Autonomous AI? Not even close.

Chris Hood joins Alyssa Nolte to break down why “agentic AI” is more hype than truth and what it really means for teams trying to serve real customers. If you care about rethinking the future of customer relationships, this conversation hits hard and clears the fog.

Alyssa and Chris talk about the big claims companies make, why true autonomy isn’t here, and how sloppy AI use can actually push customers away. This is a sharp, practical look at what AI can do right now... and what it absolutely cannot.

Why listen: You’ll walk away clearer, smarter, and far less likely to fall for the next shiny promise about “fully autonomous” systems. Chris pushes back on the hype. Alyssa brings real-world customer insight. Together they show what leaders are missing.

3 key takeaways:

• Most “autonomous” AI is just automation with better marketing.
• Companies risk real harm when they force AI on customers without choice.
• Customer centricity is a mindset, not a buzzword, and most teams don’t truly have it.

Mentioned:

• Gary Marra
• Discover Card’s “talk to a human” positioning
• Taco Bell and Chick-fil-A checkout experiences
• Chris Hood’s site: chrishood.com

Alyssa Nolte and Melih Oztalay rethink what it takes to lead in a world that never slows down.

Change moves fast. Most teams can’t keep up. Alyssa Nolte and Melih Oztalay break down why the speed of innovation is overwhelming even early adopters, and what leaders can do to stay grounded while everything shifts around them. If you’re trying to make smart choices about new tech, AI, or customer needs without burning out, this conversation will help you rethink your approach.

Why listen: Melih shares a clear way to decide which changes matter, which you can ignore, and how to avoid fear-based leadership that slows companies down. Alyssa brings it back to real customer relationships and the choices teams make every day.

Key takeaways:

1. The rate of change is past human capacity, so leaders need a simple way to evaluate new ideas.
2. Fear-based leadership slows companies down and hurts customer trust.
3. AI is a tool for smarter decisions, not a shortcut. You still need the right foundation.

People and resources mentioned:

• Jeffrey Moore’s “Crossing the Chasm”
• Neil Patel
• Google Hummingbird algorithm
• AI agents and generative AI tools

Learn how to show up as a real human behind the screen and build trust in a world where so much connection happens through Zoom. Alyssa Nolte and Russell Van Brocklen rethink what it means to make people feel seen, even when you’re miles apart.

Alyssa and Russell break down why most digital communication falls flat and what actually creates connection. Russell shares the method he uses to help people show up with clarity, confidence, and a sense of self that cuts through the noise. If you work with customers, sell, or lead online, this will rewire how you think about presence.

Why you should listen: this conversation shows how simple tweaks can help you connect in a more human way, deepen relationships, and make your message stick.

Key takeaways

» Universal themes make connection easier and more authentic

» Real preparation builds trust and sets you apart from everyone else

» Confidence grows when you know the feeling you want your customer to have

Resources mentioned

Peter Zeihan

Overcoming Dyslexia by Dr. Sally Shaywitz

Bloom Energy Drink (crisp apple)

dyslexiaclasses.com