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In this episode of All Hands on Tech, host Claire Quirion welcomes Jeff MacArthur, CEO of Konnekt Digital Engagement and a longtime leader in Atlantic Canada’s tech industry.
With over a decade of involvement in the Digital Nova Scotia tech community, including service on the Board of Directors, Jeff shares his insights on the evolving local tech scene, the early days of social media, the rise of AI, and hybrid networking.
The conversation dives into the story behind Third Wednesdays, Nova Scotia’s most well-attended monthly tech meetup. It explores how Jeff has created a welcoming space that connects seasoned professionals, students, and newcomers. Claire and Jeff also revisit his work on one of the internet’s first video podcasts, commandN, and his recent return to co-hosting alongside his sister Amber Mac on The AmberMac Show.
Produced by Unbound Media
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In this exciting episode of All Hands on Tech, host Claire Quirion is joined by Mike Reeves, President and Owner of Mobia Technology Innovations. From cybersecurity to cloud architecture, Mobia's work bridges technical expertise with real-world impact, and all with an east coast edge.
Mike discusses Mobia's 40 years of evolution, their "people first" approach, and how they've developed and maintained such a diverse ecosystem of services. They chat about the value of change management both for clients and their internal teams through consistent integration of feedback, learning, and training with strategy.
Produced by: Unbound Media
Sponsored by: Beyond Digital Recognition -
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In this exciting episode of All Hands on Tech, host Claire Quirion sits down with Ryan Sno-Wood from the Interactive Society of Nova Scotia (ISNS) to talk about the fast-growing world of game development in the province. From small indie teams to major collaborations with government and schools, the local gaming industry is expanding fast, and Ryan has a front-row seat.
Ryan shares how ISNS is helping build a stronger, more connected community for game developers in Nova Scotia, and why the region is starting to catch the attention of international markets. Claire and Ryan also chat about the future of games, the impact of AI, and what it really takes to get started in the industry.
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In this episode of All Hands on Tech, our host Claire Quirion sits down with Daphne North, Director of Product Marketing and Content at Dash Social, to explore the bold rebrand of Dash Hudson, and what it means for the future of creator marketing.
Daphne shares her journey into the world of content and product marketing, offering a behind-the-scenes look at Dash Social’s evolution and its mission to revolutionize how brands connect with creators. From the launch of their all-new Creator Management platform to the insights found in their latest industry report, Daphne explains how Dash Social is helping brands grow with content that resonates authentically, and at scale.
Together, Claire and Daphne dive into how creator and influencer marketing has transformed in recent years, what brands need to know to stay ahead of algorithm changes, and the rising role of AI in content strategy. With practical advice for marketers just starting out and a glimpse into the exciting innovations on the horizon, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to level up their brand storytelling and social media game.
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In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang-Smith speaks with Ashley MacInnis, founder of AMPR, a communications and PR consulting firm built on the power of strategic storytelling. Ashley shares her journey from being laid off while pregnant to launching her own business, and how that leap of faith became the foundation for a career centred on helping others show up authentically across platforms.
Ashley opens up about the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, offering a candid look at what it means to grow a business while raising a young family. From working at the rink during hockey games to taking client calls during nap time, her story is a relatable and powerful example of balancing ambition with the realities of parenting.
Throughout the episode, she reflects on her values—authenticity, resilience, and community—and how they guide her approach to both life and work. Her passion for storytelling is clear, and she explains how helping clients connect with their audiences through meaningful narratives is what fuels her work at AMPR. She also shares new directions for her business, including a growing focus on digital ads and a forthcoming book designed to help small businesses take control of their own communications.
This conversation is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone navigating the winding path of career and family life. Ashley’s perspective is honest, encouraging, and a reminder that success doesn’t always follow a straight line. Tune in to hear why she believes the best stories—the ones worth telling—often start in the most unexpected ways.
Learn more about amPR Inc: https://ampr.co/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/ -
In this captivating episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang sits down with Amy Harrison, founder of Pixels and Pieces, for an inspiring conversation that goes beyond traditional design and business storytelling.
With over 20 years of experience in print and digital design, Amy has transformed her neurodivergent challenges into her greatest strengths. From a childhood reading at advanced levels to a later-in-life ADHD diagnosis, Amy's journey is a testament to embracing one's unique way of thinking and working.
Listeners will step into Amy's world, where branding is more than colours and logos – it's about communication, psychology, and empowering entrepreneurs to tell their authentic stories. She shares insights into her work with government organizations and startups, along with her approach to design that goes beyond aesthetics.
But this episode is more than a business masterclass. It's a personal exploration of finding your path, understanding your strengths, and building a life and career that truly works for you. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a design enthusiast, or someone navigating neurodiversity, Amy's story offers inspiration, practical advice, and a refreshing perspective on success.
Bonus? She’s also a drummer in a samba band, proving that creativity knows no bounds.
Don't miss this powerful conversation that will challenge your perceptions and ignite your entrepreneurial spirit. Tune in to discover how one woman is redesigning the rules of business, one pixel at a time!
Learn more about Pixels & Pieces: https://pixelsandpieces.ca/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/ -
In this episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang sits down with David Fraser, one of Canada’s leading privacy and technology lawyers, to explore the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, privacy laws, and artificial intelligence regulation. As a partner at McInnes Cooper and a long-standing board member of Digital Nova Scotia, David shares his expertise on the challenges and opportunities facing businesses in today’s digital world.
Throughout the conversation, David discusses how new technologies bring new legal questions, why privacy and security should be built into tech products from day one, and the importance of aligning Canadian regulations with global standards. He also dives into the rise of AI, its regulatory uncertainty, and the ongoing privacy investigation into OpenAI.
Cyber threats are another major focus, with David offering insights into how businesses can prepare for data breaches and ransomware attacks. He stresses that cyber incidents aren’t a matter of "if" but "when," and emphasizes the need for companies to have strong incident response plans in place.
Beyond privacy law, David also shares his passion for technology, social media, and digital education, including his YouTube channel, where he breaks down complex legal topics for a global audience. He reflects on his journey into tech law, his commitment to supporting Nova Scotia’s tech sector, and why local businesses should think globally when developing new products.
Whether you're a tech entrepreneur, business leader, or just curious about the future of digital privacy, this episode offers valuable insights on navigating the intersection of law, innovation, and cybersecurity.
Learn more about David Fraser: https://www.mcinnescooper.com/people/david-fraser/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/ -
What happens when young women and gender-diverse youth see role models who look like them in STEM and skilled trades? They realize they belong.
In this episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang sits down with Margaret Davidson, Program Manager at Techsploration, and Jenna Slaunwhite, the team’s Program Coordinator — both proud Techsploration alumnae.
They share how this nonprofit is breaking down gender stereotypes, boosting confidence, and helping youth in Nova Scotia and PEI explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and trades.
Margaret reflects on her full-circle journey — from being a Techsploration participant in 1998 to now leading the very program that once inspired her. Jenna highlights how the organization teaches not just career skills, but life lessons — from public speaking to problem-solving.
The trio also dive into the importance of representation, the power of mentorship, and how meaningful industry partnerships and thousands of volunteer hours make Techsploration’s work possible.
If you’ve ever wondered how early career exploration can change lives — or how "if you can’t see it, you can’t be it" rings true — this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Learn more about Techsploration: https://techsploration.ca/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In this episode of All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang sits down with QueerTech’s CEO and Founder, Naoufel Testaouni, to explore the organization’s mission, impact, and future. QueerTech was founded in 2016 to address the lack of representation and inclusion of 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals in the tech industry. What started as a local meetup in Montreal has grown into a national movement, with initiatives like the QT Conference, QT Connect meetups, and Canada’s first-ever accelerator program for queer entrepreneurs.
The conversation delves into the challenges faced by queer individuals in tech, including isolation, lack of mentorship, and barriers to leadership opportunities. QueerTech aims to tackle these issues through programs designed to support early-career professionals, emerging leaders, and startup founders. By fostering connections and creating safe spaces—both in-person and online—QueerTech is working to increase representation and accessibility across the industry.
Listeners will also hear about the organization's ambitious Vision 2034, which seeks to train and support tens of thousands of queer professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs over the next decade. The discussion touches on the importance of digital inclusivity, the rise of online hate, and how QueerTech is collaborating with companies and policymakers to create a more equitable tech landscape.
With over 125 events hosted since its inception and a rapidly growing community, QueerTech continues to break barriers and create meaningful change. This episode is an inspiring look at how one organization is reshaping the Canadian tech ecosystem—one connection at a time!
Learn more about QueerTech: https://queertech.org/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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Step inside the dynamic world of Trampoline Branding, a powerhouse creative agency that has been shaping Nova Scotia’s marketing landscape for over two decades. In this episode, we sit down with Mark Gascoigne, CEO of Trampoline Branding, to uncover the strategies, challenges, and defining moments that have fueled the agency’s enduring success.
From its humble beginnings to becoming an industry leader, Trampoline has continuously evolved—embracing new technologies, adapting to an ever-changing digital landscape, and staying true to its mission of being a "force for positive change." Mark shares insights into the agency’s innovative approach to branding and marketing, the importance of storytelling, and how fostering a strong team culture has been key to their growth.
Beyond their client work, we explore Trampoline’s inspiring commitment to community impact—most notably through the “Gut” program, which has raised nearly a million dollars to improve colorectal cancer screening rates. This powerful initiative, born from personal loss, highlights the agency’s dedication to making a tangible difference.
If you're fascinated by the inner workings of top creative agencies, the evolution of branding in the digital age, or the power of purpose-driven storytelling, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build and sustain a brand that truly matters.
Learn more about Trampoline Branding: https://trampolinebranding.com/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In the latest episode of the All Hands on Tech podcast, QEII Foundation President and CEO, Susan Mullin, and Dr. David Clarke, a renowned neurosurgeon at the QEII Health Sciences Centre, share how innovation and philanthropy are transforming healthcare in Nova Scotia.
The episode explores the remarkable advancements made possible through community support, including the QEII Foundation’s success in raising $14.7 million to fund five of the six surgical robots currently in use at the QEII Health Sciences Centre. These cutting-edge technologies are revolutionizing patient care across various specialties, including neurosurgery, orthopedics, and cancer treatment. Dr. Clarke describes how these tools not only enhance the precision and safety of complex surgeries but also position Nova Scotia as a leader in healthcare innovation.
The conversation also highlights the role of simulation and virtual reality in modern medicine. Dr. Clarke explains how these technologies are changing the way medical professionals are trained, making it possible for new surgeons to refine their skills in a controlled environment before entering the operating room. This approach not only improves patient safety but also elevates the standard of care.
Mullin emphasizes the critical role of the donor community in driving these advancements. She describes the QEII Foundation as a facilitator, channelling community contributions into tangible healthcare improvements. The result is not just better care for patients but also the recruitment and retention of top medical talent drawn to the opportunity to work with state-of-the-art technology.
The episode concludes with a look toward the future, including plans to establish a Centre of Excellence in Robotics at the QEII. This initiative aims to combine cutting-edge surgical technologies with data-driven research to continue advancing healthcare innovation.
This inspiring discussion underscores the power of community, technology, and philanthropy working together to improve lives!
Learn more about the QEII Foundation: https://qe2foundation.ca/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In this episode of All Hands on Tech, hosts Eilish and Greg, explore how Virtual Hallway is tackling one of Canada’s biggest healthcare challenges: wait times to see specialists.
With patients in some provinces waiting up to five years for specialist care, the system has left many without the timely help they need. Enter Virtual Hallway, a groundbreaking app that enables primary care providers, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists to connect with specialists instantly.
Co-founder Daniel Rasic shares how the idea for Virtual Hallway began with a chance coffee shop conversation with a family doctor. In just five minutes, they developed a care plan that eliminated the need for a lengthy waitlist. This "aha moment" sparked the creation of a platform designed to replicate that efficiency on a larger scale.
Through Virtual Hallway, healthcare providers can consult specialists in real-time, bridging the gap between rural and urban areas and improving access to expertise. Studies show that 84% of these consultations prevent the need for formal referrals, allowing patients to receive immediate care while reducing stress on the healthcare system.
Rasic also discusses the challenges of scaling a healthcare tech solution, the importance of focusing on user experience, and their vision to become the ultimate hallway consult tool, expanding across Canada and beyond.
Whether you're a healthcare professional, a tech enthusiast, or someone passionate about solving systemic challenges, this episode sheds light on how innovation can reshape the future of medicine.
Learn more about Virtual Hallway: https://virtualhallway.ca/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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This episode of All Hands on Tech takes listeners on an inspiring journey with Clement Roy, founder and CEO of Nucleus Strategie, as he recounts his unconventional path to entrepreneurship and the strategic decisions that have shaped his growing company. Roy shares the story behind Nucleus Strategie’s recent expansion into Nova Scotia, highlighting the province’s vibrant tech community, its collaborative spirit, and its potential as a hub for innovation and growth.
Listeners will gain insight into Roy’s entrepreneurial mindset as he discusses his early career, his drive to create meaningful impact, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. The conversation delves into how Nucleus Strategie is carving out a unique role in Nova Scotia by not only bringing digital expertise to local businesses but also actively giving back to the community.
Roy emphasizes the company’s dedication to creating jobs and reinvesting 1% of its local revenues to support initiatives like Techsploration, a program that empowers young women and gender-diverse youth to explore careers in STEM and trades.
Roy’s deep connection to Nova Scotia is also a central theme throughout the conversation. He speaks passionately about the province’s coastal charm, welcoming culture, and its alignment with Nucleus Strategie’s values.
The episode offers a candid look at the challenges and opportunities of expanding into a new market, as well as Roy’s belief in the power of community-driven business practices.
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a tech enthusiast, or simply curious about what makes Nova Scotia a burgeoning hub for innovation, this episode is a must-listen.
Learn more about Nucleus: https://nucleusstrategie.com/en/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In this episode of All Hands on Tech, Eilish Bonang and Greg Dobson sit down with Irene Saliendra, co-founder of Fem Entity, a wellness platform that seeks to redefine self-care by creating accessible, inclusive resources for women and marginalized communities.
Irene opens up about her journey from a stable corporate career to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship. Motivated by her own experiences with health challenges and the struggles her family faced, Irene shares how these personal experiences shaped her vision for Fem Entity, which she hopes will bridge gaps in wellness support and empower individuals to prioritize their well-being.
The conversation delves into the foundational values behind Fem Entity and Irene’s drive to build a business that merges personal growth with social impact. The trio explore the challenges of creating a platform that not only supports clients in their digital journeys but also remains rooted in a mission to uplift and create meaningful change.
Irene describes her approach to wellness as holistic, discussing how Fem Entity provides resources ranging from wellness coaching to gender-affirming services, all designed to foster empowerment and encourage self-advocacy in a healthcare landscape that can often be limiting.
The busy businesswoman also talks about her new role at Nucleus, where she is taking her expertise in digital sales and transformation to a broader audience, helping clients navigate complex digital needs and build sustainable strategies for growth. She shares insights into her dual roles as an entrepreneur and consultant, explaining how she balances her time and energy to ensure that both Fem Entity and Nucleus benefit from her skills and passion.Listeners will come away with a deeper understanding of what it means to build a purpose-driven brand in a competitive industry, as well as Irene’s insights on digital transformation, wellness, and the power of community!
Learn more about Fem Entity: https://fementity.ca/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In this episode, Greg Poirier, founder and CEO of CloudKettle, takes listeners behind the scenes of building a company with a clear vision: to grow strategically with an eye on acquisition. Poirier shares how, from day one, CloudKettle was designed to be a scalable, client-focused organization, setting it up for long-term success and eventually leading to its acquisition by Bell. With years of experience in the Salesforce ecosystem, Poirier discusses the value of creating a company that can meet the demands of large enterprise clients, handling complex challenges in data security, compliance, and scalability.
The Cape Breton-born CEO talks openly about the importance of both proactive and reactive planning in the company’s growth, revealing how CloudKettle’s roadmap centred around not just delivering solutions, but also preparing the organization to adapt and improve over time. He explains the challenges and opportunities that come with supporting highly regulated industries, such as financial services and government, where compliance and security standards are rigorous. For Poirier, fostering a strong company culture and focusing on value-based billing helped create a solid foundation for CloudKettle’s steady growth and client satisfaction.
Listeners will also gain insights into the personal side of entrepreneurship as Poirier reflects on the sacrifices and rewards of scaling a business from startup to acquisition. This episode offers valuable takeaways on resilience, the importance of strategic client partnerships, and the power of having a long-term vision!
Learn more about CloudKettle: https://www.cloudkettle.com/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In this episode, our hosts, Eilish and Greg, sit down with Amit Vyas, Enterprise Account Executive, and Geoff Sullivan, Senior Sales Engineer at Arctic Wolf, to explore the evolving world of cybersecurity.
Arctic Wolf, a global leader in security operations, is revolutionizing how organizations safeguard their digital assets through 24/7 threat detection, managed security solutions, and proactive strategies. Amit and Geoff dive into the pressing cybersecurity challenges facing businesses today, such as ransomware attacks, business email compromise, and the growing risks within supply chains.
They also discuss the importance of security awareness training and how Arctic Wolf helps organizations enhance their overall cybersecurity posture.
We also touch on how cybersecurity and Formula 1 racing are more connected than you think!
Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a business owner concerned about digital safety, this episode provides practical insights into staying ahead of cyber threats in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Tune in to learn how Arctic Wolf is empowering businesses to protect what matters most!
Learn more about Arctic Wolf: https://arcticwolf.com/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In the latest episode of All Hands on Tech, we sit down with David Tonen, the co-founder and CEO of BeResponsive Media, to explore the evolving world of digital marketing and what sets his agency apart. David shares his journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, where BeResponsive Media is now leading the charge in delivering data-driven, customer-focused marketing strategies.
From SEO and website optimization to content strategy and social media campaigns, David explains how his team turns websites into powerful lead-generation engines for clients, particularly in the B2B and B2G sectors. His insights on transparency, efficiency, and leveraging data for marketing success provide a fresh perspective for anyone interested in growing their business.
But this episode isn't just about digital marketing. David also opens up about his unique approach to maintaining mental health in the tech world—his annual two-week technology sabbatical. In a time where constant connectivity is the norm, David shares how completely unplugging helps him reset and stay sharp as a leader.
Whether you're looking for digital marketing tips, entrepreneurial inspiration, or advice on how to balance the demands of a fast-paced career, this episode offers something for everyone.
Don't miss this conversation packed with actionable insights, personal reflections, and a unique take on how to thrive in the digital age!
Learn more about BeResponsive Media: https://beresponsive.com/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: https://digitalnovascotia.com/
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In this episode of All Hands on Tech, hosts Eilish and Ashley chat with Calvino Anderson, Vice President of Sales at Gallagher and one of the key organizers behind the Atlantic Technology Summit.
The trio dive into what makes this year’s 2024 Summit special, focusing on the theme, "Innovate, Integrate, Empower: Human-Centric Solutions for a Connected World." Calvino shares insights on how the event is shaping the future of technology in Atlantic Canada, bringing together tech professionals, students, and business leaders to explore cutting-edge topics like digital transformation, AI, and human-centred solutions.
The conversation covers the unique history of the Atlantic Technology Summit, now in its sixth year, and its evolution from a small meetup to a major event that draws over 500 attendees. Calvino explains how the Summit serves as a critical platform for networking and collaboration, offering attendees the chance to connect with local, national, and international vendors, participate in technical and business tracks, and hear from industry-leading experts, including keynote speaker Cherry Rose Tan. The hosts also discuss the importance of building connections within the tech community, highlighting how the Summit fosters a space for collaboration and knowledge-sharing.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or a student just starting your career, this episode offers a sneak peek into one of the premier tech events in Atlantic Canada and what to expect from the 2024 Summit!
Watch the episode now: https://youtu.be/oXS1YaDp6cQ
Learn more about the Atlantic Technology Summit: https://www.atlantictechsummit.com/
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: digitalnovascotia.com
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In this episode of the All Hands on Tech, host Eilish Bonang is joined by Rick Purcell, Managing Director, and Andy Chesters, Recruitment Director, of Humankind Global Recruitment, a company that has made a significant impact on the recruitment industry since its founding in 2024.
Specializing in a human-centred approach, Humankind has quickly expanded its operations to nine countries, including the UK, Canada, Costa Rica, Malta, Spain, Dubai, Lithuania, and South Africa.
Rick and Andy discuss their journey of rapid growth, crediting their success to their company's unique approach to recruitment, which balances innovation with a deep commitment to the individuals they work with.
The pair expanded on their shared vision of revolutionizing recruitment by prioritizing people over processes. They emphasize the importance of building lasting relationships with both clients and candidates, offering a personalized touch that sets them apart in a competitive global market.
The conversation also highlights how Humankind uses data to optimize recruitment strategies while staying true to its core value of human connection.
As Humankind continues to expand, its plans include increasing its presence in Halifax by hiring more staff and strengthening ties within the local community!
This episode offers valuable insights into how Humankind is changing the face of recruitment, one relationship at a time!
Learn more about Humankind Global Recruitment: www.humankind-recruitment.com
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: digitalnovascotia.com
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In this episode of All Hands on Tech, hosts Eilish and Greg explore the dynamic world of tech marketing with Joel Kelly, co-founder of Kelford Inc. They discuss how the rapidly evolving landscape is reshaping the way businesses communicate their value to customers. Joel brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, offering strategies for overcoming one of the most significant challenges in the industry: delivering the right message to the right audience in an impactful way.
The conversation is rich with practical advice, touching on everything from the nuances of content creation and market positioning to the growing influence of AI in shaping marketing strategies.
Throughout the episode, Joel emphasizes the importance of staying consistent and differentiating your brand in a crowded marketplace. He also explores the potential of AI as a tool for enhancing marketing efforts, while cautioning against losing the human touch that makes communication genuine and effective.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in tech marketing or looking to refine their approach in a world where AI and automation are becoming the norm. Joel's insights provide a roadmap for entrepreneurs and marketers alike, helping them to not only navigate but thrive in this new digital era!
Learn more about Kelford Inc.: www.kelfordinc.com
Visit Digital Nova Scotia: digitalnovascotia.com
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*A clarification note from Joel Kelly: "Simon Willison popularized the term “slop” but did not coin it. More information on the term here: https://simonwillison.net/" - もっと表示する
