS07. The Lincoln Lawyer: https://bit.ly/44bwn5Z8. The Case for Christ: https://bit.ly/48i79E39. Endless Referrals: https://bit.ly/4p8ytvSKeep In Touch with Jeff C West:Website: https://jeffcwest.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcwest/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffcwest/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeff.west.330YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JeffCWestAuthorSpeakerBooks: https://jeffcwest.com/books/X: https://x.com/JeffCWestAuthor—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Dec 1, 2025 • 49min
Your Brand Amplified® by AI w/ Anika Jackson — USC Professor & Podcast Host (LST #139)
Learn Speak Teach Episode #139 with Anika Jackson.Artificial Intelligence (AI) is influencing nearly every industry and transforming the way we live, work, and connect with the world. Nevertheless, it’s essential to understand that AI is designed to enhance and support human efforts, not replace them.Joining us on the show is Anika Jackson, a professor at USC Annenberg specializing in digital media management and social media, where she pioneered an AI-first curriculum. She is also the founder and podcast host of Your Brand Amplified®.Anika shares insights on the latest trends in teaching AI. She explains what artificial intelligence is here to do for us, where it’s headed, and how its relationship with humans is evolving. She also opens up about her bold decision to leave her full-time job to pursue podcasting.Anika takes us through her podcasting journey, explaining why she started Your Brand Amplified®, the motivation behind it, and the strategies she’s using to grow and succeed in the podcasting world. For a fun twist, the episode wraps up with an AI-generated rap recap that creatively summarizes the key insights from the conversation.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer [01:08] Trends in Teaching AI[08:48] From Underdog to Empowering Growth-Minded Leaders:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKvTFcaQaBU[10:34] Understanding AI[20:50] Quitting Full-Time Job[25:48] Podcasting Journey[41:00] Podcasting Goals[43:11] From Underdog to Empowering Growth-Minded Leaders:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKvTFcaQaBU[43:34] Connect & Support AnikaPodcast: https://yourbrandamplified.com/Website: https://www.yourbrandedpodcast.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/[45:15] AI Rap RecapKey Takeaways:• As humans, we know where we’re headed and the goals we want to accomplish. AI helps us get there. ~Anika Jackson [08:12]• AI is a new species. ~Anika Jackson [10:35]• AI is your partner. It’s here to support you, not take your place. ~Anika Jackson [15:50]• The essence of being human lies in forming genuine connections. ~Anika Jackson [17:35]• There are enough people in the world for everyone to have a business. ~Anika Jackson [23:18]• If you follow your passion and what you’re highly skilled at, money will follow. ~Anika Jackson [25:40]• AI helps, but it doesn’t lead. ~Anika Jackson [46:36]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Suno AI2. ClaudeKeep In Touch with Anika Jackson:Podcast: https://yourbrandamplified.com/Website: https://www.yourbrandedpodcast.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anikajackson/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amplifywithanika/—Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/–LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/

Nov 24, 2025 • 54min
Will AI Take My Job? w/ Matthew Rouse (LST #138)
Learn Speak Teach Episode #138 with Matthew Rouse.Lately, layoffs have become the order of the day. Companies are replacing people with AI to cut costs and increase efficiency. As a result, many people are afraid for their jobs. But the truth is ,AI isn’t the devil it’s been painted to be. It has its good, bad, and ugly sides. Matthew Rouse, author, digital marketing expert, and self-proclaimed “AI Chicken Wrangler,” joins Ben Albert on the podcast to tackle one of today’s hottest questions: Will AI take my job?Matthew Rouse, author, digital marketing expert, and self-proclaimed “AI Chicken Wrangler,” joins Ben Albert on the podcast to tackle one of today’s hottest questions: Will AI take my job?From the rise of fully automated, AI-generated podcasts to the impact of machine learning on everything from technical support to farm labor, Ben and Matthew dive deep into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we work, communicate, and even socialize.They explore both the promise and pitfalls of AI, sharing personal stories and real-world examples of AI’s growing influence in editing, transcribing, and even job searching. Matt also reveals key insights from his new book, Will AI Take My Job 2? discussing not just which jobs are at risk, but also how we can partner with AI to stay ahead. This episode brings a candid look at the “good, the bad, and the ugly” future that technology might bring.Grab your notebook and pen, you’ll want to take notes for this tech-driven future.During this episode, you will learn about:[00:00] Trailer[01:09] Will AI take my job?[04:21] AI-generated podcasts[07:20] Bot conversations[14:08] Jobs AI is guaranteed to take[18:08] The ugly[21:02] The bad[24:35] The good[25:55] AI in farming[27:39] Grab Matthew’s book Will AI Take My Job 2?Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Will-AI-Take-Job-Organizations-ebook/dp/B0FNNKV5GLWebsite: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/[30:11] Training AI for the future[32:23] The AI Chicken Wrangler[34:41] Controversial AI takes[37:46] Transparency in AI[40:45] Household robots[45:23] Connect with Matthew RouseLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/Website: https://matthewrouse.com/[46:41] Partnering with AIKey Takeaways: • “50% of people surveyed said they do not want to listen to AI-created podcasts.” ~Matthew Rouse [09:39]• If the point with AI is to get information across, it's fine. But if the point is to have a human connection with people, then no. ~Matthew Rouse [06:49]• “In my world, almost 100% of businesses are using AI.” ~Matthew Rouse [17:35]• “If we think for one minute that there isn’t going to be automation or robots everywhere soon, then we’re fooling ourselves.” ~Matthew Rouse [22:20]• The good side is that AI creates tons of new jobs and opportunities, ones people actually like better which increases prosperity for everyone. ~Matthew Rouse [24:36]• “The best way to stay relevant is partnering with AI.” ~Matthew Rouse [34:44]• “The amount of power and usage for the amount of output you get from AI drops by almost 90% a year.” ~Matthew Rouse [36:50]People Mentioned and Other Resources:1. Will AI take my Job 2?2. Digital Marketing Masters PodcastKeep In Touch with Matthew Rouse:Website: https://matthewrouse.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/ —Follow Balbert…Facebook: www.facebook.com/realbusinessconnectionsInstagram: www.instagram.com/realbenalbert/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/realbenalbert/Website: https://www.realbusinessconnections.com/ –LST is made possible by www://balbertmarketing.com/


