AI is everywhere, but using it well takes more than jumping on the latest tool or trying to automate everything with one click. In this episode, Sandy Kibling talks with Mike Montague, a human-first AI marketing expert, about how businesses can use AI strategically without losing authenticity, creativity, or connection.

Mike breaks down the common mistakes businesses make when adopting AI, why context matters, and how small businesses can start using tools like ChatGPT or Claude without getting overwhelmed.

He also shares practical prompting tips and explains why AI works best when it collaborates with humans instead of replacing them.

You’ll also hear how Avenue Nine is using AI storytelling to strengthen marketing, improve messaging, and keep the human touch at the center.

If you’ve been wondering how to make AI useful, practical, and aligned with your brand voice, this episode will help you start small, think strategically, and use AI with more confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Why AI should enhance human connection, not replace it
• Common AI marketing mistakes businesses should avoid
• How to use better prompts to get stronger AI outputs
• Why AI is more like “Tony Stark” than “Terminator”
• How small businesses can start using AI without overwhelm

Soundbites

"AI is a Swiss army knife, not a magic bullet."
"Think of AI as Tony Stark, not Terminator."
"Start small with a tool like ChatGPT or Claude."

Chapters

02:56 Mike Montague's Journey into AI Marketing
05:59 The Importance of Human-First AI Marketing
09:08 Understanding AI Limitations and Effective Prompting
11:58 Avenue Nine: Bridging Technology and Humanity
15:02 Case Study: Edvina's Transformation with AI
21:00 Authenticity in AI Marketing
23:49 Final Thoughts and Practical Steps for AI Users

Resources:

Avenue Nine
Human-First AI Marketing Podcast
Gamma for presentations
Whisper Flow (AI dictation)