In this episode of the AI-Branding Podcast, host Mark De Grasse chats with Mike Montague of Avenue 9 about the evolving role of AI in sales. Mike explores the balance between automation and human connection, emphasizing the importance of blending technology with soft skills. He shares insights on how AI can enhance sales productivity without replacing the human touch, highlighting tools that improve customer insights, manage admin tasks, and empower sales teams. Mike also introduces his book, Playful Humans, which advocates for creativity, confidence, and embracing fun in professional life. Listeners will gain valuable strategies for leveraging AI while maintaining authentic client relationships.

TOPICS

• The “Iron Man vs. Terminator” analogy for AI in sales
• How AI enhances—not replaces—human sales strategies
• Tools that improve CRM management, follow-up, and sales coaching
• The importance of soft skills and creativity in the AI-driven workforce
• How Playful Humans encourages professionals to embrace fun and fulfillment
• The impact of AI on job roles, productivity, and future workforce trends

GUEST LINKS

• Mike Montague's Website: avenue9.com
• Mike Montague's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikedmontague
• Playful Humans Book: playfulhumans.com

ADVERTISING LINKS

• Build Your Brand Pillars Course: aibranding.academy/build-your-brand-pillars-course

In this episode of the AI-Branding Podcast, host Mark de Grasse sits down with Adam McChesney, a digital marketing expert who has built multiple seven-figure agencies by mastering personal branding, SEO, and AI-powered strategies. Adam shares his journey from medical device sales to digital marketing success, revealing how he turned his personal brand into a lead-generating machine.

They discuss the critical role of authenticity in branding, why AI should be a tool (not a replacement) for business growth, and how Adam’s innovative use of AI tools like SearchAtlas, ChatGPT, and Opus is helping businesses 5x their content production. Whether you're an agency owner, entrepreneur, or marketing professional, this episode is packed with actionable insights on leveraging personal branding, AI, and digital marketing strategies to dominate your industry.

Tune in to discover how Adam built an ecosystem of raving fans, his 90-day client retention strategy, and why delivering massive value is the key to long-term success.

TOPICS COVERED

• How Adam McChesney transitioned from medical sales to digital marketing success
• The importance of personal branding in a world of AI-generated content
• How Adam built and scaled multiple seven-figure agencies
• AI-powered marketing strategies, including SEO automation & content scaling
• The 90-day sprint strategy for client retention and business growth
• How to use AI tools like SearchAtlas, ChatGPT, and Opus effectively
• Why delivering massive value upfront is the key to converting leads into clients

GUEST LINKS

Adam McChesney: adammcchesney.com

Adam McChesney’s LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adam-mcchesney-b21b1256

ADVERTISING LINKS

Build Your Brand Pillars Course: aibranding.academy/build-your-brand-pillars-course

In this episode, Mark de Grasse sits down with Corey Hiben, a branding expert specializing in healthcare businesses. Corey shares his journey from occupational therapist to agency owner, revealing how branding became the most powerful tool for business growth.

They discuss the true meaning of branding, why consistency in messaging matters, and how businesses can build strong associations that keep customers coming back. Corey also explains the "niche hourglass" strategy, a unique approach to refining your target audience over time. Whether you're in healthcare or another industry, this episode is packed with practical branding insights to help you create a memorable and trustworthy business.

TOPICS

• How Corey transitioned from healthcare to branding and marketing

• The biggest mistakes businesses make when it comes to branding

• Why branding is about associations, not just logos and colors

• The "niche hourglass" approach to finding and refining your audience

• How to balance authenticity with automation in AI-driven marketing

• Why repetition in branding isn’t boring—it’s essential for business success

GUEST LINKS

• Corey Hiben's Website: coreyhi.com

• Corey Hiben's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hibencorey

ADVERTISING LINKS

Build Your Brand Pillars Course: https://aibranding.academy/build-your-brand-pillars-course/course/