Targeted Lead Generation - Helping you discover and find the best lead generation tools and techniques for your business cover art

Targeted Lead Generation - Helping you discover and find the best lead generation tools and techniques for your business

Targeted Lead Generation - Helping you discover and find the best lead generation tools and techniques for your business

By: Manny Nowak
Listen for free

About this listen

 Helping you understand and learn the dozens of lead generation tools and techniques that are available to help you generate leads in your business. Each show will feature one tool/technique and expert. Start generating more lead which will lead to more sales for your business.copyright Nowak Associates, Inc Economics Leadership Management & Leadership Personal Development Personal Success
Episodes
  • 196 Marketing in an AI powered world with Dr Vanitha Swaminathan

    196 Marketing in an AI powered world with Dr Vanitha Swaminathan
    Feb 17 2026
    In this episode of the Targeted Lead Generation Podcast, Coach Manny Nowak interviewed Dr. Vanita Swaminathan, Associate Dean of Research and Strategic Initiatives at the University of Pittsburgh, about her book "Hyper Digital Marketing." They discussed the challenges and opportunities companies face in marketing during the AI-powered era, including common mistakes, successful approaches, and the importance of rethinking fundamental business processes. Dr. Swaminathan shared her six-pillar framework for organizations to adapt to the hyper-digital age, emphasizing the need for purpose, cross-functional teams, and a culture shift. They also touched on the misconceptions about AI, the role of human creativity, and the ethical considerations in AI implementation. The interview concluded with advice for audiences to embrace AI, learn about its tools, and view it as an opportunity for increased productivity and creativity. Summary Interview with Dr. Vanita Swaminathan Manny interviewed Dr. Vanita Swaminathan, an associate dean, professor of marketing, and director of the Center for Branding at Pitt Business. They discussed her background, research, and consulting work with major companies. Manny mentioned he had reviewed her book and found it insightful, suggesting it could help sharpen the knowledge of graduates. AI Marketing Strategy Evolution Dr. Swaminathan discussed her book, which explores the evolution of marketing from pre-digital to digital and now to the AI-powered era. He highlighted that many companies are using AI tactically for productivity improvements but emphasized the need for a more strategic approach. Dr. Swaminathan advised companies to rethink processes, reorganize teams, and shift culture to leverage AI effectively, noting that successful organizations focus on cross-functional teams and data-driven decision-making. AI Implementation and Organizational Culture Dr. Swaminathan and Coach Manny discussed the importance of understanding organizational culture when implementing AI tools, highlighting the fear of job loss and the need for AI literacy. They explored successful companies' approaches to AI, distinguishing between traditional AI and generative AI. Dr. Swaminathan introduced a six-pillar framework for rethinking business operations to incorporate AI effectively, emphasizing the need for fundamental reconceptualization and re-engineering of organizations. While examples of successful traditional AI implementation exist, generative AI's impact is still emerging, with innovation often coming from small, agile teams. Hyper Digital Marketing Framework Introduction Dr. Swaminathan discussed her book "Hyperdigital Marketing," which explores the concept of hyperintelligence and its application to marketing. He explained how traditional products and services can be transformed into intelligent, AI-powered offerings and outlined a six-pillar framework, including purpose, Figital (blending physical and digital experiences), platforms, personalization, participation, and partnerships. Dr. Swaminathan emphasized the importance of brand purpose in navigating the AI-driven landscape and provided case studies to illustrate how companies can implement these concepts. AI-Driven Marketing Integration Strategies Dr. Swaminathan and Coach Manny discussed the evolving landscape of marketing, emphasizing the importance of integrating physical and digital channels to create seamless customer experiences. They highlighted the role of tools like augmented reality and artificial intelligence in enhancing lead generation and sales processes, particularly for high-touch sales environments. Manny noted the growing interest in AI among entrepreneurs and the need to refine questions to optimize AI tools' effectiveness. Both agreed that entrepreneurs are well-positioned to leverage AI technology for their businesses. AI Implementation and Human Collaboration Dr. Swaminathan discussed the evolving nature of AI and addressed common misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of context in AI usage and the need for human oversight to enhance productivity rather than replace human creativity. She highlighted the necessity of designing processes for optimal human-AI collaboration and stressed the role of ethical standards and guardrails in AI implementation. Dr. Swaminathan encouraged patience from senior leadership in AI adoption, noting that while immediate productivity gains are visible, more strategic AI applications require time to yield results. She also introduced an upcoming AI Transformation Challenge for 2026 and provided resources for audiences to learn more about AI implementation. WEBSITE: https://business.pitt.edu/professors/vanitha-swaminathan/ SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.facebook.com/PittBusinessSchool/photos/vanitha-swaminathan-thomas-marshall-professor-of-marketing-and-director-of-the-c/10158297436008280/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanitha-swaminathan-5924896 Instagram (...
    Show More Show Less
    33 mins
  • 195 Marketing and the AI Journey - Please Tell Me More

    195 Marketing and the AI Journey - Please Tell Me More
    Feb 10 2026
    Aby Varma The podcast episode focused on AI in marketing, where Aby shared his background and expertise in guiding marketing executives through their AI journey, emphasizing the importance of responsible AI implementation and strategic business use. They discussed the challenges and misconceptions surrounding AI adoption in businesses, highlighting the need for careful integration, domain expertise, and the importance of human judgment in AI-driven decision-making. Summary AI Marketing Strategies Discussion Manny introduced the podcast episode on AI in marketing, welcoming Abby Varma as the guest. Abby shared his background as a global business and marketing leader, founder of Spark Novus, and host of the Marketing AI Sparkcast podcast. He emphasized his focus on guiding marketing executives through their AI journey and creating responsible strategies for business growth. Manny and Abby discussed the importance of AI in marketing and the episode's aim to help listeners use AI effectively for better results. AI Marketing Strategy Expert Aby shared his background in marketing and sales, highlighting his 20+ years of experience and his transition into AI during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasized the importance of combining sales and marketing perspectives to enhance marketing strategies, advocating for a data-driven approach that considers the needs of sales teams. Aby also mentioned his role in founding SparkNews about three years ago, where he continues to focus on the intersection of marketing and technology. AI Evolution and Strategic Integration Aby discussed the rapid evolution of AI, particularly generative AI and the emerging concept of AI agents, noting that 2025 marked a shift from basic AI adoption to strategic business use. He highlighted the importance of education and responsible AI implementation, addressing concerns about job displacement and emphasizing the need for strategic integration of AI as an assistant to human workers rather than a replacement. AI Agents vs Traditional Automation Aby explained the concept of AI agents, distinguishing them from traditional automation by their ability to interpret and perform non-deterministic tasks based on guidelines, using Salesforce's Agent Force as an example. AI Strategy and Change Management Aby discussed the importance of viewing AI as a strategic change in operating approach rather than just a tool adoption. He emphasized that successful companies align AI initiatives with their strategic pillars and business goals, while also focusing on employee change management, literacy, and hands-on experimentation. The key success criterion he highlighted was developing an overarching AI strategy for 3 years before selecting specific tools and technologies. Strategic Technology Adoption Insights Aby advised Manny to test new technologies with a small group before scaling up to avoid disruption, drawing from his experience with companies implementing AI and other tools. He emphasized the importance of aligning technology initiatives with strategic goals, rather than chasing the latest "shiny toys," and shared a real example of a company that had to pivot from an AI project to a more strategic go-to-market initiative. Aby also highlighted the critical mistake of ignoring the human element in technology adoption, noting that employees often fear job loss and lack clarity on appropriate AI usage due to inadequate governance and training. AI Implementation Challenges in Business Manny and Aby discussed the challenges and misconceptions surrounding AI implementation in businesses. Aby emphasized the importance of domain expertise and highlighted that AI is not a silver bullet for quick results, but rather a tool that requires careful integration into existing processes. They also talked about the need for patience from executives and the importance of human judgment in AI-driven decision-making. Aby advised listeners to look for case studies and references when seeking AI expertise and to focus on how AI can enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. How to connect with Aby: https://public.3.basecamp.com/p/GMJKy5M9ifHL7EQkiRNPVhh7 https://sparknovus.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/abyvarma/' Connect with Manny: Email: Manny@mannynowak.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mannynowak/ Website: http://coachmanny.com/
    Show More Show Less
    35 mins
  • 194 Build Successful Relationships Through Networking That Generates Revenue with Sarah Hubbard

    194 Build Successful Relationships Through Networking That Generates Revenue with Sarah Hubbard
    Feb 3 2026

    Sarah, provided practical advice on networking in the mortgage and other industries, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, tailored interactions, and consistent follow-up through her MAPP framework.

    Sarah discusses her upcoming book on networking, which focuses on the MAPP framework (Mindset and Intention, Authentic Presence, Precise Messaging, and Purposeful Follow-through) and incorporates AI tools to enhance preparation for business interactions.

    Sarah, an East Coast native and former college athlete, transitioned from a potential career in physical therapy to mortgage financing after facing challenges in pursuing a doctorate. She founded the International Networker, an organization that helps entrepreneurs build meaningful relationships and scale their businesses. Sarah emphasizes the importance of adding value to networking partners and tailoring interactions to individual personalities. Her MAPP framework, enhanced by AI, aims to streamline preparation and foster genuine connections.

    Sarah discussed challenges clients face in navigating mortgage information and networking. She emphasized educating clients to make informed decisions and finding the right networking groups that align with their goals and energy levels. Sarah recommended starting with local chambers of commerce and suggested joining groups where members are further along in their careers for better networking opportunities. She advised attending meetings twice to assess fit and leaving inspired.

    Sarah shared her approach to networking in the mortgage industry, emphasizing collaboration and openness despite challenging market conditions. She highlighted the importance of clear communication, avoiding overcomplicated language, and tailoring requests to specific individuals rather than using broad terms. Sarah also stressed the significance of meaningful follow-ups, suggesting alternative ways to engage with contacts that go beyond generic messages.

    Sarah shared her MAPP framework for networking success, which includes mindset and intention, authentic presence, precise messaging, and purposeful follow-through. She emphasized the importance of preparation, sharing personal stories to build trust, and crafting specific asks rather than broad ones. Sarah also discussed the importance of follow-up and maintaining relationships through consistent communication. Manny complemented Sarah on her ability to share personal information and noted that her advice would be valuable to listeners.

    Contact Data:

    Website: https://sarah-hubbard.com/

    Instagram @sarahannflann

    Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-hubbard-flannery/
    Show More Show Less
    39 mins
No reviews yet
In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.