Shows
Enterprising MindsEp 57: HR and AI - Feeding the Machine Without Starving EthicsHow do you balance innovation and caution in the age of enterprise AI? In this lively and thought-provoking episode of Enterprising Minds, hosts Dave Dougherty, Ruthi Corcoran, and Alex Pokorny dive into the complexities of AI in HR—from data privacy dilemmas to tool adoption challenges. Should you feed proprietary or personal data into AI tools? What happens when employees bypass official channels? And how do performance reviews and enterprise culture evolve with AI assistance? Tune in to hear debates, frustrations, and surprising insights that will resonate with every professional navigating AI in the workplace.Subscribe to En...2025-07-2245 minEnterprising MindsEp 56: Workflows vs Agentic AI – What's the Real Gap?In this episode of Enterprise Minds, hosts Dave Dougherty, Alex Pokorny, and Ruthi Corcoran explore the evolving discussion around agentic AI and its current state. They dissect the difference between longstanding automated workflows and the emerging (yet often overstated) promise of agentic AI—technology that can reason, act, and learn independently. Through personal anecdotes, analogies, and real-world examples, they explore the current capabilities and limitations of AI tools, highlighting the critical gap between today’s practical tools and tomorrow’s intelligent agents. Packed with insights, humor (including Darth Vader ducks), and grounded analysis, this episode is a must for tech p...2025-07-0847 minEnterprising MindsEp 55: Harnessing AI Tools - Insights, Use Cases, and Future ProspectsIn this episode of the Enterprising Minds podcast, co-hosts Ruthi Corcoran and Alex Pokorny dive deep into the evolving world of AI tools. From personal applications, such as sunscreen research and interior design experiments, to professional use cases that revolutionize marketing workflows, they explore the real-world implications of integrating AI into daily life. Alex shares how he builds automated systems using ChatGPT, Google Ads Scripts, and Screaming Frog, while Ruthi reflects on prompt engineering and the limitations of current AI models. Together, they discuss the pitfalls of modern search engines, the erosion of trust in e-commerce due to AI-generated...2025-06-2438 minEnterprising MindsEp 54: AI's Tipping Point: Exploring Critical MassWelcome to the latest episode of Enterprising Minds! In this episode, the entire crew dives deep into the current state of AI adoption and its impact on work and productivity. Alex kicks things off by asking whether we're near the 'critical mass' point where the widespread access to AI tools like ChatGPT is leading to meaningful output. The team explores their experiences with AI, discussing the shift from staying current with developments to effectively applying the tools in their daily lives. Topics include the impact of AI on productivity, the shift in use cases from idea generation to personal...2025-06-1041 minEnterprising MindsEp 53: AI Playground - Discovering Creative and Strategic UsesIn Episode 53 of Enterprising Minds, hosts Dave Dougherty and Alex Pokorny take us into the AI Playground — a space where creativity meets strategy. From text-based RPGs and WWII battle simulations to public speaking and marketing strategy, this episode dives into surprising, fun, and impactful ways AI is being used beyond the typical productivity narratives. Hear personal stories, experiments, and expert insights on how AI can augment creativity, leadership, and business innovation. Whether you're just starting your AI journey or looking to deepen your engagement, this episode offers inspiration and practical examples in equal measure.Subscribe to Enterprising Mi...2025-05-2741 minEnterprising MindsEp 52: Navigating the World of Freelancing - Business Development and Pricing StrategiesIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, Dave, Alex, and Ruthi dive deep into the realities of freelancing—from initial struggles and business development to pricing strategies and the art of building lasting client relationships. Alex shares hard-earned lessons from years in digital marketing and SEO freelancing, revealing how he navigated subcontracting, agency collaborations, and the elusive retainer model. Ruthi brings an outside perspective, raising key questions about overhead, pricing psychology, and the emerging impact of AI on freelance work. Whether you're starting out or looking to grow your freelance business, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to...2025-05-1333 minEnterprising MindsEp 51: Corporate Project Survival Guide Strategy Relationships and ResilienceIn Episode 51 of Enterprise Minds, Dave Dougherty, Alex Pokorny, and Ruthi Corcoran dive deep into what it really takes to navigate and complete corporate projects successfully. From building smart alliances to managing egos and creating compelling visions, they offer tactical strategies for surviving and thriving in complex corporate environments. Whether you're spearheading a small initiative or leading a large enterprise project, this conversation offers essential advice on making real progress.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast player. Subscribe to the Pathways Newsletter where we’re exploring AI, marketing, and ma...2025-04-2944 minEnterprising MindsEp 50: Navigating the World of Freelancing - Essential Tips and AdviceWelcome to our milestone 50th episode! In this special episode, we delve into the world of freelancing, inspired by a listener's request. Join hosts Alex, Ruthi, and Dave as they share their personal experiences and expertise in freelancing, from the basics of setting up an LLC, managing finances, and understanding insurance, to practical advice on finding clients and projects. Whether you're considering freelancing or looking to improve your freelance business, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable tips to help you succeed. Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide to starting and thriving in the freelancing industry!2025-04-1533 minEnterprising MindsEp 49: The Interplay of AI, Personalization, and Human Expertise in BusinessIn Episode 49 of Enterprise Lines, we explore the complex and often misunderstood balance between AI-driven automation and the irreplaceable value of human expertise in today’s business landscape. As AI tools become more sophisticated, businesses face new challenges in delivering truly personalized experiences, especially in the world of B2B commerce.The conversation begins with reflections on upcoming speaking engagements before diving into a candid discussion about AI’s current limitations. Alex shares how AI often struggles to provide meaningful context—like understanding personal budgets or intent—and how human interactions still outperform machines in these nuanced scenario...2025-04-0144 minEnterprising MindsEp 48 - Onboarding in 2025: Real Talk About Remote Work ChallengesIn Episode 48 of Enterprising Minds, we tackle a pressing workplace challenge: effectively onboarding and engaging entry-level employees in an increasingly remote corporate environment. As we approach our 50th episode milestone, we share insights and tips in a coffee talk-style discussion featuring hosts Ruthi Corcoran, Alex Pokorny, and Dave Dougherty. Key topics include the shift toward remote work since 2020, strategies for fostering a welcoming culture, and practical advice for new hires and managers. Join us as we explore ways to build connections, handle communication, and set new employees up for success in today's dynamic work landscapes.S...2025-03-2142 minEnterprising MindsEp 47 - AI vs. Search Engines: Who Wins the Battle for Information?In this episode of Enterprise Mind, Alex, Dave, and Ruthie dive deep into the evolving landscape of search engines, AI tools, and SEO strategies. They explore the claim that AI search will reduce traditional search engine volume by 25% by 2026, discussing whether AI-powered tools will surpass Google in providing personalized, useful results. The conversation covers the growing challenge of findability, the impact of data privacy laws on search accuracy, and the limitations of keyword-based queries. They also discuss how AI could fill the missing gaps in information while highlighting concerns around AI trustworthiness and hallucinations. For small business owners, the...2025-02-2545 minEnterprising MindsEp 46 - The Future of Work: AI’s Impact on Jobs, Marketing, and Business StrategyHappy New Year! In this episode of Enterprising Minds, hosts Dave Dougherty, Ruthi Corcoran, and Alex Pokorny dive into AI’s evolving role in digital marketing and its ripple effects on job roles. They explore AI-driven automation, the rise of generalist marketers, the impact of AI on corporate versus small business strategies, and how AI is changing content creation, research, and campaign execution. The discussion also covers ethical considerations, AI’s effect on job seekers, and how businesses must adapt to AI-powered digital landscapes. Tune in to gain insight into how AI is reshaping marketing, job roles, and business oper...2025-02-0547 minEnterprising MindsEp 45 - From Music to Marketing: The Power of Acknowledging InfluencesIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, hosts Alex and Dave delve into a reflective discussion on the influences that have shaped their thoughts and strategies in business and marketing. Drawing from his past in the music and guitar world, Dave discusses the idea of openly acknowledging one's influences—a practice he wishes marketers and business professionals would adopt more readily. Alex shares his experiences and challenges in finding useful business literature and the importance of broad-based concepts versus autobiographical accounts. They also discuss influential works and personalities, such as Simon Sinek, Phil Knight, and Ray Dalio, among oth...2024-12-1035 minEnterprising MindsEp 44 - The Evolution of Digital Strategy: Then and NowIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, join Dave and Alex as they explore the evolution of digital strategies over the last 15 years. They delve into the significant shifts in email marketing, the emergence of specialized marketing roles, and the balance between advanced tools and user-friendly systems. The discussion highlights the transition from traditional advertising to intricate digital campaigns, the influence of platform changes on marketing strategies, and the complexities introduced by legal regulations. Ruthi shares insights on the convergence of online and offline marketing, the importance of real-time marketing, and how disruptive technologies like Uber and Airbnb a...2024-11-2646 minEnterprising MindsEp 43 - Is Freelancing Worth It in 2025? The AI Impact on Your Career OptionsIn the latest episode of Enterprising Minds, Dave and Alex discuss the potential and challenges of going freelance in the digital marketing landscape with a focus on SEO and the impact of AI. They explore the benefits and pitfalls of becoming a freelancer in late 2024 to early 2025, how AI is reshaping SEO and content creation, and the nuances of sustaining a freelance career amidst technological advancements. The conversation also delves into the evolving importance of in-person networking and traditional marketing methods in an increasingly digital world. Join them as they provide insights and advice for navigating the uncertain yet...2024-11-1234 minEnterprising MindsEp 42 - AI Agents and Gaming: The Next Level of Immersive ExperiencesIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, Alex Pokorny, Ruth Corcoran, and Dave Dougherty dive deep into opportunities LLMs and AI provide to the gaming and business landscapes. They explore how the accelerating AI development could bring NPCs to life with dynamic dialogues and intricate storylines. Ruth dives into the art of world-building and rule-based creativity in games like Magic the Gathering, Witcher, and Skyrim, and discusses AI's impact on narrative-driven games. Learn about the new AI agent technologies from HubSpot and Salesforce that could reshape business practices. From gaming parallelism to future tech implications, join us for an engaging...2024-10-2927 minEnterprising MindsEp 41 - Crisis, Commerce, and Creativity: Business Scenario RundownWelcome to the latest episode of Enterprising Minds! Join our hosts for a dynamic rapid-fire episode where they tackle a variety of business challenges. From helping a traditional retail store transition to online sales, responding to a luxury hotel chain's reputation crisis, to finding strategies for an e-commerce fashion retailer facing tough competition, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Tune in for insights, guerrilla marketing tips, and more to inspire your entrepreneurial journey.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast player. Subscribe to the Pathways Newsletter where we’re ex...2024-10-1545 minEnterprising MindsEp 40 - Work From Home and Company CultureIn this episode of Enterprise of Minds, Alex, Ruthie, and Dave explore the future of work, focusing on recent news about Amazon's decision to end remote and hybrid work for its corporate employees. The discussion covers the productivity impacts of remote vs. in-office work, the cultural dynamics of communication and collaboration, and personal experiences with both modes of work. The team debates the benefits and drawbacks of hybrid work, including considerations for employee well-being, project management, and the evolving needs of modern workforces.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast player. 2024-10-0138 minEnterprising MindsEp 39 - What Works? Revisiting Marketing Revisiting Timing and TargetingIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, Alex and Dave explore the intricacies of modern marketing strategies. We begin with Alex's surprising example of an effective email campaign from Valvoline and why it works so well. We then broadened the discussion to Dave's question on launching a new business today versus when they started their careers. We delve into SEO, paid search, and display ads, and examine how different marketing tactics like customer service insights, social media, and email can play pivotal roles. We also touch on the challenges and benefits of automation in small and large organizations, leveraging AI...2024-08-2751 minEnterprising MindsEp 38 - AI Fails and Evaluating AI Tools: InsightsIn the latest episode of Enterprising Minds, hosts Alex Pokorny and Dave Dougherty delve into an in-depth discussion about various AI tools and their effectiveness. Alex shares his recent experiment where he tested 30 data points using different AI models, highlighting the challenges and limitations he faced. The conversation touches on the issues of prompt engineering, data accuracy, and the practical applications of AI in both small businesses and enterprise settings. They also share personal experiences and tips on maximizing the efficiency of AI tools while addressing the current shortcomings. Tune in for a comprehensive analysis of AI c...2024-08-1339 minEnterprising MindsEp 37 - Exploring OpenAI's Search GPT and Zero-Click Content StrategiesJoin Dave Dougherty and Ruthi Corcoran in Episode 37 of Enterprise Minds as they explore the latest trends in AI and digital marketing. From a light-hearted discussion on pastry preferences to a deep dive into OpenAI's SearchGPT, the duo covers topics ranging from user trust to content creation strategies. Reflecting on Rand Fishkin's insights on evolving content strategies addressing the relevance of zero-click content, they analyze the role of AI in shaping the future of content promotion. Don't miss this engaging conversation on the intersection of technology and marketing. Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or y...2024-07-3041 minEnterprising MindsEp 36 - Adapting to Change: Digital Marketing's Rapid Evolution and Crappy CTAsJoin Dave Dougherty and Alex Pokorny in Episode 36 of Enterprising Minds as they discuss the major changes that have shaped the digital marketing industry in recent years. They cover the evolution of social media algorithms, the transition to Google Analytics 4, the impact of AI on marketing practices, and the latest Google search changes. Plus, they provide practical tips for improving CTAs and share their thoughts on the future of AI in marketing.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast player. Subscribe to the Pathways Newsletter where we’re exploring AI, ma...2024-07-1249 minEnterprising MindsEp 35 - Behind the Scenes Part 3: Editing to AI: The Secrets of Our Podcast Post-Production ProcessIn the final behind-the-scenes episode, Dave Dougherty unveils the post-production secrets that transform Enterprising Minds from good to exceptional. This episode highlights the innovative use of AI for content repurposing and promotion, alongside strategies for efficient content management and social media optimization. Featuring tools like Canva for design and Opus clip for video snippets, it offers a treasure trove of insights for content creators and fans alike. Discover the role of technology in enhancing episodes and engaging audiences more effectively in this essential content creation guide.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite...2024-07-0513 minEnterprising MindsEp 34 - Mastering Audience Targeting: Insights & StrategiesWelcome to the latest episode of Enterprising Minds! In this episode, we dive deep into audience targeting—defining audiences, gaining insights, and effectively targeting them. Join the discussion as we explore the evolution of marketing, the impact of AI, and practical strategies for both B2B and B2C sectors. From analyzing keyword data to developing personas and using tools like SparkToro, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to improve their audience targeting and marketing effectiveness. Don't miss out on these expert tips and key takeaways!Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, Yo...2024-06-2141 minEnterprising MindsEpisode 33 - Behind the Scenes Part 2 - Video Editing and TranscriptionIn this second episode of the behind-the-scenes series, Dave explores the processes involved in video editing and transcription for the Enterprising Minds podcast and video episodes. He discusses the challenges of content creation while balancing day jobs and family life, emphasizing the tools and software that make their production process efficient and affordable. Dave demonstrates the use of Final Cut Pro for video editing and introduces Descript for transcription and video editing, highlighting its importance in creating accessible and high-quality content. The episode covers practical aspects of video production, including aligning audio tracks, color balancing, an...2024-06-0725 minEnterprising MindsEp 32 - AI Developments and Future Implications: Google I/O, ChatGPT 4o, and MoreIn this episode, we dive into the latest advancements in artificial intelligence from industry leaders like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. Join hosts Dave Dougherty, Ruthi Corcoran, and Alex Pokorny as they explore the exciting updates and their implications for digital marketing, workplace productivity, and everyday life. We discuss OpenAI’s new features, including real-time voice interaction and mobile integration, as well as highlights from Google IO 2023, focusing on AI’s ability to understand and assist in real-world applications. The conversation covers the impact of AI on SEO and digital marketing strategies, Microsoft's Copilot capabilities and its role in enhancing work...2024-05-2456 minEnterprising MindsEp 31 - Navigating Change Without Burning Out: Strategies and InsightsIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, Alex, Ruthi, and Dave tackle the complexities of change management and the critical challenge of avoiding burnout. They delve into effective strategies for maintaining creativity and motivation during significant changes and offer personal anecdotes alongside expert advice on managing both personal and team burnout. Learn how to recognize the signs of burnout, engage in activities that restore joy, and the profound impact that daily routines can have on your overall well-being.They also discuss practical tips like adjusting caffeine intake, the benefits of taking regular walks, and the psychological e...2024-05-1045 minEnterprising MindsEp 30 - AI, Leadership, and the Future of Team ManagementIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, the conversation delves into the evolving role of leadership in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). The discussion is sparked by insights from a Harvard Business Review article titled Leading in the Flow from the January-February 2024 edition, proposing five core energies leaders can tap into: purpose, wisdom, growth, love, and self-realization. Alex, Ruthi, and Dave explore the balance between technical skills and soft skills in management, the impact of AI on work dynamics, the shift in communication styles across generations, and the importance of soft skills in an AI-influenced work environment. T...2024-04-2625 minEnterprising MindsEp 29 - Embracing AI in the Workplace: Challenges and OpportunitiesIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, Alex, Ruthi, and Dave discuss the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing jobs, inspired by conversations and a notable quote from Sam Altman suggesting that advanced AI could handle 95% of tasks currently done by marketers, consultancies, and creatives. The discussion covers the implications of this shift, how jobs in marketing might evolve rather than disappear, and how businesses across various sizes might be affected differently. The episode touches on the transition period towards using AI more extensively, the potential for AI to improve efficiency and creativity in work tasks, a...2024-04-1242 minEnterprising MindsEp 28 - Behind the Scenes - Part 1: Microphones, Recording, and Audio EditingDiscover the secrets behind crafting the Enterprising Minds podcast in this exclusive behind-the-scenes tour! Get insights into our recording setup featuring top-notch gear like the Logitech 4K webcam, Shure MV7 microphone, and custom LED lighting. Learn valuable recording techniques to maintain pristine sound quality and the importance of separating work and personal equipment. Dive into post-production with software like Apple Logic and Final Cut for editing, and gain expert tips on audio normalization, EQ adjustments, and the logic behind separating audio and video editing. Stay tuned for more installments focusing on different aspects of podcast pr...2024-03-2920 minEnterprising MindsEp 27 - 7 Essential Steps to Successful SEO Content Migration | Expert InsightsIn this episode, Dave delves into the critical process of SEO content migrations, outlined through a detailed seven-step plan. This comprehensive guide is designed for individuals and organizations looking to effectively migrate their digital content without compromising site performance. The steps range from pre-work and discovery, technical reviews, and content analysis, to post-launch activities and continuous improvement, emphasizing the importance of meticulous planning, stakeholder engagement, and strategic execution to ensure successful content migration and SEO optimization.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast player. Subscribe to the Pathways Newsletter where...2024-03-1542 minEnterprising MindsEP 26 - Breaking Down Sora by OpenAI: The Next Leap in AI Video GenerationIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, Dave Dougherty and Ruthi Corcoran delve into the groundbreaking release of OpenAI's Sora, a text-to-video generator likened to the DALL·E for video. They explore its capabilities, the realistic quality of the AI-generated videos, and its potential implications for content creation, marketing, advertising, and the gaming industry. The discussion also touches on the transformative effects of AI on the creative process, copyright concerns, and the evolving landscape of digital content consumption. This episode provides a deep dive into how Sora and similar technologies are reshaping our interaction with the dig...2024-03-0135 minEnterprising MindsEp 25 - Navigating New Norms: Workplace Fashion Post-PandemicThis episode delves into how the post-COVID environment has influenced workplace attire and personal style, alongside the broader implications of these shifts on professionalism and personal branding. Hosts, Dave Dougherty, Alex Pokorny, and Ruthi Corcoran, share insights on adapting to changing dress codes, the importance of dressing for confidence, and the role of technology in maintaining professionalism. They also discuss the balance between expressing individuality and adhering to professional expectations, emphasizing the evolving nature of workplace norms and the significance of personal branding in a remote work setting.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or...2024-02-1641 minEnterprising MindsEp 24 - AGI and the Future of Work: Insights and ImplicationsThis episode of Enterprising Minds delves into the complex landscape of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and its impact on job markets and productivity. Hosts Dave Dougherty and Alex Pokorny explore recent developments, such as Deloitte's AI state reports and the Duolingo layoffs, offering a nuanced view of AI's role in content creation and job displacement. They discuss AI's influence on business strategies, the evolving role of AI in writing and editing, and the real-world applications and limitations of current AI technologies. The conversation includes a critical examination of data privacy and business culture in the age of A...2024-02-0247 minEnterprising MindsEp 23 - A Year of Generative AI Technologies & Their ImpactIn this discussion on 'Enterprise of Minds,' Alex and Dave provide insights on the role of generative AI, particularly OpenAI's Chat GPT, in improving their productivity over the past 14 months. They discuss the progress and possibilities of generative AI and introspect its potential future. Topics being discussed range from the implications of deepfake videos to personal experiences with AI tools and their significant impact on various fields including content creation, customer service, gaming, and more. They also anticipate technological advancements that could further revolutionize AI and its applications.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube...2024-01-1950 minEnterprising MindsEp 22 - 2023 Reading Roundup - Impactful Books and Learning InsightsIn this episode of Enterprising Minds, Alex, Ruthi, and Dave share their top book recommendations from 2023 that had a profound impact on their thinking or offered actionable insights. The episode covers a range of topics from the history and potential of AI, effective leadership strategies, and innovative marketing approaches, to balancing work and life. Listen in to discover new reading material and join the team's illuminating discussions on indispensable lessons taken from their favorite reads.Subscribe to Enterprising Minds on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast player. Subscribe to the Pathways Newsletter where we’re...2023-12-1546 min