• Inexpensive AI for Sales and Marketing - Katie King
    Jan 2 2024

    This episode provides a comprehensive overview of how AI can transform sales and marketing, offering practical advice for professionals at all levels.

    While Katie shared some really smart stuff, here are 3 of my favorite quotes:

    1. "The only people that have imposter syndrome are people who are competent. Idiots never think they're a fraud." - Katie King discusses the importance of overcoming self-doubt and embracing one's abilities in professional growth.
    2. "AI is changing the game in every industry, and we've got to keep learning. Whether you've just graduated or have been in the field for 30 years, AI is reshaping our understanding and approach." - Katie King highlights the continuous impact of AI on various sectors and the necessity of lifelong learning.
    3. "AI doesn't replace strategy; it complements it. You still need to understand your customer, their challenges, and how your solutions can uniquely address their needs." - Katie King emphasizes the crucial role of strategic thinking in effectively leveraging AI for business success.

    Key Topics and Timestamps:

    - [0:00-1:30] Introduction of Katie King and her new book.
    - [1:30-5:00] Katie's journey from growing up in North London to overcoming imposter syndrome, and advice from her first boss.
    - [5:00-10:00] Insights into AI's role in changing the landscape of various industries and Katie's transition into AI.
    - [10:00-15:00] Discussion on the potential risks and regulations around AI, including generative AI like Bard, DALL-E, and ChatGPT.
    - [15:00-20:00] How Katie stays updated with AI developments and her approach to continuous learning.
    - [20:00-25:00] The affordability of AI for businesses, especially for HR and marketing, and the balance between technology and human interaction.
    - [25:00-30:00] Deep dive into AI-driven personalization in marketing and its impact on customer segmentation and strategy.
    - [30:00-35:00] AI's influence in sales and CRM, and using AI tools like ChatGPT effectively in sales strategies.
    - [35:00-40:00] Closing remarks on embracing AI in various sectors and the importance of having a clear strategy.

    Resources Mentioned:

    - Katie King's book: "AI Strategy for Sales and Marketing"
    - Katie King's website
    - Katie's LinkedIn profile for further thought leadership content.

    Closing Thoughts:

    Katie King emphasizes the need for businesses to embrace AI, not just as a technological tool, but as a strategic component to drive growth and efficiency. Her personal story and professional insights offer valuable lessons in adapting to and leveraging AI in various business functions.

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    31 mins
  • Calling BS on Busy with Andrew Mellen
    Dec 29 2023

    Introduction:

    In this enlightening episode of Happy AF Show, Phil Gerbyshak sits down with renowned author and efficiency expert, Andrew Mellen, to delve into the themes of his latest book, "Calling Bullshit on Busy." Known for his insightful and practical advice, Mellen shares his unique perspectives on productivity, time management, and the modern myth of being perpetually busy.

    Two quotes worth considering:

    1. Andrew Mellen on Embracing Introversion in a Busy World:
      "As a major introvert, I've learned that success isn't about constantly pushing against your nature, but rather understanding and working with it. Even in our fast-paced, 'always-on' culture, there's immense power in stepping back, reflecting, and choosing engagements that truly matter."
    2. Phil Gerbyshak on the Illusion of Busyness:
      "In our pursuit of success, we often fall into the trap of equating busyness with productivity. But as Andrew brilliantly points out, it's not about how many hours we fill; it's about the impact of what we do in those hours. That's a game-changer in the way we approach our work and life."

    Main Discussion:

    1. The Myth of Busy:
       - Mellen begins by challenging the common notion that being busy equates to being productive. He articulates how this misconception leads to a counterproductive cycle of stress and inefficiency.
       - Phil resonates with this, discussing how in the sales and consultancy field, the 'busy badge' is often mistakenly worn as a mark of success.

    2. Introversion and Interaction:
       - Mellen shares personal anecdotes, revealing his major introverted nature. He discusses the challenges he faced in communicating with others, particularly in unfamiliar situations.
       - He highlights how introverts can effectively manage their energy and engage in meaningful interactions without feeling overwhelmed.

    3. Asking for Help:
       - A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the discomfort many people feel when asking for help. Mellen provides practical strategies to overcome this barrier.

    4. Efficiency Vs. Effectiveness:
       - Mellen distinguishes between being efficient and being effective. He suggests that prioritizing effectiveness leads to more meaningful productivity.
       - Phil and Mellen engage in a thought-provoking dialogue about how this concept applies in various professional scenarios, including sales and consulting.

    5. Implementing Mellen's Advice:
       - Mellen offers actionable steps from his book that listeners can implement to call out their own 'busy bullshit'.
       - Phil reflects on these strategies, discussing how they can be integrated into daily routines for better personal and professional outcomes.

    Conclusion:

    The episode wraps up with Mellen providing a succinct summary of the key takeaways from his book and the discussion. Phil thanks Andrew Mellen for his valuable insights and shares how the conversation has offered a fresh perspective on managing busyness in a productive and healthy way.

    Get a copy of Andrew's book Calling Bullshit on Busy and learn more from him on his website https://AndrewMellen.com

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    34 mins
  • Everybody Leads: Unpacking the True Essence of Leadership - with Tim Lupinacci
    Dec 28 2023

    Hey there, amazing people! Welcome back to another electrifying episode of the Sales Leadership Show. I'm your host, Phil Gerbyshak, and boy, do we have a treat for you!

    Special Guest Alert!
    We're joined by none other than Tim Lupinacci, the CEO and Chair at Baker Donelson, a powerhouse in the legal industry. Tim is not just a leader in title; he's a leader in action, and he's here to share some invaluable insights that you won't want to miss!

    Today's Topic: "Everybody Leads"
    Leadership isn't just a title; it's an action, a mindset, a responsibility. And guess what? You don't need to be a CEO or a manager to be a leader. That's right! Today, we're diving deep into what leadership truly means and why EVERYONE, regardless of their title, can lead from where they are.

     What We'll Cover:

    •  Defining Leadership: What does leadership really mean? Is it just about being in charge, or is there more to it?
    •  Title-less Leadership: Why you don't need a fancy title to make an impact.
    •  Leading from Where You Are: Practical tips on how you can be a leader in your current role.
    •  The Ripple Effect: How your leadership can influence others and create a positive impact.

    Why You Should Tune In:
    If you've ever felt like you're not a "leader" because you don't have a specific title, this episode is for you. We're breaking down the barriers and debunking the myths surrounding leadership. Whether you're in sales, consulting, or any other field, you have the power to lead and make a difference. So let's unlock that potential together!

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    33 mins
  • Mastering Digital Transformation with Michael Lenox
    Dec 19 2023

    In a compelling conversation between Michael Lenox, author of "Mastering Digital Transformation," and Phil Gerbyshak, Lenox shares insights on how evolving technologies in AI and digital technology broadly are reshaping the business landscape.

    1. Understanding Digital Transformation Beyond IT

    Lenox emphasizes that digital transformation is not just an IT overhaul but a fundamental change in creating and capturing customer value. "It's about changing the basis of competition, creating new business models," Lenox says, highlighting the strategic aspect of digital transformation.

    2. The Seminal Moment of AI: ChatGPT's Influence

    Reflecting on AI's journey, Lenox notes, "ChatGPT 3.5 was a seminal moment, awakening people to AI's possibilities." He explains how the convergence of increased processing power and vast data availability has brought AI to its current prominence.

    3. The Network Effect in Platform Economics

    Discussing platforms like Uber and Airbnb, Lenox touches on the concept of network externalities, where the value of a product or service increases with more users. He warns of the ensuing winner-takes-all markets, stressing the importance of understanding this dynamic for businesses.

    4. Data Privacy and the Ethical Challenges of Digital Age

    Lenox and Gerbyshak delve into the ethical quandaries of the digital age, especially around data privacy and AI. Lenox urges companies to be intentional about their digital strategies and align them with organizational values.

    5. Transformative Potential of Digital Technologies

    Despite the challenges, Lenox remains optimistic about digital technologies' potential to revolutionize sectors like healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. He cites examples like AI in predictive healthcare and distributed electrical grids.

    6. Starting Digital Transformation: Strategy Before Infrastructure

    For companies embarking on digital transformation, Lenox advises starting with strategy rather than infrastructure. "Think about where you're pointing the ship," he asserts, highlighting the importance of aligning digital initiatives with broader strategic goals.

    Final Thoughts: The Strategy-Centric Approach

    Lenox's conversation with Gerbyshak underscores the need for a strategic approach to digital transformation. By understanding the deeper implications of digital technologies and aligning them with core business strategies, companies can navigate the digital age more effectively.

    Learn More from Michael Lenox

    For further insights, Lenox invites readers to explore his book and his website, MichaelLenox.com, emphasizing the importance of strategic thinking in mastering digital transformation.

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    33 mins
  • Creating a Category Defining Business Brand with Christopher Lochhead
    Dec 12 2023

    ️ Get Ready to Ignite Your Business Strategy! ️

    Hey, friends and fellow category designers! Are you ready to craft a business and brand that doesn't just play the game but changes it entirely? 

    This week on the podcast, we have an electric episode you won't want to miss! I, Phil, am beyond thrilled to share the virtual stage with the legendary Christopher Lochhead, the godfather of Category Design, on a brain-tingling deep dive into the art and science of creating a category-leading business and brand.

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    33 mins
  • Bouncing Back from Burnout with Cait Donovan
    Dec 5 2023
    • Guest: Cait Donovan, burnout expert and author of "The Bounce Backability Factor"


    Key Topics & Discussion Points:

    1. Gratitude Journal: A Misguided Advice for Burnout Recovery
      • Cait Donovan explains that while gratitude journals are beneficial in general, they are not effective for individuals suffering from burnout due to their inability to evoke a genuine emotional response during such times.
      • Pull Quote: "When you're burnt out, engendering feelings of gratitude is really, really hard...it feels like a little paternalistic, a slap in the face."
    2. Cait’s Personal Journey with Burnout
      • Cait shares her own experience with burnout as a female entrepreneur and how existing research didn’t cater to her situation.
      • Pull Quote: "I burnt out as a female entrepreneur in a job that I loved, and the research did not speak to me."
    3. The Role of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Burnout
      • She delves into how early childhood trauma and adverse experiences can contribute to burnout later in life.
      • Pull Quote: "There were huge empty holes of things in my life that I wasn't really paying attention to... early childhood trauma could lead to burnout later."
    4. The Importance of One Supportive Adult
      • Cait highlights the impact of having at least one adult who believes in you during childhood and how it can mitigate the effects of trauma.
      • Pull Quote: "Having one adult who consistently shows up for you...is enough to buffer out a pretty extreme traumatic experience."
    5. The Impact of Returning to the Office on Burnout
      • Discussion on how the transition back to office work post-COVID-19 is contributing to increased burnout levels.
      • Pull Quote: "We are changing the rules of engagement halfway through the game...it's just upsetting."
    6. Differentiating Burnout from Stress
      • Cait distinguishes between stress and burnout, emphasizing the inability of those suffering from burnout to feel refreshed even after a break.
      • Pull Quote: "If you are burnt out, you will take a 10-day vacation and not be refreshed and ready to go when you come back."
    7. Resentment Journal: An Unconventional Approach
      • Cait recommends maintaining a resentment journal as a starting point for addressing burnout, which helps identify where personal boundaries are being crossed.
      • Pull Quote: "Use a resentment journal when burnt out... it shows every single place where our boundaries are being crossed."
    8. Simple Self-Care Practices
      • Emphasizes basic self-care like responding to natural body signals, such as drinking water when thirsty or resting when tired.
      • Pull Quote: "Practice foundational self-care... start paying attention to how often you're overriding your signal that it's time to go to the bathroom."
    9. Book and Podcast Recommendations
      • "The Bounce Backability Factor" by Cait Donovan
      • "Fried: The Burnout Podcast"
      • Cait Donovan's website, full of helpful insights to help you deal with burnout!

    Conclusion:

    • Cait’s insights provide a deeper understanding of burnout and practical steps for recovery.
    • Phil Gerbyshak wraps up the episode by appreciating Cait's expertise and recommending her book and podcast for further exploration into managing burnout.



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    35 mins
  • How to Harness the Power of Your Brand's Voice - with Robert Rose
    Nov 29 2023

    Episode Summary:

    Phil Gerbyshak sits down with Robert Rose, a notable figure in content marketing, to discuss the intricacies of building and utilizing a brand's voice. Rose shares insights from his grandfather, aligning personal anecdotes with professional wisdom, and delves into the evolution of content marketing in the age of AI.

    Key Points Discussed:

    • Grandfather's Advice: Rose credits his grandfather for impactful life advice, particularly "negotiate for what you want, not what you think you can get."
    • Career Transition: From aspiring rockstar to a content marketing strategist, Rose discusses how his career shift retained the core essence of his passions.
    • Content and AI: The balance between AI's capabilities and the uniqueness of human creativity in content creation.
    • Defining Brand Voice: Importance of a cohesive, well-defined brand voice across various company departments.
    • Content Strategy and Coordination: Emphasizing the need for a coordinated approach in content creation and marketing efforts.
    • Audience Engagement: Strategies to maintain audience attention and effectively guide them through a content journey.
    • Future of Marketing: The evolving landscape of marketing technology and the growing importance of specialized skills in the field.

    Notable Quotes:

    • "Negotiate for what you want, not what you think you can get."
    • "What experience have you created for somebody today?"
    • "The only way to differentiate against AI is to become more of who you are today."
    • "90% of a great content strategy has nothing to do with the content you create but how you coordinate your communication."

    Conclusion:

    Robert Rose emphasizes the significance of a well-defined brand voice and the critical role of content in shaping customer experiences. He advocates for specialized expertise in marketing and the necessity of adapting to evolving technologies while maintaining the human element in content creation.

    Additional Resources:

    • Robert Rose's Book: "Content Marketing Strategy: How to Harness the Power of Your Brand's Voice" - koganpage.com (Use code: KOGENPAGE20 for a discount)
    • Content Advisory: contentadvisory.net
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    36 mins
  • Become a Trusted Learning Advisor with Dr. Keith Keating
    Nov 21 2023

    Welcome to our latest podcast episode where we dive into the evolving world of Learning & Development (L&D) with Dr. Keith Keating, the author of the recently released "Trusted Learning Adviser" book.

    Key Points Discussed:

    1. Dr. Keith Keating's Educational Journey:
      • Inspired by his boss to pursue a doctorate at the University of Pennsylvania.
      • Recognized the importance of continuous learning, even as an L&D professional.
    2. Role of Continuous Learning:
      • Dr. Keating emphasizes the necessity of lifelong learning.
      • Shares his experiences in various learning avenues, from writing a book to teaching at the University of Pennsylvania.
    3. Transition from Order Taker to Trusted Advisor:
      • Defines 'Order Taker' in the L&D context.
      • Discusses the historical perspective and evolution of L&D roles.
      • Emphasizes the need for L&D professionals to be proactive and strategic.
    4. Artificial Intelligence in L&D:
      • Dr. Keating's stance on AI: a critical tool for future success.
      • Explains how AI can augment L&D processes and enhance efficiency.
      • Warns against the fear of AI, urging professionals to embrace and utilize it.
    5. The Concept of a Trusted Learning Adviser:
      • Describes a trusted adviser as a strategic, embedded, and respected business partner.
      • Stresses the importance of aligning L&D goals with learner needs.
    6. Five Pillars of Trust for a Trusted Learning Adviser:
      • Dr. Keating talks about 'Credibility' as a key pillar.
      • Discusses the inclusive nature of the L&D industry and the need for genuine competence.
    7. Credibility in Practice:
      • Personal insights on maintaining credibility through recent and relevant experience.
      • The difference between being a 'thought leader' and an active practitioner.
    8. Reputational Impact in L&D:
      • The importance of positive learning experiences and their long-term effects.
      • Shares insights from his research on CFOs' perceptions of L&D.
    9. Engaging with CFOs as Stakeholders:
      • Advises building relationships with CFOs and understanding their perspectives.
      • Highlights the need for qualitative data in addition to ROI metrics.
    10. Developing a Personal Brand in L&D:
      • Suggestions for building a strong personal brand.
      • Importance of adopting a new mindset and aligning with stakeholder language.
    11. Final Insights:
      • Dr. Keating stresses the importance of research and making stakeholders the heroes of their stories.
      • Encourages using external data and perspectives to strengthen business cases.

    Conclusion:

    Dr. Keith Keating provides valuable insights into the transformation of the L&D field, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, embracing AI, and building credibility. His book, "Trusted Learning Adviser," offers further tools and techniques for professionals in the field.

    Valuable Links:

    • Get a copy of Keith's book The Trusted Learning Advisor.
    • Learn more about Dr. Keating and his book, visit: KeithKeating.com


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    28 mins