Casey Cheshire

How can marketers break old habits and innovate to create meaningful B2B buyer experiences? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire sits down with Jennifer Cortez, Chief Marketing Officer of Alkami Technology, to explore how innovative marketing strategies can create real value and move beyond outdated practices. Jennifer shares her perspectives as a SaaS marketing expert, emphasizing the importance of personalized approaches, a culture of experimentation, and leveraging data and AI for smarter decision-making. Jennifer provides practical insights on rethinking traditional marketing tools, crafting content that resonates, and embracing the evolving buyer’s journey. She discusses the significance of mentorship, taking calculated risks, and fostering a marketing culture that continuously innovates. Through real-world examples, Jennifer highlights how leaders can create meaningful buyer experiences while staying ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive market. In this episode, we cover: Why marketing the way you want to be marketed to leads to stronger buyer connections How to balance personalization, content strategy, and data-driven decision-making The role of AI and innovation in shaping the future of B2B marketing Why embracing change, mentorship, and risk-taking is critical for growth If you’re a marketing leader looking to break away from “dinosaur” practices, elevate your strategies, and create experiences that truly engage buyers, Jennifer’s insights provide an actionable roadmap for modern marketing success. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Jennifer: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferncortez/   Alkami Technology: https://www.alkami.com/  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

What does it take for marketers to truly connect with their audience and harness AI for impactful strategies? In this episode of Connect to Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Megan Ward, SVP of Marketing and Product Management at 360Factors. Megan offers a thoughtful and tactical breakdown of how marketers can deepen their understanding of target audiences by engaging directly and using AI-driven insights. She shares why marketing leaders must spend time with “real people” to uncover authentic needs, the importance of attending industry events for firsthand market observation, and how AI analysis of call recordings can reveal key customer questions and concerns. Megan also reflects on her career journey and the lessons that helped her overcome limiting beliefs. Throughout the conversation, Megan highlights actionable insights on connecting with customers, harnessing AI for smarter marketing, and documenting knowledge to empower teams. In this episode, we cover: The importance of engaging directly with your target market Using AI to analyze customer interactions and extract insights The future of AI in marketing: digital agents and personalized tools The critical role of documenting and sharing knowledge within teams If you're looking to build deeper market connections and integrate AI thoughtfully into your marketing, Megan’s insights provide a practical guide for leaders ready to innovate and lead with empathy. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Megan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/radiantmegan/ Substack: https://substack.com/@meganward989011  360factors: https://www.360factors.com/   Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

What happens when we slow down and lead with gratitude in a fast-moving, pressure-filled marketing world? In this special holiday episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire goes solo to reflect on the power of gratitude and why expressing it, openly and excessively, matters more than ever. Without a guest, Casey shares a heartfelt message of thanks to listeners, fellow marketers, and the team behind the show, creating space for presence, appreciation, and connection during the holiday season. Casey explores how gratitude can shift perspective, ease anxiety, and reduce fear and frustration, especially during moments of uncertainty or burnout. Drawing inspiration from voices like Jay Shetty, Robert Holden, and Gertrude Stein, he highlights how gratitude fosters abundance, peace, and a deeper sense of awareness in both work and life. This episode serves as a reminder that gratitude isn’t passive, it’s a practice that can transform how we show up for ourselves and others. In this episode, we cover: Why gratitude is a powerful tool for reducing anxiety and stress How expressing appreciation creates presence, peace, and perspective Quotes and reflections that reframe gratitude as an active practice Why now is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and say thank you If you’re closing out the year feeling stretched, reflective, or hopeful for what’s ahead, this episode offers a meaningful pause, and an invitation to carry gratitude with you into the new year. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Casey: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseycheshire/  Ringmaster: ringmaster.com  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

What does it really take to turn community into a powerful, long-term growth engine in an increasingly automated marketing world? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire sits down with Sarah McNabb, Chief Marketing Officer at GigaStar, to explore how community-driven strategies fuel sustainable marketing growth, particularly within fintech and emerging technology spaces. Sarah reframes community not as a one-off tactic, but as a core business strategy rooted in trust, advocacy, and human connection. Sarah shares practical insights on defining community, building engaged and supportive spaces, and maintaining authenticity as AI becomes more embedded in marketing and customer experiences. She discusses the importance of empathy in customer interactions, managing communication overload, and how platforms like Discord are evolving to support diverse, purpose-driven communities. Through real-world examples, Sarah highlights how strong communities create resilience, deepen brand loyalty, and empower marketers to stay connected and informed. In this episode, we cover: Why community should be treated as a foundational marketing strategy How authentic human engagement builds trust, loyalty, and advocacy The role of empathy in customer experience and community leadership How to balance AI-driven efficiency with meaningful human interaction If you’re a marketing leader looking to create deeper connections, strengthen brand resilience, and drive growth through community, Sarah’s insights offer a clear and actionable path forward. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Sarah: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahmcnabb/    Twitter: https://x.com/SarahMcNabb2016  GigaStar: gigastar.io/  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

What does it really take to build authentic, human-centered relationships in a B2B world driven by metrics and automation? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire sits down with Beth Magee, VP of Marketing at GSI, to explore the power of authenticity in B2B marketing. Beth challenges the traditional view of buyers as transactions, emphasizing instead that buyers are people first. Drawing from her recent learning with the Arbinger Institute, she unpacks what it truly means to adopt a human-centric mindset in business. Beth shares practical strategies for building genuine connections, communicating with intention, and fostering deeper alignment between teams and clients. Through real-world examples and personal reflections, she explains how curiosity, empathy, and understanding personal context can reshape organizational culture and elevate professional relationships. Beth discusses how leaders can shift toward a more empathetic, people-first approach that strengthens both external partnerships and internal team dynamics. In this episode, we cover: Why treating buyers as people, not objects, drives stronger B2B relationships How curiosity and personal context improve communication and trust Practical techniques for building genuine, lasting professional connections The role of networking in growth, challenge, and long-term success If you're a business or marketing leader looking to build more authentic, human-centered relationships that drive both connection and results, Beth’s insights will inspire a more empathetic and impactful approach to growth. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Beth: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethlmagee/   GSI, Inc: https://www.getgsi.com/   Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can purpose-driven marketing and AI-powered personalization transform the way brands connect with customers? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Andy Dé, Chief Marketing Officer at Lightbeam Health Solutions, to explore how understanding customer challenges and leading with value can turn marketers from vendors into trusted advisors. A three-time CMO and internationally recognized thought leader in AI for healthcare and life sciences, Andy shares how meaningful connection starts with truly listening to the customer. He dives into how AI can be leveraged for personalized outreach without crossing into invasiveness, and why value-based, consultative selling is essential in today’s digital-first world. Drawing from both his professional journey and personal experiences, Andy discusses how aligning marketing strategy with customer needs,  and a purpose bigger than oneself,  leads to deeper trust and stronger results. He also reflects on the evolution of marketing, continuous learning, and how finding your “why” shapes long-term success. In this episode, we cover: Why understanding customer challenges is the foundation of effective marketing How to use AI for personalization without losing trust Why value-based, consultative selling outperforms transactional marketing How purpose, resilience, and continuous learning shape impactful leadership If you're a marketing leader looking to build stronger, more authentic customer relationships while responsibly leveraging AI, Andy’s insights will inspire a more meaningful, value-driven approach to growth. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Andy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyde/   Personal Website: andyde.com  Lightbeam Health Solutions: https://lightbeamhealth.com/    Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can a customer-first mindset and AI-driven insight transform founder-led growth? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Yogesh Mehra, Chief Marketing Officer at Neu, to dive into the power of connecting with customers more deeply than traditional marketing tactics often allow. Yogesh shares why many growth challenges are actually rooted in a lack of customer understanding, and how founders and marketing leaders can shift their focus to what really matters: the customer. He explores how qualitative and quantitative research, combined with clear customer personas, can create a foundation for better decisions and more effective campaigns. From uncovering untapped market opportunities to integrating AI as a tool to amplify, but not replace, human creativity, Yogesh provides a framework for aligning marketing strategy with real customer needs. He also discusses the evolving role of marketing leadership, the importance of curiosity and agility, and how focusing on customer-first approaches drives growth. In this episode, we cover: Why most growth challenges stem from a lack of customer insight, not tactics How to define and leverage customer personas to uncover new opportunities How to use AI as an amplifier of strategy and creativity, not a substitute for human judgment Why modern marketing leadership starts with curiosity, feedback, and a customer-first mindset If you're a founder or marketing leader looking to build smarter, growth-oriented strategies rooted in real customer insight, Yogesh’s perspective will challenge your assumptions and elevate your thinking. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Yogesh: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yogeshmehra/   Neu: https://neumoney.app/   Substack: yogeshmehra.com   Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can marketers engage buyers earlier, create value through benchmarking, and build smarter strategies that drive real B2B results? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Michael Phelan, Principal and Founder at Go-to-Market Pros and a leading B2B marketing strategist, to explore how early buyer engagement and actionable benchmarking can transform the impact of modern marketing. Michael challenges the belief that buyers want to delay conversations and explains why engaging them early, when paired with real value, creates stronger momentum in the buying cycle. He shares how comparing performance against best-in-class competitors motivates action and helps marketing teams produce content that truly resonates. He also breaks down the power of running benchmarking studies, conducting moderated prospect meetings, and involving CMOs directly in conversations to uncover insights that shape long-term strategy. From leveraging community-driven learning to embracing AI tools, Michael highlights how marketers can elevate their programs by focusing on strategic alignment and real-world buyer understanding. He emphasizes that leaders must move beyond outdated models, stay close to their customers, and use early-stage engagement to strengthen decision-making and drive better outcomes. In this episode, we cover: Why early-stage buyer engagement leads to stronger conversations and better outcomes How benchmarking creates insight-rich content and motivates buyers to take action Why moderated prospect meetings uncover game-changing strategic insights How communities and AI tools enhance modern B2B marketing strategy If you’re a B2B marketing leader looking to drive deeper engagement, sharpen your strategy, and build programs rooted in real buyer insight, Michael’s perspective offers a practical and powerful guide to modern marketing success. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Michael: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaeljphelan1/  Go-To-Market Pros: http://www.gotomarketpros.com  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can marketers harness AI to boost productivity and innovation without losing the human expertise that drives real results? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Keven Ellison, Vice President of Marketing at A.I.S., to explore how AI is transforming marketing, content creation, and business systems while still honoring the experience and strategy that drive real results. Keven discusses the rapid advancements in AI and why being proficient in AI is essential for marketers to stay relevant. He shares his journey of learning to prompt effectively and building AI workflows that have drastically increased productivity. The opportunity lies in using AI to scale strategically while keeping messaging aligned with what truly matters to buyers. He shares why marketers must guide AI tools like a new team member by equipping them with brand knowledge, audience insights, and clear instructions to ensure quality and consistency. From building strong workflows to creating human feedback loops, Keven explains how marketers can accelerate content creation without sacrificing strategy or creativity. He also highlights the future of AI in organizations, predicting the transformation of traditional CRMs and human resource departments into AI-driven systems, and emphasizes the need for marketers to adopt and adapt to AI technologies to lead effectively. In this episode, we cover: Why marketers must stay ahead of AI trends to remain competitive How to master AI prompts and build scalable workflows How AI is changing the future of work, including CRM and HR systems Why human creativity and business experience remain essential If you’re a marketing leader looking to leverage AI while strengthening your strategy and creativity, Keven’s insights provide a smart, practical path to modern marketing success. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Keven: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevenellison   AIS-NOW: https://www.ais-now.com/  PromptMaster XL 1.2: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-682a348e1f7c8191a11cd42dda5f9ff3-promptmaster-xl-1-2  Image Prompt Architect: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-682bbe0333f48191aa6521a6cbf93958-image-prompt-architect Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can embracing AI elevate your marketing without losing the fundamentals? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Nick Talbert, VP of Growth & Marketing at BRIA.AI, to explore how AI can transform marketing execution while still honoring the core principles that drive real results. Nick discusses the paradox of automation and why technology doesn’t remove bottlenecks but simply moves them. The opportunity lies in using AI to scale strategically while keeping messaging aligned with what truly matters to buyers. He shares why marketers must train AI tools like a new team member by equipping them with brand voice, audience knowledge, and clear guidelines to ensure consistency and quality. From building the right messaging foundations to creating strong human feedback loops, Nick explains how marketers can use AI to accelerate content without sacrificing strategy or creativity. He also highlights the importance of curiosity, agility, and experimentation in staying competitive as marketing continues to evolve. In this episode, we cover: Why automation alone doesn’t fix marketing bottlenecks How to train AI with brand knowledge and audience insights Why governance and human creativity are essential in AI workflows How curiosity drives more effective, innovative marketing If you’re a marketing leader looking to adopt AI while strengthening your brand and strategy, Nick’s approach provides a smart, practical path to modern marketing success. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Nick: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-talbert/   BRIA AI: https://bria.ai/   Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can mapping the buyer journey strengthen your market connection? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Cody Frew, VP of Marketing at CareCloud, to unpack how buyer journey mapping can transform B2B marketing strategy. Cody shares how clearly defining your ICP and buyer personas (and mapping their goals, actions, and questions across each stage) creates a powerful foundation for more effective, targeted campaigns. He explores why many marketing challenges stem from a lack of buyer understanding, and how mapping every touchpoint brings clarity, focus, and better collaboration across teams. From identifying content gaps to driving alignment between marketing and sales, Cody breaks down a practical framework for building maps that lead to real connection and measurable growth. He also discusses the evolving role of community in marketing, the rise of AI as a creative partner, and why curiosity remains a marketer’s most valuable skill. In this episode, we cover: Why mapping the buyer journey is key to improving engagement and conversion How to define and apply your ICP and buyer personas effectively The most common mistakes teams make when mapping and how to avoid them How community and collaboration elevate your marketing impact If you’re a marketing leader looking to connect more deeply with your market and customers, Cody’s approach offers a clear roadmap to more strategic, human-centered marketing. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Cody: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/codyafrew/    CareCloud: https://carecloud.com/  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can prioritizing customer understanding reshape your B2B marketing approach? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Eric Bogard, Fractional Marketing Leader to High Growth Saas B2B, to dive into the power of understanding your users more deeply than traditional marketing tactics often allow. Eric shares why many marketing challenges are actually rooted in a lack of user insight, and how early-stage founders and marketers can shift their focus to what really matters: the customer. He explores how empathy, curiosity, and a strong grasp of ICPs can create a foundation for better decisions and more effective campaigns. From using Google Ads for fast feedback loops to integrating AI as a tool to amplify, not replace, marketers' skills, Eric provides a framework for aligning marketing with real user needs. He also discusses the evolving role of product marketing, the value of advisory boards, and how lifelong learning plays a key role in career growth. In this episode, we cover: Why most marketing problems are really understanding problems, not tactical ones How to anchor every campaign to your ICP and balance quick wins with long-term discovery How to use AI as an amplifier of insight and empathy, not a substitute for them Why modern marketing leadership starts with curiosity, feedback, and connection If you're a founder or marketing leader looking to build smarter strategies rooted in real customer insight, Eric’s perspective will challenge your assumptions and elevate your thinking. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Eric: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericbogard/   Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can deep customer understanding drive more effective B2B marketing strategies? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Greg Perotto, VP of Global Marketing at Poggio to explore the power of deep customer understanding in shaping successful B2B go-to-market efforts. Greg emphasizes the critical need to move beyond surface-level personas and truly understand customer needs, priorities, and challenges to drive meaningful marketing and sales alignment. He shares how AI technologies can be leveraged to continuously update and deliver relevant, real-time context about customers, helping teams create more personalized and impactful experiences. Greg also reflects on his own career journey, offering advice on mentorship, self-awareness, and finding purpose in your work. In this episode, we cover: How to move beyond static personas and gain real-time, contextual customer understanding The role of AI in scaling personalized marketing and keeping insights fresh and actionable Why product-market fit is a moving target and how to stay aligned with evolving customer needs How to use customer context as a strategic advantage in sales conversations and GTM planning If you're a marketing leader looking to elevate your B2B strategy with sharper customer focus and smarter use of AI, Greg’s insights deliver both inspiration and practical guidance. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Greg: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregperotto/   Poggio: https://www.poggio.io/  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can marketers ensure their brand remains visible in an AI-dominated digital landscape? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes David Reske, Founder and CEO of Nowspeed to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the way companies achieve visibility and connect with customers. David emphasizes the urgency for marketers to adapt to AI technologies, especially large language models like ChatGPT, or risk becoming invisible in a rapidly evolving marketplace. He shares actionable strategies for creating an LLM briefing book to teach AI systems about your company, ensuring your brand appears in AI-driven search results. David also explains how to conduct AI-focused content audits, implement strategic content plans, and align SEO efforts with AI capabilities to stay ahead of the curve. In this episode, we cover: The rising influence of AI and LLMs in marketing visibility How to build an “LLM briefing book” to educate AI about your brand Conducting audits and crafting content strategies for AI optimization Why marketers must act now to remain discoverable in AI-powered searches If you’re a marketing leader aiming to future-proof your brand’s visibility and stay competitive in the age of AI, David’s insights offer a practical and forward-looking roadmap for success. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with David: David’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidreske/   Nowspeed’s website: https://nowspeed.com/   Digital Marketing in the Zone: The Ultimate System for Digital Marketing Success: https://marketing-in-the-zone.com/  & https://www.amazon.com/Digital-Marketing-Zone-Ultimate-Success/dp/168350268X/ref=sr_1_1  In The Now: Untangling Marketing Myths Podcast: https://nowspeed.com/in-the-now/   Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can marketers master urgency to accelerate growth and boost sales performance? In this episode of Connect to Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Steve Kahan, Marketing Advisor at Insight Partners and bestselling author, to uncover the key to creating urgency in modern marketing. Drawing from his latest book, Steve shares proven strategies to spark action in potential customers and drive real business results. The conversation explores the psychology behind urgency, how to align marketing efforts with revenue goals, and why inaction can be your biggest competitor. Through engaging stories and practical frameworks, Steve reveals the exact playbook he’s used to help multiple companies achieve explosive growth. Steve breaks down how to highlight customer pain points, build constructive discomfort, and tailor urgency for both personal and market-level motivation. He also addresses how to bring urgency into “boring” industries and how marketing teams can apply these methods using scalable tools and organic traffic. In this episode, we cover: Understanding decision drivers and the psychology of urgency Identifying and exposing customer pain points to inspire action Creating personal and market urgency that converts leads Leveraging organic traffic and content to generate demand If you're a marketing leader looking to align your strategy with revenue outcomes and shorten the sales cycle, Steve's insights offer a clear, actionable guide to mastering urgency in your go-to-market approach. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Steve: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevekahan/  Company website: https://www.insightpartners.com/  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can marketers harness AI to create personalized, scalable, and effective marketing strategies? In this episode of Connect to Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Mike Montague, Founder of Avenue9 and Host of Human-First AI Marketing Podcast, to explore how AI-driven marketing can unlock new levels of connection and efficiency. The conversation dives into how storytelling, audience understanding, and AI tools come together to elevate marketing efforts. Mike shares actionable strategies for building trust through storytelling, qualifying audience personas, integrating AI for automation and scaling, and tailoring communications using personality insights. He also highlights the importance of continually refining your approach to discover the ‘aha’ moments that resonate deeply with your audience. In this episode, we cover: Building trust through storytelling and connecting with audiences Qualifying and understanding diverse audience personas Crafting scalable and adaptable marketing stories with AI Integrating and automating AI tools to streamline marketing If you’re a marketing leader looking to leverage AI to enhance connection, creativity, and efficiency, Mike’s insights offer a practical and inspiring framework to elevate your marketing strategy. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Mike: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedmontague/   Company website: avenue9.com Human-First AI Marketing: https://podcast.avenue9.com/2435068/follow   Books: amazon.com/author/mikemontague  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/.

How can marketers use empathy and customer storytelling to drive B2B growth? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Rob Freedman, Vice President of Marketing and Partnership at EZO, to explore the power of empathetic marketing and authentic customer storytelling. The conversation centers on how listening deeply to customers can transform them into brand champions and fuel sustainable B2B growth. He shares actionable strategies for mining customer stories, leading customer interviews, and creating internal alignment to strengthen go-to-market efforts. Rob also emphasizes the value of measuring engagement and leveraging data without losing the human connection that drives great marketing. In this episode, we cover: Turning customer stories into powerful marketing narratives Leading with empathy to build authentic customer connections Creating internal alignment to support storytelling at scale Measuring engagement to guide strategy and prove impact If you’re a B2B marketer looking to deepen audience connections and lead with empathy, Rob’s approach offers a clear and compelling blueprint for building trust, alignment, and long-term success. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Rob: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robfreedman  Twitter: https://x.com/robfreedman  EZO: https://ezo.io/  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can marketing leaders shift from tactical execution to strategic business alignment? In this episode of Connect To Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Alan Gonsenhauser, founder and CEO of Demand Revenue, LLC and experienced CMO advisor, to explore the transformation of marketing leadership. Alan emphasizes the critical need for marketing efforts to align tightly with overall business strategy, moving beyond mere tactics to drive measurable business outcomes. He shares actionable insights on creating remarkable customer experiences, prioritizing retention and upsell, and leveraging AI as a tool to enhance but not replace innovative thinking. Alan also explains the importance of speaking the language of the C-suite and focusing on net revenue retention to elevate marketing’s role in the organization. In this episode, we cover: The shift from tactical marketing to strategic business alignment Using AI to enhance marketing without losing innovative thinking The importance of customer retention and net revenue retention Communicating effectively with the C-suite to drive impact If you’re a marketing leader looking to elevate your impact by integrating strategic insight with tactical execution, Alan’s expertise offers a compelling roadmap to transform your leadership and drive business growth. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Alan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alangonsenhauser/   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlanGonsenhauser   Demand Revenue: demandrevenue.com  Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can B2B marketers succeed when every deal involves 11 or more stakeholders? In this episode of Connect to Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Adam Needles, CEO and Co-Founder of ANNUITAS, Inc., to unpack the game-changing concept of Buyer Unit Demand (BUD). Adam challenges the outdated reliance on MQLs and ABM and introduces a new framework for engaging the full buying unit, with multiple stakeholders who have diverse roles and needs throughout the journey. He shares how marketers can design conversation tracks that align with real-world buying dynamics and explains why buyer-led orchestration, not sales-led tactics, is the key to driving meaningful engagement and revenue. Adam also discusses the organizational shifts and mindset changes required to fully adopt this buyer-first approach. In this episode, we cover: Why MQLs and ABM fall short in complex B2B buying environments How to map conversation tracks around stakeholder needs and behavior The importance of aligning marketing, sales, and automation tools to the buyer journey Why focus beats scale when prioritizing content and engagement strategies If you’re ready to leave legacy metrics behind and lead with a truly buyer-centric strategy, Adam’s insights offer a clear and practical roadmap for modern B2B marketers. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Adam: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abneedles/ Annuitas: https://www.annuitas.com/  Twitter:  x.com/abneedles Balancing the Demand Equation: https://a.co/d/12hGF4F  The Chief Growth Officers Handbook: https://www.annuitas.com/downloads/the-chief-growth-officers-handbook/   Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

What does it take to build authentic communities that truly connect with your market? In this episode of Connect to Market, host Casey Cheshire welcomes Paul Jones, Moderator of the Connect To Market Community & Founder of Bridgio. Paul shares lessons from building over 40 successful communities and explains why real market connection goes beyond launching products or campaigns. He emphasizes the importance of deeply understanding your Ideal Client Persona (ICP), using empathy to craft resonant messaging, and creating space for meaningful, value-driven interactions. Paul also challenges the overreliance on technology, encouraging marketers to start simple and stay focused on human connection. In this episode, we cover: The difference between going to market and connecting to it How to understand your ICP beyond the surface level Why low-tech, high-value engagement builds stronger communities Real examples of community-led product and messaging success If you're looking to engage your audience more meaningfully and build communities that drive real connection, this episode offers practical and inspiring insights. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of Connect To Market. Connect with Paul: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauljones101/  Bridgio: https://bridgio.io/ Ways to Tune In: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/01kCcPP1ib9MSE9aNb5SQa  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/connect-to-market/id1822777920  Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b5c3fb03-482f-4496-bcd0-82c1d66fed3d  iHeart Radio: https://iheart.com/podcast/282837141/  Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/connect-to-market-6138391  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLP_sn6_Cwun_qxaOz94Epgf6zdqeTFjJV  Connect To Market is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/