Digital Velocity

In Episode 92 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez talks with Timothy Peterson—an executive leader with 25+ years across retail, e‑commerce, data, and operations—about how to integrate artificial intelligence thoughtfully and profitably. Drawing on roles from Bloomingdale’s and Pottery Barn to CPG business intelligence and today’s fractional CEO work, Timothy shares a pragmatic, cross‑industry view of what it really takes to make AI create business value. Timothy highlights hyper‑personalization at scale as the standout opportunity: using hundreds of relevant data sources to tailor experiences that deepen engagement and drive growth. But he cautions that rushing in can erode trust—especially when AI replaces human judgment in customer service or when proprietary content is scraped into training sets without authorization. The takeaway for brand leaders is clear: protect your data, protect your customers, and don’t let AI tools redefine your value proposition without intent. To prioritize investments, Peterson lays out a simple sequence: first upskill people (think weekly lunch‑and‑learns, practical workshops, and targeted certifications), then pilot tools to learn what really moves the needle, and only then fund larger infrastructure. He also introduces “governance as a service,” ensuring responsibility for privacy, compliance, and ethics is shared across legal, marketing, and operations—rather than bolted onto a single role within the company. Clear accountability and measured rollout beat shiny‑object adoption every time. For direct‑to‑consumer marketing leaders, the playbook is refreshingly grounded: personalize to lift conversion and LTV, document and simplify processes so AI augments what already works, narrow your focus to the channels and products that matter, and measure the impact on sentiment, conversion, lead flow, and revenue. Above all, stay adaptable and keep learning—the real competitive advantage isn’t any one model or tool, but a culture that can turn new capability into sustained customer value.

In Episode 91 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez sits down with environmental scientist and sustainability expert Sheryl Barbosa to uncover how artificial intelligence (AI) is driving the next wave of sustainability for direct-to-consumer (DTC) businesses. Sheryl brings more than 20 years of experience across industries and business sizes, from Fortune 50 corporations to local nonprofits, and offers a unique perspective on how technology and environmental responsibility can work together to create measurable impact. For DTC brands, these opportunities are vast and tangible. Erik and Sheryl discuss how AI can: • Improve targeting in direct mail campaigns to minimize waste while maximizing response rates. • Optimize packaging design, materials, and supply chain sourcing to cut down on excess materials and emissions. • Enhance logistics by identifying smarter routing patterns that reduce fuel consumption and shipping costs. • Forecast inventory needs more accurately, helping prevent losses from overproduction or spoilage. • Identify cost-effective green alternatives that are now often cheaper than traditional materials, overturning the myth that sustainability is always more expensive. Sheryl and Erik bring the conversation to life with real-world examples—from cutting down on direct mail waste to streamlining delivery routes—that illustrate how AI can drive both efficiency and sustainability. Their discussion shows how even small operational improvements can ripple outward, creating a positive impact not only for businesses but also for communities and the environment. For leaders of direct-to-consumer brands, whether scaling a fast-growing ecommerce operation or running a locally rooted small business, the takeaway is clear: AI and sustainability are not competing goals but complementary strategies. When used intentionally, AI becomes a catalyst for reducing environmental impact, building brand trust, and unlocking new avenues of profitability—all while advancing a healthier, more sustainable future.

In Episode 90 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez speaks with Lucas Petty, founder and CEO of AI Daddy, about how companies can strategically integrate artificial intelligence in their business and marketing processes to drive growth, innovation, and long-term success. Lucas shares his personal journey from having his own startup disrupted by AI to becoming an AI strategist and educator helping businesses adopt these transformative tools. This conversation dives into why many organizations are still only dabbling with AI, and how fear, habit, and misconceptions often prevent meaningful adoption Lucas outlines a practical four-step framework for adoption—People, Process, Strategy, Tools—that enables teams to identify real pain points, build effective workflows, and achieve measurable ROI with human teams and AI working collaboratively together. Listeners will learn: • Why automating tasks without a people-first mindset leads to stagnation • How to reframe AI adoption as change management rather than tool exploration • The difference between horizontal AI tools (like chatbots, note takers, and researchers) and vertical, function-specific AI use cases • Why simplifying AI governance and training employees on privacy settings is critical to protecting IP • How successful AI adoption has helped companies realize revenue growth of 50% or more without additional staff Whether you’re leading a DTC brand, scaling a marketing team, or rethinking enterprise processes, this episode offers a roadmap to integrate AI thoughtfully, balance efficiency with human expertise, and future-proof your business in an era of rapid technological change.

In Episode 89 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez welcomes Evan Blumenthal, certified EOS Implementer and business revenue growth consultant, to unpack how the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) empowers businesses to overcome stagnation, clarify leadership roles, and drive meaningful, measurable progress. Evan shares his personal journey from Walmart associate to family business executive to EOS consultant, explaining how this flexible yet structured framework helped revitalize a 147-year-old family-run company and can do the same for DTC and entrepreneurial brands struggling with misalignment, unclear vision, or process bottlenecks. This episode is imperative for founders, executives, and team leaders seeking: Whether you're scaling a high-growth ecommerce brand, leading a lean marketing team, or stuck at a plateau in your business, Evan offers a compelling case for how EOS creates traction by helping organizations focus, simplify, and thrive—one quarter at a time. Listen to learn how EOS can transform your business from reactive chaos to strategic momentum.

In Episode 88 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez sits down with David LaCombe, Chief Marketing Officer at Imperatives Delivered, to unpack what truly effective marketing leadership looks like in today’s fast-moving digital landscape. From his unique start as a paramedic to his rise as a go-to-market strategist, David shares insights that challenge conventional thinking around marketing strategy, technology, and team development. This episode dives deep into how purpose-driven businesses can align vision and execution, why marketing leaders must demonstrate causation (not just correlation), and how artificial intelligence can accelerate—not replace—critical thinking. David also offers a powerful reminder: “Be effective before you're efficient. Because scaling something broken just gives you more broken.” Whether you're a Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brand leader, startup founder, or part of a marketing agency navigating client pressure and internal change, you'll learn: Packed with practical advice and deep reflection, this episode helps marketers and executives rethink what leadership means in an AI-enabled, outcomes-driven business world.

In Episode 87 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez is joined by Corey Morris, CEO of Voltage and author of *The Digital Marketing Success Plan*, to explore how companies can eliminate guesswork and wasted spend in digital marketing by implementing a strategic planning framework. Corey introduces the START process—a five-step framework (Strategy, Tactics, Application, Review, Transformation)—that guides marketing teams in aligning digital channels with business outcomes. Together, Erik and Corey examine common pitfalls such as budget duplication, 'CEO drive-bys,' and siloed KPIs, and reveal how a well-documented and agile plan can bridge the gap between marketing activity and business profitability. Whether you're running a Direct-to-Consumer ecommerce brand, managing an agency, or optimizing B2B campaigns, this episode delivers cross-industry insights for digital marketers ready to turn chaos into clarity and drive measurable ROI. Corey's Book - The Digital Marketing Success Plan Reach Corey at his website: Corey Morris.com

In Episode 86 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez welcomes Dugan Bridges, founder and Chief Creative Director of F7 Film Distillery, to explore how cinematic storytelling is transforming digital marketing. Bridges shares his journey from screenwriter and director to helping brands connect with audiences through high-impact video content. This episode dives into the hidden cost-benefit analysis behind professional video, why still photography is no longer enough, and how emotion, music, and visual storytelling forge lasting brand impressions. From startup case studies to Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brands seeking scalability, listeners will learn how to repurpose high-resolution video for long-term marketing ROI, overcome production fears, and redefine their content strategy in a video-first world. Whether you're in retail, SaaS, or B2B, Dugan makes the case that video isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s essential for trust, memorability, and market differentiation in today’s digital economy.

In Episode 85 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez sits down with Pat Barry, President of demystifAI and a seasoned data scientist, to tackle one of the thorniest challenges in modern marketing: how to measure and forecast performance in a world full of fragmented data. From McDonald’s digital tracking systems to direct-to-consumer (DTC) marketing attribution puzzles, Pat shares his cross-industry experiences using AI and synthetic data to fill in gaps, build more accurate forecasts, and drive smarter decision-making. They unpack the often-misunderstood limitations of Google Analytics, the data blind spots caused by Safari, cookies, and ad blockers, and the growing role of generative AI in turning incomplete data into actionable intelligence. Whether you're a CMO building next year’s budget or a performance marketer struggling with conflicting reports, this episode offers deep insights into: • Why most digital data is not as accurate as you think—and how to manage it • How synthetic data can simulate realistic scenarios for forecasting and strategy • Ways to test AI-generated forecasts for precision using statistical models • What every DTC brand must know about attribution, consent loss, and multi-device journeys Tune in to learn how to use AI as your data 'time machine'—not just for insights, but for impact. Contact Pat: demystifAI - Company Website LinkedIn - demystifAI LinkedIn - personal

In Episode 84 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez speaks with Brian Joseph, CEO and co-founder of RevJen Group, to explore the powerful intersection of leadership and professional development. Drawing from decades of experience in scaling for-profit and nonprofit businesses, Brian shares insights on building purpose-driven cultures, confronting organizational challenges head-on, and reframing sales as an act of service. Listeners will learn: - Why executive burnout silently spreads through entire teams—and how to prevent it - How intentional networking (both in-person and digital) drives sustainable growth - Strategies to create space for deep thinking in an always-on world - Why starting with a “blank slate” mindset is essential for turnarounds - The truth behind the phrase, “Nothing happens without a sale” Whether you're running a DTC brand, leading a nonprofit, or managing a high-growth team, this episode is a must-listen for leaders seeking clarity, connection, and real business momentum. Contact Brian via: Linkedin -Brian Joseph Linkedin - RevJen Company RevJen.com - Company Website

In Episode 83 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez is joined by Ken Burke, founder and CEO of Microcasting, to explore the next frontier in direct-to-consumer ecommerce innovation: AI shopping agents. As AI rapidly evolves beyond chatbots, Ken shares a vision for an “agentic” future—where AI doesn’t just assist but actively guides customers through highly personalized and conversational buying experiences. Ken unpacks how Microcasting’s crawl-walk-run strategy empowers brands to experiment with AI shopping agents, replace outdated customer service tools, and ultimately integrate consumer product discovery, checkout, and post-purchase interactions into a seamless flow. Drawing on early results and real-world implementations, he reveals how AI is reshaping engagement and conversion rates through smarter, data-driven insights gather from live shopping journeys. Whether you're a brand marketing executive, digital marketer, or tech leader, this episode delivers practical and forward-looking insights on AI shopping integration that can enhance customer experience and grow revenue. Contact Ken at: MicroCommerce.ai Microcasting.com

In Episode 82 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez is joined by consultant and hospitality industry veteran Mark Maynard for a conversation that bridges the gap between high-touch restaurant experiences and high-scale direct-to-consumer businesses. Mark shares hard-won lessons on building brands that customers love and teams that perform. This episode reveals how purpose, culture, and emotional connection can drive performance across industries, from jazz clubs to ecommerce storefronts. Leaders will gain actionable takeaways on: Whether you're leading a lifestyle brand, scaling a DTC startup, or optimizing customer experience in a competitive space, this episode offers cross-industry wisdom on how to build purpose-led companies that grow with heart and impact. Linkedin - Mark Maynard Maynard Consulting

Episode 81 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez sits down with Bill Rice, founder of Kaleidico and Bill Rice Strategy Group, to unpack how AI is reshaping marketing strategies In, customer behavior insights, and business growth. From his unique roots in military counterintelligence to leading-edge digital marketing, Bill brings a rare perspective on pattern recognition, data interpretation, and the human element of marketing. Bill and Erik explore how modern marketers can integrate AI tools like ChatGPT into their daily workflows—not as shortcuts, but as strategic collaborators that elevate creativity and growth. They dissect common AI myths, the importance of “human in the loop” systems, and how emotional intelligence is the key to personalization that resonates. For e-commerce teams and marketers managing massive product catalogs or lean resources, Bill offers practical steps to leverage AI for scale without losing brand authenticity. If you’re a brand or agency leader looking to grow in today’s complex digital landscape, this episode offers timely insight into the intersection of AI, customer behavior, and long-term strategy. Bill Rice Strategy Group

In this episode of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez welcomes Dr. Cori Lathan — entrepreneur, neuroscientist, author, and trailblazer in wearable tech and neuroengineering — to explore how technology can augment human capability. Dr. Lathan, currently CEO of De Oro Devices and former CEO of AnthroTronix, shares insights from her career inventing tools for space exploration, childhood disability education, brain health, and aging. She discusses how marketers and business leaders can use AI tools not just for efficiency, but to create meaningful change and improve capabilities. The conversation touches on the rapid rise of AI-driven innovation, product adoption challenges, and the entrepreneurial mindset needed to turn vision into reality. Whether you’re a CMO, founder, or marketing specialist, this episode will inspire you to think differently about the role of failure, invention, and future-building in business. Topics include: What it means to be a techno-optimist Why AI isn’t just a tool — it’s a way to understand human behavior Marketing innovation in the age-tech and medtech industries How to approach failure, iteration, and timing in product development Advice for leaders seeking to integrate emerging tech into their business models This episode is a must-listen for those interested in marketing strategy, innovation, AI, and future-forward thinking. InventTheFuture.Tech

In Episode 79 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez welcomes Jamie Weatherby, founder of Weatherby Media, to explore how marketing teams can eliminate content chaos and scale their marketing efforts using systemized workflows and AI-powered tools. Drawing on years of experience running a full-service agency, Jamie shares the real-world struggles of managing content creation across multiple clients, platforms, and team members. She dives into how her platform, the Own It Marketing System, helps marketers and business owners simplify strategy, streamline execution, and maximize ROI—without relying on a haphazard patchwork of disconnected tools. Jamie discusses the critical importance of understanding your ideal client’s emotional needs, the power of strategic repurposing, and why modern content operations need both structure and creativity to thrive. Whether you're managing a scrappy in-house team or overseeing multiple brand voices, this episode delivers practical insights on how to create smarter, more efficient, and more consistent marketing systems that drive growth. Weatherby Media

In Episode 78 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez sits down with Kimberly Storin, Chief Marketing Officer at Zoom, to explore how modern marketing teams can strategically integrate artificial intelligence into their workflows without sacrificing the human connection that drives brand affinity. Kimberly shares insights from her deep background in B2B tech—including roles at Dell, IBM, and AMD—and breaks down what it takes to move beyond AI experimentation and into scalable, impactful implementation. From choosing the right use cases (like content generation) to fostering a culture of calculated risk-taking, Kimberly outlines a roadmap for mid-sized teams to adopt AI tools while staying rooted in customer empathy. Listeners will learn how to structure an internal AI “center of excellence,” avoid data-driven pitfalls, and balance innovation with authenticity. If you're a marketing leader curious about integrating AI thoughtfully, this episode delivers practical guidance, strategic perspective, and inspiring takeaways for the path ahead. Kimberly Storin | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez welcomes Michael Katz, founder and CEO of Flowsend.ai, to discuss how brands can use authentic marketing content to drive growth. Michael shares his journey from enterprise software to launching Flowsend, a platform that helps brands turn conversations into content while preserving their unique voice. The conversation explores why authenticity and imperfection are critical in today’s content marketing, how to overcome creative roadblocks, and what role AI should play in enhancing—not replacing—your storytelling. Michael breaks down actionable strategies for content creation, including leveraging long-form assets, empowering employees, and co-creating with customers. This episode is a must-listen for marketers looking to scale their content efficiently while staying true to their brand voice. www.flowsend.ai

In Episode 76 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez welcomes Joe Hudicka, CEO of EvenFlow and author of the upcoming book The AI Ecosystems Revolution, to unpack the evolving role of AI, trust, communication, and forecasting in the modern supply chain and marketing ecosystem. Joe shares eye-opening insights about how broken digital systems, disjointed communication, and reactive forecasting are holding brands back — and how a silent shift is already underway, driven by AI ecosystems that will be able to synthesize signals across departments, partners, and platforms. Listeners will learn: From fast fashion to freight logistics, and from generative content to permission-based AI architecture, Joe challenges listeners to reimagine how strategy, marketing, and technology converge to better serve the customer — and how marketers must play a key role in driving cross-functional change. https://joehudicka.com/

In this insightful episode, Digital Velocity Agency host Erik Martinez sits down with Kathleen Perley, founder of DemystifAI and a professor at Rice University’s Business School, to explore the real-world applications of Artificial Intelligence in eCommerce, digital marketing, and beyond. Listeners will learn about practical AI strategies that help brands streamline operations, personalize customer experiences, and drive revenue growth—without falling prey to overhyped promises or technical confusion. Kathleen and Erik also discuss ethical considerations and emerging trends in AI, offering a balanced perspective on how brand leaders can responsibly harness this powerful technology. If you’re aiming to demystify AI for your organization and stay ahead of emerging marketing trends, this episode is for you. https://digitalvelocityagency.com/episode-74-navigating-ecommerce-ai-oppurtunities-kathleen-perley

This week on the Digital Velocity Podcast, Jeanette McMurtry joins Tim and Erik to discuss how brands can identify their ESP (Emotional Selling Proposition) and why trust, authenticity and emotional connections are critical for success with customers. https://www.digitalvelocitypodcast/episodes/73-behavioral-economics-and-brand-loyalty-driving-roi-jeanette-mcmurtry