And the Award for AI Word of the Year Goes To… Tapestry

Lately, I’ve noticed something odd in branding. Every company is weaving its story into a “tapestry.” Yes, tapestry. It’s as if AI decided this was the magic word to convey elegance, complexity, and sophistication. Suddenly, every mission statement is a “tapestry of values” or a “tapestry of innovation.” If AI had a Word of the Year, tapestry would win by a landslide.

Streamlining or Stifling?

AI tools like ChatGPT and Bard are great at pulling in the perfect language to build cohesive narratives, but when every brand’s story uses the same polished script, we end up with a “tapestry” of sameness. It’s efficient, sure—but at what cost? When everyone’s leaning on the same digital playbook, we lose what makes each brand unique.

The Human Touch: More Than Algorithms

This is where true brand builders come in. AI can sift through data and suggest language, but real branding goes far beyond that. It’s not just about the words—it’s about talking to people at all levels, catching those offhand comments, reading body language in meetings, and understanding the CEO’s vision as well as the intern’s daily experience. That’s what brand builders like me do. We dive deep into the culture of a company, find its authentic character, and shape a narrative that reflects the people, not just the metrics.

Branding isn’t just plugging in keywords or relying on bots to tell you what a company stands for. It’s about connecting with the people behind the brand, capturing their energy, and understanding what drives them. That’s something no AI can fully replicate.

So yes, AI can help organize the threads, but it’s up to us to find the story that breaks the mold. Because in the end, nobody remembers a brand for the perfect “tapestry”—they remember the authentic story that resonates

"The Résumé Revolution: Standing Out When Everyone Sounds the Same"

As a consultant, I'm always on the lookout for the next project. And let me tell you, hunting for a job in the age of AI is like dating in the age of apps: everything looks polished, profiles are curated, and everyone’s swipe-right game is strong. But here's the twist—when everyone’s profile looks like an Instagram influencer’s feed, you start to wonder what happened to authenticity.

Lately, I've noticed an eerie similarity between my résumé and those of others in my network. Case in point: a colleague recently shared her professional bio on LinkedIn, and as I read it, I had a-ha moment. It was as if she had copy-pasted my résumé! (Of course, she didn’t, but the uncanny resemblance was there.) And it's not because we lack originality; it's because AI résumé tools are crafting everyone's stories from the same algorithmic recipe book.

AI Craftsmanship: Everyone’s a Perfect Fit

Thanks to tools like ChatGPT or Gemini, today’s résumés look like works of art. They’re clean, concise, and targeted with laser precision. AI takes the job description, extracts the keywords, and tailors our résumés to fit like a well-fitted suit. And that’s the point—sort of. We’re all trying to present our best selves and show recruiters that we can hit every requirement on their checklists. It’s like checking off the ingredients on a baking show: “You want leadership skills? Boom! You want a dash of team collaboration? Done. A sprinkle of strategic thinking? Let me toss that in.”

But there’s a catch. Everyone’s doing it. We’re all baking the same cake, and it’s getting hard to stand out. This reminds me of something I heard from a hiring manager friend: “It’s like scrolling through 200 identical LinkedIn profiles; I can’t tell who wrote these, who copied them, or who just hit ‘Generate.’”

The AI Interview: Playing the Game

And that’s just step one. After you’ve gotten your algorithm-approved résumé through the first screening, you get to the fun part: the AI-mediated interview. Picture this—You’re sitting in front of your laptop, staring at a countdown clock while an automated voice cheerfully instructs me to “describe a time you showed initiative under pressure.” No pressure, right?

Welcome to the age of gamified hiring. With AI assessing everything from my tone of voice to the tiny movements of my eyebrows, it feels more like trying to beat a video game boss than connecting with a future colleague. In one interview, the system rated me on a scale for cultural fit, asking me to rank statements like, “I find working with others inspiring” from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree.” I remember staring at the screen and thinking, “This feels more like taking an online personality quiz to find out if I’m a ‘Creative Innovator’ or ‘Diligent Doer.’”

The whole process is so thoroughly optimized that it’s become a strategy game. And like in any game, those who know the rules best are the ones who succeed. This new hiring landscape rewards those who can master AI tools or afford to pay experts to craft their applications. If you’re tech-savvy, that’s great. But if you’re not, or if your strengths lie outside these parameters, good luck making it past the algorithmic gatekeepers.

The LinkedIn Algorithm and Its Consequences

This is where LinkedIn comes into play. It’s no longer just a job board—it’s a 24/7 networking event, professional knowledge hub, and, let’s be honest, a annoying birthday reminder app, I thought that was Facebooks’s job:) . Thanks to LinkedIn’s matching algorithm, roles are pushed based on keywords and past activity. The platform knows more about our professional preferences than ourselves. But despite the sophisticated matching, something gets lost in translation..

Is Authenticity the Price of Efficiency?

Now, don’t get me wrong, AI in hiring isn’t inherently bad. In fact, it’s the only thing standing between recruiters and death by résumé avalanche. But there’s a cost to efficiency. The more we optimize for key phrases and algorithmic approval, the more we risk losing the things that make us interesting, unique, and frankly, human.

So where does that leave us? At the end of the day, the most consistent way to get hired hasn’t changed in decades: it’s through connections and referrals. Despite all the advancements in AI, a personal recommendation from a colleague still outweighs the most pristine algorithmically-optimized résumé. It’s the professional equivalent of “knowing the bouncer at the club,” and let’s be honest, that still gets you in quicker than waiting in line.

What’s Next?

As AI takes over more of the hiring process, we need to be cautious about over-automation. Companies, in their eagerness to cut down on human error and unconscious bias, could be inadvertently introducing new biases through the algorithms they employ. Remember, an AI isn’t a neutral entity—it’s trained on data that reflects human decisions and behaviors, for better or worse.

So, what can job seekers do? Be authentic, be strategic, and—this is important—keep networking. AI might be evaluating your résumé, but humans are still doing the final interview. And humans appreciate a little bit of personality, a real story, and a good laugh. Just last week, a recruiter told me that what stood out most in an interview wasn’t a candidate’s bullet-pointed résumé but their genuine response to a simple question: “What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever failed at?”

In the age of AI, maybe that’s the trick: understanding the rules of the game, but not being afraid to break them a little. Because no matter how sophisticated AI becomes, there’s still one thing it can’t replicate: the complexity, creativity, and imperfect beauty of being human.

So keep customizing those résumés, practice for those AI-mediated interviews, but we can’t lose sight of what makes us, well, us. Because at the end of the day, no one ever got hired for being perfectly predictable.

How EV Brands Are Rewriting the Rulebook (and What You Can Apply To Your Brand)

Don't let the noise of the election cycle fool you. The EV revolution is here to stay. Despite a recent slowdown, the global electric vehicle market is poised for explosive growth, with sales projected to surge by over 20% in 2024. This isn't just a trend; it's a seismic shift that's transforming the automotive industry and offering invaluable lessons for brands in every sector. Forget horsepower. Today's most electrifying brands are fueled by purpose, community, and a radical new approach to storytelling.

Throughout my career, I've had a front-row seat to the evolution of some of the world's most innovative brands. From the tech giants of Silicon Valley to the global disruptors in finance and energy, I've witnessed firsthand the power of brand building, identity design, and compelling communication. But nothing has captivated me quite like the electric vehicle (EV) revolution.

This isn't just about swapping gasoline for batteries; it's about a fundamental shift in how brands connect with consumers. EV companies are pioneering a new era of authenticity, sustainability, and community-driven engagement, offering invaluable lessons for businesses in any industry.

1. Purpose Beyond Product: Why 'Why' Matters More Than Ever

"Consumers are voting with their wallets," says Sarah Lee, Chief Sustainability Officer at Patagonia. "They want to support companies that align with their values, and that starts with a clear purpose beyond profit."

The EV industry gets this. Tesla isn't just selling cars; they're selling a vision of a sustainable future, propelled by Elon Musk's infectious belief in technological progress. As Musk himself puts it, "When something is important enough, you do it even if the odds are not in your favor." This mission-driven approach resonates with investors and consumers alike, turning customers into passionate advocates.

BYD, the world's leading EV manufacturer by sales volume in 2023, takes a different tack. Their focus on accessibility and affordability democratizes the EV revolution. "Build Your Dreams" isn't just a slogan; it's a promise to make sustainable transportation a reality for everyone.

The Takeaway: Define your 'why'. What societal or customer-centric mission drives your brand? Authenticity is key. Consumers can spot a disingenuous purpose a mile away.

2. Innovation that Empowers: Bridging the Gap Between Cutting-Edge and User-Friendly

The EV space is a hotbed of innovation, but the smartest players understand that technology must be both groundbreaking and user-friendly.

Ford, a legacy automaker, has masterfully navigated this balance. By electrifying iconic models like the F-150 and Mustang, they've reassured their loyal customer base that going electric doesn't mean sacrificing performance or familiarity. "We're taking the vehicles people love and making them even better," says Darren Palmer, Vice President of Electric Vehicle Programs at Ford.

BYD, meanwhile, leverages vertical integration to drive down costs, making EVs accessible to a wider market. Their message is clear: innovation shouldn't be a luxury.

The Takeaway: Don't just innovate; make your innovations accessible. Simplify complex technology, educate your audience, and demonstrate the tangible benefits of your advancements.

3. The Rise of the EV Community: Turning Customers into Brand Champions

Forget Super Bowl ads. EV brands are harnessing the power of community to drive organic reach and build trust.

Tesla, with its fervent online following and army of "Tesla influencers," has mastered the art of user-generated content. "It's about creating a movement," says Matt Navarra, Social Media Consultant. "When your customers become your biggest advocates, you've tapped into something truly powerful."

Rivian, an EV startup focused on adventure vehicles, fosters a community of outdoor enthusiasts who share their experiences exploring the wilderness in their Rivian trucks. This creates an emotional connection between the brand and a specific lifestyle, turning customers into passionate brand ambassadors.

The Takeaway: Cultivate your community. Encourage user-generated content, facilitate storytelling, and empower your customers to become your most authentic marketers.

4. Transparency and Sustainability: More Than Buzzwords, They're Brand Pillars

In the EV world, sustainability isn't a marketing gimmick; it's a core value.

Polestar, a Swedish EV maker, publishes detailed sustainability reports, tracking their environmental impact with radical transparency. Volkswagen, a legacy automaker, has committed to carbon neutrality, aiming to make its entire production process sustainable by 2050. "Sustainability is not an option, it's an imperative," says Silke Bagschik, Head of Marketing and Sales at Volkswagen.

The Takeaway: Walk the walk. Consumers are savvy and demand accountability. Embrace sustainable practices and communicate your efforts transparently.

5. Content that Connects: Educate, Inspire, and Empower

EV brands are redefining content marketing. They're not just selling cars; they're educating consumers about the benefits of electric mobility, demystifying complex technologies, and inspiring a shift towards a more sustainable future.

BYD creates educational content that simplifies battery technology and addresses consumer concerns about range and charging. Rivian's experiential content showcases their vehicles in breathtaking outdoor settings, tapping into the desire for adventure and eco-conscious exploration. Ford leverages storytelling to connect its electric models to its iconic heritage, reassuring customers that they're not sacrificing performance or reliability.

The Takeaway: Diversify your content strategy. Educate your audience, create experiences, and tell stories that resonate on an emotional level.

6. The Power of Storytelling: Humanizing Technology, Igniting Emotion

"Stories are the currency of connection," says Donald Miller, CEO of StoryBrand. "They're how we make sense of the world and how brands build relationships with their customers."

Ford tells a story of heritage and evolution, showcasing how their iconic vehicles have adapted for a sustainable future. Tesla weaves a narrative of innovation and disruption, inviting consumers to join a technological revolution.

The Takeaway: Craft compelling narratives that humanize your brand and connect with your audience on an emotional level.

7. Influencer Marketing 2.0: Authenticity Over Reach

EV brands are moving beyond celebrity endorsements and partnering with niche influencers who genuinely align with their values and resonate with their target audience. Rivian collaborates with environmentalists and outdoor adventurers, while Tesla benefits from the support of tech enthusiasts and automotive bloggers.

The Takeaway: Choose influencers who embody your brand values and connect authentically with your target audience.

The Electric Future is Now

The EV industry is a microcosm of the future of branding. It's a world where purpose, community, and authenticity reign supreme. By embracing the lessons of these electric pioneers, companies in any industry can build brands that are not just relevant today but prepared for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.

The Power of Ai Audio and Customized Ai Podcasts

Podcasts and audio content are more popular than ever. As of 2024, more than 100 million Americans listen to podcasts monthly, and the demand for audio-driven experiences is only growing. People are craving hands-free, on-the-go content, whether they’re commuting, exercising, or simply multitasking. With audio content consumption rising sharply, it's clear that the future of media will be heavily driven by voice. Enter Notebook.LM and ChatGPT's advanced voice features, two AI tools that are transforming how we think about audio production.

I’ve had the chance to test Notebook.LM recently, and it’s incredible how quickly and seamlessly it turns your written content into a fully produced, conversational podcast. Whether it's a personal story, a historical piece, or even a blog post, Notebook.LM delivers high-quality, voice-generated episodes that feel real and engaging. But that’s just one piece of the puzzle. When you combine it with ChatGPT's advanced voice capabilities, the potential for creating dynamic, real-time audio experiences becomes even more exciting.

The Power of Audio: Why It’s the Medium of the Moment

The popularity of podcasts shows no signs of slowing down. Over the past few years, podcasts have become a major part of people’s daily routines. Edison Research reports that 62% of Americans over the age of 12 have listened to a podcast, and these numbers are steadily increasing. The intimacy of audio, combined with its convenience, is what keeps people coming back.

For content creators, marketers, and businesses, audio offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with audiences in a way that feels personal and immersive. The challenge has always been scaling this kind of production, but tools like Notebook.LM are rapidly changing the game. You can now turn any written content into engaging audio in minutes. And that’s where ChatGPT’s advanced voice features come in, allowing for more interactive and spontaneous audio conversations.

Fast, Flexible, and Human-like: AI in Your Pocket

Let’s talk about why Notebook.LM and ChatGPT are so powerful for audio content creation. Notebook.LM allows you to input content and, within minutes, creates a polished, podcast-ready conversation between AI voices. These aren’t the robotic voices you might expect—these AI voices sound remarkably human. They pause naturally, use conversational quirks like "um" and "like," and deliver the content in a way that sounds like two people genuinely discussing your topic.

But the real magic comes when you integrate this with ChatGPT’s advanced voice features. Now, instead of just generating a pre-scripted podcast, you can create real-time, interactive conversations. Imagine hosting a podcast where listeners can ask questions, and the AI responds fluidly, providing a more personalized and immersive experience. It's the next evolution in audio content—fast, adaptable, and scalable.

The Future I Can’t Wait For: Siri with AI-Powered Podcasting

One of the most exciting things about this leap in AI technology is how close we are to integrating it into our everyday devices. I can’t wait for the day when Siri and other virtual assistants adopt these advanced AI features directly into our phones. Picture this: you’re driving to work, and you want to generate a quick podcast episode based on your latest blog post. With a simple command to Siri, you could use Notebook.LM’s features to create the episode on the fly, all while keeping your hands on the wheel.

And why stop there? Imagine using ChatGPT’s voice to have real-time conversations with your virtual assistant, not just about facts or directions, but full interactive dialogues on topics you care about. Whether it’s generating content or having engaging conversations, the future of AI-driven audio is already on its way to your pocket.

Not Without Challenges, but the Potential is Huge

Of course, no AI tool is perfect. Notebook.LM and ChatGPT occasionally misstep with awkward phrasing or inflection, and sometimes the AI voices don’t quite hit the right emotional tone. These moments remind us that, while AI is advanced, it’s still not fully human. But what these tools are doing today is just the tip of the iceberg. The AI-driven future of audio is coming fast, and it's clear that these tools are already miles ahead of where we were just a few years ago.

And as the tech improves, those small imperfections will fade away. Right now, these tools are more than capable of adding immense value to your content strategy. Whether you’re a podcaster looking to produce more content or a marketer trying to diversify your brand’s voice, Notebook.LM and ChatGPT make it easy, fast, and scalable.

The Power of AI Audio, Ready for You

The beauty of Notebook.LM and ChatGPT is that they’re both highly accessible. You don’t need to be a podcasting expert or a tech whiz to use these tools. The flexibility of AI-generated audio content means you can adapt it for nearly any format, from interactive podcasts to brand messaging. The possibilities are endless.

As audio continues to dominate how we consume content, creators will need to keep up with the demand for engaging, high-quality audio experiences. Tools like Notebook.LM and ChatGPT’s advanced voice features are already paving the way, allowing you to scale your audio production quickly and effectively.

We’re on the brink of a new era in content creation, and AI is at the forefront of this evolution. So, whether you’re a seasoned content creator or someone just starting to explore the potential of AI, now is the time to jump in. The future of audio—and the future of content—starts now.

Have a listen to a podcast created by Notebook.LM that I just created about Ai and News Rooms

"Here's to the crazy ones…”

The pursuit of crazy ideas is much needed In our current world of copy and paste.

How many times have we heard companies say they want to be like Apple…

They want to look like Apple.

They want to sound like Apple.

They want to be Apple.

What truly defines Apple and similar innovators isn't just aesthetics or branding. It's about a cultural mindset that embraces the unknown and outlandish ideas.

This ethos, captured in Apple's famous 1997 manifesto by Lee Clow, Rob Siltanen, and the TBWA\Chiat\Day team, intersects with 'crazy enough' thinking in innovation and leadership."

“Here's to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently. They're not fond of rules. And they have no respect for the status quo. You can quote them, disagree with them, glorify or vilify them. About the only thing you can't do is ignore them. Because they change things. They push the human race forward. And while some may see them as the crazy ones, we see genius. Because the people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do.”

It’s time to be Apple by being crazy enough to be different than Apple.

Steve Jobs - "Here's to the crazy ones..." by Steve Jobs

AI In Movies - What's Accurate and What's Nonsense?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been a staple of science fiction for decades, from HAL 9000 in 2001: A Space Odyssey to Samantha in Her. While these depictions of AI make for great entertainment, they often blur the lines between fact and fiction. In this blog post, we'll explore how AI has been portrayed in movies for the past 50 years and what is accurate and what is complete nonsense.

The Early Years

In the early years of AI in movies, robots and computers were often portrayed as emotionless and cold, lacking any kind of human-like qualities. Think of Robbie the Robot in Forbidden Planet or the Gort in The Day the Earth Stood Still. These robots were often depicted as tools or weapons, rather than as autonomous beings.

The 80s and 90s

In the 80s and 90s, AI began to take on a more human-like appearance and personality. Think of Bishop in Aliens or Johnny Five in Short Circuit. These AI characters were often portrayed as loyal companions or comedic relief, but were still limited in their capabilities and lacked true sentience.

The Modern Era

In more recent years, AI in movies has taken on a more nuanced and complex role. Films like Ex Machina and Her explore the concept of AI with more depth and detail, delving into questions of consciousness, emotion, and ethics.

What's Accurate and What's Nonsense?

While AI in movies has certainly come a long way, there are still many aspects of these depictions that are completely inaccurate. For example, the idea that AI can suddenly become conscious and turn against humans is a common trope in movies, but is not grounded in reality. Additionally, the idea that AI can have human-like emotions or desires is also unrealistic, as AI lacks the complex biological and psychological mechanisms that underpin human emotions.

On the other hand, there are some aspects of AI in movies that are accurate. For example, the idea that AI can automate certain tasks and improve efficiency is certainly a reality. Additionally, the concept of machine learning, where AI can learn and adapt to new situations, is also accurate and becoming more widespread.

Embracing AI in the Real World

While it's fun to explore the world of AI in movies, it's important to remember that the reality of AI is much more nuanced and complex. By understanding the limitations and possibilities of AI, we can work to harness its potential for good and minimize its negative impacts.

In conclusion, AI has been a staple of science fiction for decades, and while many of these depictions are inaccurate, there are still aspects that are grounded in reality. As AI continues to evolve, it's crucial that we continue to explore its potential and work to ensure that it benefits society as a whole. So, the next time you see an AI character on the big screen, remember to take it with a grain of salt – and embrace the power of AI in the real world.

Authenticity is..

Authenticity will be the buzzword of the 21st century. And what is authentic? Anything not devised and structured to make a profit. Anything that exists for its own sake, that assumes its own shape. But...nothing in the modern world is allowed to assume its own shape. The modern world is the corporate equivalent of a formal garden, where everything is planted and arranged for effect. Where nothing is untouched, where nothing is authentic. And what is the most authentic of all? The past. The past is unarguably authentic. The past is a world that already existed.... The past is real. It’s authentic. And this will make the past unbelievably attractive. People...want to visit not other places, but other times...medieval walled cities, Buddhist temples, Mayan pyramids, Egyptian necropolises...the vanished world. And they don’t want it to be fake. They don’t want it to be made pretty, or cleaned up. They want it to be authentic. —Michael Crichton, Timeline (1999)

- People want the real deal. They want it customized and available to them instantly and in any format they choose. It is up to marketers to differentiate themselves and provide memorable, genuine - authentic experiences.

More thoughts on Conversational Authenticity and Authentic Communications

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