B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast

Event registrations are coming in later than ever- and for organizers of industrial auctions or executive education programs, that last-minute hesitation can make or break success. In this episode of the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast, host Donna Peterson dives into how marketers can adapt, creating campaigns that not only drive registrations but ensure people actually attend.Donna explains how email marketing remains the most dependable way to reach key decision-makers, especially when combined with AI to improve timing, segmentation, and message clarity. You’ll learn how to build awareness early, craft value-based reminders, and simplify your calls-to-action so even the busiest professionals follow through.From understanding long approval chains to empowering your recipients to become your internal advocates, this episode shows how empathy, planning, and AI-supported consistency turn one-off promotions into campaigns that fill high-value events and strengthen long-term relationships.Key Takeaways You Can Implement Right Away:Start early. Launch your awareness campaign well before your deadline—auctions: 4+ weeks; education: 3–6 months.Educate, don’t sell. Provide value that helps recipients make informed decisions and advocate internally.Use AI to assist. Let AI help you plan cadence, segment your list, and build cohesive message series.Make reminders cumulative. Each message should build momentum, not restart the story.Simplify every action. Clear buttons, short text, and visible deadlines ensure people act fast.Add empathy and consistency. Show genuine care — not pressure — so your audience trusts your brand.Episode Chapters:00:00 The new challenge: Late registrations & busy schedules02:00 Why high-value events need longer lead time and smarter planning05:30 Using email and AI to drive awareness, approval, and attendance10:00 The three pillars: Awareness, Reminders & Simplicity15:30 How to humanize your campaigns and guide decisions with empathy18:10 Closing thoughts & call to actionCall to Action:If your event campaigns aren’t getting the results you need, it’s time to slow down, plan smarter, and deliver value that earns trust. AI can help you stay consistent, but the heart of success is empathy and timing. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

In this episode of B2B Marketing Excellence & AI, Donna Peterson sits down with Bridgette Lehrer, a Global Audience Engagement Leader for the Berkeley International Study Program (BISP UC Berkeley), to talk about what it really takes to build trust in higher education marketing today.They explore how to stay personal and purposeful as technology continues to evolve — and how a thoughtful balance between traditional and digital marketing can create a stronger sense of authentic community.Bridgette shares practical ways her team nurtures long-term relationships with visiting students, alumni and campus colleagues and partners across the world. From understanding cultural nuances in international outreach to creating personalized content powered by AI, she offers insights that every education marketer can apply right away.One of Donna’s favorite examples is a simple but powerful traditional marketing initiative they use on campus: students take photos, then choose a few favorites to turn into postcards. During special events, everyone is invited to select a postcard and send it home to parents or friends. It’s a small gesture that builds genuine connection — and gets the entire UC Berkeley community involved.Whether you manage executive education programs or global enrollment campaigns, this conversation will give you actionable ideas to:Blend digital tools with human touchpoints to strengthen relationships.Use AI for personalization without losing authenticity.Reimagine traditional tactics to bring people together in meaningful ways.The future of higher education marketing isn’t about more technology — it’s about using it wisely to stay human.Timestamps00:00 — Introduction: Staying Human in the Age of AI00:37 — Meet Bridgette Lehrer, UC Berkeley01:23 — Building Relationships in a Digital World02:58 — The Power of In-Person Connections04:52 — Adapting Marketing for Global Audiences08:40 — Using AI for Personalized Communication20:24 — The Importance of Video Content25:30 — Engaging Students and Alumni on Social Media28:39 — Closing Thoughts: Keeping Engagement AuthenticBridgette Lehrer Bio-LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgette-lehrer/Bridgette Lehrer is the Assistant Director for Marketing and Outreach with the Berkeley International Study Program, a study abroad option at the University of California, Berkeley for highly motivated exchange students. Since 2009, she has cultivated expertise in students’ engagement, strategic marketing and outreach management with particular emphasis on international student recruitment and alumni relations. Prior to Berkeley, Bridgette worked in diverse industries including nonprofit fundraising, corporate marketing, and technology customer service. Her educational background includes a B.A. in Art History (Arizona State University), an M.A. in Museum Studies (San Francisco State University) and a Certificate in Digital Marketing (eCornell University).Resources Recommended by Bridgette-Engaging with International Alumni as Strategic Partners - https://www.nafsa.org/bookstore/engaging-international-alumni-strategic-partners - By Sandra Rincón, Msc, and Gretchen Dobson, EdDThe Culture Map: Decoding how People Think, Lead, and Get Things Done Across Cultures- https://erinmeyer.com/books/the-culture-map/ - By Erin Meyer *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Episode: How to Get Your Team to Embrace AI: Leadership, Training & The WhyHost: Donna Peterson, World InnovatorsEpisode Summary-Many forward-thinking CEOs and leaders are embracing AI — but struggle with one key challenge: how to get their teams on board. In this episode of the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast, host Donna Peterson shares practical strategies to inspire buy-in, align employees with AI tools, and create a culture of experimentation.Drawing from leadership principles and her own journey with ChatGPT, Donna explains why defining the “why” is critical, how transparency builds trust, and why training and one-on-one conversations are essential to long-term adoption. You’ll also hear examples of how leaders can introduce AI in simple, personal ways that reduce overwhelm and spark curiosity.If you’re a leader trying to integrate AI into your business, this 16-minute episode will help you move beyond resistance and turn your team into active adopters of AI.Key Takeaways You Can Implement Right Away-Start with the why. Explain why AI matters for the company — and help each team member find their personal why.Be transparent. Share your own AI journey, including doubts, failures, and wins.Encourage curiosity. Create space for experimentation; not every AI use case has to stick long-term.Invest in training. Don’t expect employees to learn AI on their own — provide workshops and accountability sessions.One-on-one conversations matter. Personal discussions help employees connect AI with their specific goals and tasks.Start simple and personal. Show fun, everyday uses (recipes, sports training, book summaries) to break down barriers.Make it ongoing. Set up regular check-ins so employees consistently engage with AI and build confidence over time.Episode Chapters (~16 minutes)00:00 Introduction: The challenge of getting teams to embrace AI01:10 Why the “why” is the starting point03:00 Lessons from leadership books on purpose and ownership05:20 Be transparent about your own AI journey07:15 Encourage experimentation and curiosity09:05 Why training and accountability sessions matter11:20 The importance of one-on-one conversations with team members13:40 Start small and personal: simple AI use cases to spark interest15:00 Closing thoughts and call to action: inspire success through AI adoptionResources Mentioned-Simon Sinek – Start With WhyJocko Willink & Leif Babin – Extreme OwnershipAnnie Howell & Ed Frauenheim – The AI-Savvy LeaderCall to Action-Leaders: AI adoption starts with you. Share your journey, invest in training, and connect with your team so they see the value of AI for themselves.📩 Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.com if you’d like help with AI training for individuals or full teams.🎧 Visit www.worldinnovators.com for more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies.🔔 Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

For years, Donna Peterson dreaded public speaking — sweaty palms, shaking knees, and sleepless nights before client presentations. But everything changed when she joined Toastmasters, discovering that public speaking isn’t just about overcoming nerves — it’s also a powerful traditional marketing channel that can accelerate business growth.In this episode of the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast, Donna shares how public speaking helped her build confidence, elevate the World Innovators brand, and establish trust in an AI-driven world. You’ll learn how speaking engagements complement digital marketing, position you as an expert, and generate valuable content you can repurpose across multiple channels.Whether you’re an industrial brand, a B2B marketer, or a business leader, this episode shows you how to start small, use your voice authentically, and turn communication into a growth engine.Key Takeaways You Can Implement Right Away-Start small. Join a local group, speak on a webinar, or volunteer for a panel before tackling big stages.Public speaking builds trust. In-person engagement validates expertise and creates stronger brand connections.Position yourself as a subject matter expert. Repeated exposure on your niche topic reinforces credibility.Repurpose content. Each talk can become blogs, social posts, newsletters, or video clips.Stand out from AI. Speaking live shows authenticity and personality in an era of AI-generated content.Leverage AI smartly. Use ChatGPT for brainstorming or structuring ideas, but keep the message uniquely yours.Episode Chapters-00:00 Introduction: Fear of public speaking and its impact on business01:25 My nerves and struggles before client presentations03:00 Joining Toastmasters — the turning point05:10 Beyond speaking: communication skills for business and networking07:15 Two big business benefits: visibility and sharing your mission09:50 Public speaking as a traditional marketing channel that boosts digital ROI12:20 Three ways speaking accelerates growth: trust, expertise, and content repurposing14:50 Practical tips to start: small steps, niche focus, and using AI as a support tool16:20 Call to action: take one step this week toward improving your communicationCall to Action-Public speaking changed my career — and it can transform your business too. Take one step this week: join a group, volunteer to speak, or repurpose a conversation into a short talk.📩 Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.com if you’d like to talk about Toastmasters, my journey, or how speaking can elevate your marketing.🎧 Visit www.worldinnovators.com to learn more about building trust and relationships through authentic communication.🔔 Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, communication, and leadership in today’s business world. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Episode: Event Organizers Would Never Sell You ThisHost: Donna Peterson, World InnovatorsHave you ever registered for a conference and suddenly been flooded with emails offering to sell you the attendee list? The truth is: those lists are illegal, inaccurate, and dangerous for your brand.In this episode of the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast, host Donna Peterson breaks down why attendee list offers are scams, how shady vendors scrape and fake this data, and the serious risks companies face when using unverified, non-opt-in databases.She also shares three powerful reasons to only use quality, opt-in data — from protecting your reputation to ensuring compliance — and how industry-specific publishers and conference organizers provide safe, vetted, and high-performing lists. In just 11 minutes, you’ll learn how to spot red flags, avoid scams, and build a database that drives results.Key Takeaways You Can Implement Right Away-Never buy attendee lists. They are scams and put your reputation at risk.Protect your brand. Using illegal data can get your domain blacklisted.Engagement over volume. Clean, opt-in lists drive 20–50% open rates vs. ~2% from junk data.Keep data fresh. Update regularly — job changes, title changes, even attrition matter.Trust vetted sources. Industry-specific publishers and events confirm opt-ins and compliance.Red flags to spot scams: offered before the event, vague about opt-ins, multiple domains, or misuse of organizer names.Episode Chapters-00:00 Introduction: Why attendee list scams “boil my blood”01:10 Why event organizers never sell their attendee lists02:30 How fake attendee lists are created (data scraping & guessing emails)04:15 Three reasons to only use quality, opt-in data - Reputation protection - Better ROI & engagement - Compliance & peace of mind07:45 How to spot attendee list scams (red flags to watch for)09:50 Final thoughts: Ethical marketing and building trustDon’t fall for attendee list scams. Build your database the right way with quality, opt-in data that drives results. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Episode: How Leaders Build Trust Through TransparencyHost: Donna Peterson, World InnovatorsGuest: Alfred Leach, President of Leach AdvisorsEpisode Summary-Today, businesses everywhere are facing disruption — from leadership changes and mergers to geopolitical uncertainty, supply chain pressures, and new technologies like AI. In these moments of transition, trust becomes the most valuable currency a company has.In this episode, host Donna Peterson speaks with Alfred Leach, President of Leach Advisors, about how companies can communicate with transparency, align employees and stakeholders, and protect corporate reputation during times of uncertainty. Drawing on years of guiding organizations through mergers, acquisitions, crises, and cultural shifts, Alfred shares what leaders should prioritize when disruption strikes and how to ensure their company’s “why” stays at the center.Whether you’re leading a global brand or a mid-sized company, this episode is filled with actionable insights on trust, communication, and long-term brand relevance.Key Takeaways You Can Implement Right Away-Put employees first. Communicate internally before external announcements; employees are your strongest brand evangelists.Transparency builds trust. Be open about challenges, own mistakes, and share lessons learned. Silence almost always erodes credibility.Segment your messaging. Tailor communications for employees, customers, investors, and media — each stakeholder group has unique needs.Leverage subject-matter experts. Credibility grows when leaders and SMEs speak directly to key industry issues.Use AI thoughtfully. AI is a powerful tool, but content must align with brand voice and purpose to build trust and stand out.Define and refresh your “why.” A clear sense of purpose anchors organizations through change and inspires employees and customers alike.Consistency matters. Stay visible, authentic, and relevant — don’t disappear during challenging times.Episode Chapters-00:00 Introduction: Why Trust Matters in Times of Change01:15 The Global Reset — Uncertainty in Today’s Business Climate04:05 Communication Priorities During Mergers, Acquisitions & Crises08:12 Transparency vs. Legal & Competitive Realities12:30 Why Employees Must Hear It First16:45 Building Brands People Trust — The Role of Subject-Matter Experts22:10 AI and Brand Voice — Balancing Innovation with Authenticity29:05 Defining the “Why” — How Leaders Stay Grounded in Purpose35:18 Adaptation, Innovation & Long-Term Relevance41:40 Closing Insights: Be Real, Stay Consistent, Build TrustCall to Action-If your company is navigating change, this episode will help you strengthen communication and protect trust. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Direct Mail & AI: Old-School Impact with New-School ToolsDirect mail is making a comeback — and when paired with AI, it becomes an even stronger marketing tool. In a digital-first world, a tangible piece of mail can stand out, build trust, and validate your brand. Add AI into the mix, and you can streamline the process, refine yourmessage, and connect with prospects in smarter, more personal ways. In this episode, Donna Peterson shares how direct mail can deliver old-school impact while leveraging new-school tools like ChatGPT. She walks through her recent Fabtech promotion as a case study, highlighting how validating postal data, segmenting audiences, andintegrating direct mail with digital campaigns creates measurable results. You’ll also discover how AI can support every step of the process — from reviewing lists for accuracy to cultivating messages that resonate with different audiences. The result? Stronger relationships, deeper trust, and marketing that truly cuts through the noise.Key Takeaways You Can Implement Right Away:Validate your list before you send — accurate data builds credibility.Segment your audience so each message speaks directly to their role and challenges.Use AI to refine your copy — test different tones (professional vs. conversational) and let ChatGPT help polish your message.Integrate channels — don’t stop at postal; link your direct mail with email, social, or tradeshow outreach.Start small, then scale — test with 50 targeted pieces, measure responses, and expand from there.Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction: The Power of Direct Mail00:38 Meet Donna Peterson: Your Guide to Direct Mail01:11 The Resurgence of Direct Mail02:18 Building Trust Through Direct Mail04:02 Case Study: Promoting Fabtech with Direct Mail05:58 Steps to a Successful Direct Mail Campaign09:28 Segmenting Your Audience for Maximum Impact10:41 Crafting Personalized Messages with AI14:15 Integrating Direct Mail with Digital Marketing17:40 Conclusion: Old-School Impact with New-School ToolsIf this episode sparks ideas for your business, we’d love to hear from you.Sign up to receive podcast announcements, leave a comment, and rank the show — your feedback helps us continue delivering the conversations and strategies that matter most to you. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Marketing Capital Equipment: Lessons from Wintersteiger Solutions & Kohler Leveling North AmericaMarketing industrial equipment is complex — long sales cycles, high-stakes investments, and the need for absolute trust.In this episode of B2B Marketing Excellence & AI, Donna Peterson sits down with Brent Fischmann, Managing Director ofWintersteiger Solutions, to explore how companies under the Wintersteiger umbrella — including Kohler Leveling North America —approach these challenges.Brent shares how his team uses trade shows like FABTECH to stand out in crowded halls, engage with decision-makers,and move conversations forward by demonstrating technology live and addressing ROI concerns head-on. The discussion emphasizesthe importance of trust, relationships, and meaningful follow-up — the foundation for shortening long sales cycles in industrial markets.Listeners will also hear how Wintersteiger and its brands balance proven trade show strategies with modern tools like AIto create more targeted content and enhance customer interactions.What you’ll learn in this episode:How industrial brands like Kohler Leveling use trade shows to connect with buyers.Why technical support and live demonstrations build trust faster than brochures.Strategies to create content that addresses customer challenges and ROI directly.The role of relationships and follow-up in converting interest into partnerships.Where AI fits in strengthening — not replacing — human connections in B2B sales.Please comment and rank this episode so we can continue to produce the content that is most helpful for you and the industry. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

How Pennant Moldings Uses AI and Traditional B2B MarketingB2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast with Donna PetersonIndustrial marketing isn’t like selling shoes or software. It takes time, trust, and a strong understanding of how real relationships drive long-term results.In this episode, I sit down with Brian Contini, VP of Sales and Marketing at Pennant Moldings, to hear what’s actually working for their team right now. We talk about how they’re combining traditional methods—like trade shows and in-person visits—with smart use of AI to support research, improve outreach, and build stronger customer connections.Whether you're in metals, plastics, or any industrial space, this episode is full of practical takeaways you can use right away.Top 5 Topics We Cover:Why traditional marketing still works—and when to use itHow Pennant is using AI to streamline sales researchWhat’s working in email marketing todayThe importance of knowing your audience in technical industriesHow to maintain trust while integrating new tools like AIWhat You Can Do Today:Revisit your email outreach—are you focusing on the recipient’s challenge first?Identify one traditional tactic (like trade shows or phone calls) that deserves renewed attention.Choose one AI tool that could save you time with research or outreach—start testing it in a small way.Talk to your sales team: Where do they feel AI supports their efforts—and where does it get in the way?Let’s keep the conversation going:How are you helping your industrial brand stand out and build stronger relationships?Leave a comment, send me a message, or reach out at dpeterson@worldinnovators.com. I’d love to hear what’s working for you.If this episode helped you in any way, consider leaving a quick review. It helps us continue sharing real strategies that support industrial brands doing meaningful work. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

In-person meetings will always be the gold standard for building relationships. But in B2B, you can’t always sit across the table right away. That’s why B2B Personalized Video Marketing is such a powerful tool—it lets people see you, hear you, and understand your perspective before the first handshake.At World Innovators, we’ve seen this work firsthand. When I send an email with a short, personal video, people who have never met me before click because they want to see what I have to say. That video starts a conversation—viewers hear my tone, see my face, and begin to understand that I’m here to help them succeed.In this episode, I’ll cover:What makes a B2B video truly personalized.Why videos in email campaigns increase engagement.How to make sure the right people see your video.Simple ways to use AI tools like ChatGPT to plan and repurpose content.If you have a video you’re proud of but aren’t sure how to get it in front of your ideal audience, let’s make sure the right people are clicking, watching, and starting the conversation with you.Thank you for listening, please comment below and let me know what you are doing with your B2B Personalized Video Marketing. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Ever get lost down a YouTube rabbit hole when you were supposed to be checking your own channel? You click to review your latest video and somehow end up watching celebrities or cat videos instead. You're not alone—and this distraction problem is exactly what's happening to your potential B2B customers too.In this episode, I talk with Nate Woodbury, CEO of Be The Hero Studios and author of "Influence on YouTube." Nate reveals why most YouTube advice actually hurts B2B companies and shares his proven LEAF Strategy that helps businesses generate high-quality leads from YouTube—even with videos that only get 100 views.Together, we discuss how to:Use the LEAF Strategy to find ultra-specific questions your target audience is actually searching forLeverage keyword research tools that work for B2B (and which popular tools to avoid)Create "evergreen" content that continues attracting qualified leads for yearsTurn small view counts into meaningful business relationships and salesPosition yourself as the go-to authority in your industry without going viralIf you're tired of chasing vanity metrics and ready to use YouTube strategically for lead generation, this conversation offers a completely different approach that focuses on quality over quantity.About Nate: Nate Woodbury is the CEO of Be The Hero Studios and author of "Influence on YouTube." He has produced over 60 different YouTube channels, many generating multiple seven figures in business revenue (not ad revenue) through strategic lead generation.Key Quote: "Even a video that gets a hundred views following the right strategy can turn into 10 leads. We're not talking about a video going viral, but getting found by the right people." – Nate WoodburyEpisode Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction: The YouTube distraction dilemma00:35 – Meet Nate Woodbury: CEO and YouTube strategist02:06 – Why most YouTube advice hurts B2B companies03:56 – The two opposite paths to YouTube success05:07 – How viral content can actually damage your channel07:41 – The dangers of buying fake views and engagement09:56 – Why AI makes this strategy work even better11:00 – Keyword research tools that actually work for B2B13:00 – The power of super long-tail keywords (8+ words)15:26 – Why 10 monthly searches is better than 30017:19 – How evergreen content builds momentum over time18:39 – Real example: 15K subscribers generating 8-figure revenue19:24 – The LEAF Strategy explained with tree analogy21:38 – Specific examples: dental office vs construction site productivity24:32 – Standing out in the age of AI-generated content26:24 – Building authentic relationships through video28:39 – The relationship-first approach to lead generation31:43 – Why filtering out wrong clients is actually good34:15 – Positioning yourself as the go-to industry authority37:02 – Three steps to get started (hint: use your phone!)39:16 – Why "raw" often beats "polished" contentResources Mentioned:Hero Keyword Tool (SEMrush affiliate): herokeywordtool.comFree weekly webinar on the LEAF Strategy: theleafstrategy.com Book: "Influence on YouTube" by Nate WoodburyIf you found this conversation helpful, subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI podcast, leave a review, and share it with other business leaders who are ready to use YouTube strategically. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

How To Optimize B2B Marketing Campaigns For ROIHave you ever tried to finish a round of golf as the sun goes down? It gets dark, you swing, but you can’t really see where the hole is — you’re just hitting into the dark. That’s what many B2B brands are doing with their marketing: they’re executing campaigns without clearly knowing where the target is or how to measure success.In this episode, I talk with Lori Turner Wilson, CEO of RedRover Sales & Marketing Strategy and author of The B2B Marketing Revolution. Lori shares her 12 Battles Framework, which gives companies a roadmap to bring clarity, focus, and measurable outcomes to their marketing.Together, we discuss how to:Use market research so you know exactly who you’re targeting and why.Personalize your outreach to connect with prospects in meaningful ways.Integrate traditional channels like direct mail to complement digital campaigns and reach decision-makers effectively.Adopt authority marketing to position your brand as a trusted resource and help shorten the sales cycle.If you’re serious about improving your marketing ROI, this conversation offers practical steps you can start implementing now — so you’re no longer “hitting in the dark.”About Lori:Lori Turner Wilson is the CEO of RedRover Sales & Marketing Strategy and author of The B2B Marketing Revolution.URL - marketingresultsguaranteed.com/podcast -- use code "podcast" for special offersA quote from my book - "Defy the apathy the industry expects of you and declare, 'I deserve guaranteed marketing outcomes and anyone standing in my way will be lovingly removed.'" Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction: The Challenge of B2B Marketing00:35 – Meet Lori Turner Wilson: Author and CEO02:52 – The Importance of Market Research04:17 – ROI and Marketing Strategies07:33 – Diversification and Risk Mitigation09:29 – The Power of Direct Mail11:03 – Personalization in Marketing14:53 – The 12 Battles Framework22:30 – Authority Marketing and Giving Value24:31 – Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf you found this conversation helpful, subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence podcast, leave a comment, and rank the show. Your feedback helps us continue sharing grounded, practical insights to help you succeed. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

In this episode of B2B Marketing Excellence, Donna Peterson breaks down the intimidating term “prompt engineering” and shows how it’s simply a smarter, more consistent way to work—no tech degree required.Drawing from her experience with generative AI and recent insights from the Vanderbilt Prompt Engineering course, Donna shares practical ways to use prompts for repetitive marketing tasks like campaign planning and list recommendations. You’ll hear how creating simple, reusable prompts not only saves time but also ensures your whole team is aligned—producing clear, professional results.You'll also learn:Why prompting is more about conversation than coding.How a well-written prompt becomes a shortcut you can use again and again.The difference between prompts and templates—and how to use both for better outcomes.At World Innovators, we focus on providing tools and strategies that make your work easier, your messaging clearer, and your outcomes more consistent. This episode offers practical examples to help you build confidence using AI in a way that’s simple and effective.For a step-by-step walkthrough, refer to "Prompt Engineering Examples for Business Teams: 3 ChatGPT Prompt Templates to Boost Productivity" video on YouTube- https://youtu.be/FAlcjTx_xUo?si=uQv6-naLnQGIkn4S.Episode Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & why the term “prompt engineering” can feel overwhelming00:38 – What prompting really is (and what it’s not)01:33 – The early struggles: over-explaining and second-guessing03:02 – Aha moment from the Vanderbilt course04:47 – Using prompts to simplify and speed up repetitive tasks06:14 – Real-world example: Scheduling campaigns with one simple prompt10:22 – Understanding the difference between prompts and templates12:59 – Encouragement to just start talking to your AI assistantIf you found this episode helpful, subscribe to the World Innovators YouTube Channel for more practical ideas on B2B marketing and using AI tools effectively.Leave a review to help us spread the word about quality marketing that puts people first.If you need help building your prompt library or training your team, reach out directly to Donna at dpeterson@worldinnovators.com. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

How to Effectively Market High-Value Offers in a Long Sales CycleEpisode Summary:In this episode, Donna Peterson, President of World Innovators, shares practical strategies for marketing offers with longer decision timelines and higher price points.Whether you’re promoting an executive education program, industrial equipment, or a multi-thousand-dollar event registration, Donna explains why relationship-building across multiple touchpoints is essential. The conversation focuses on how to educate prospects in advance, use consistent messaging across email, postal, banner, and phone outreach, and apply AI tools like ChatGPT and Descript to support your efforts.This episode is for leaders who want to create thoughtful campaigns that align with how people actually buy.“Give people the information they’re searching for before they ask — that’s how you earn the meeting and build long-term trust.” – Donna PetersonWhat You'll Learn:Why long sales cycles require an education-first approachHow to structure a multi-channel campaign that builds familiarity and trustWays to use AI tools to increase consistency and save timeThe value of including traditional channels like postal and phoneWhy helpful, relevant messaging leads to stronger engagementEpisode Breakdown:00:00 – Introduction: Understanding long sales cycles00:52 – Clarifying buyer needs and timing01:42 – Marketing strategies that align with how people buy02:32 – Using AI to support marketing and sales efforts04:02 – Leading with education to guide prospects05:38 – Benefits of a multi-channel strategy08:49 – Importance of timing and thoughtful follow-up11:10 – How traditional channels support digital outreach17:36 – Using personal touches to deepen relationships23:34 – Closing thoughts: Focus on relevance and consistencyWant to Discuss Your Approach?If you’d like to talk about your specific offer and what we have seen work, schedule a Complementary 30 minute call with Donna Peterson -https://meetings.hubspot.com/dpeterson/time-to-talk *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

What if you could scale meaningful relationships—without sacrificing authenticity? In this second part of my conversation with Patrick McCullough, President of Hallmark Business Connections, we talk about how B2B companies can use tools like AI and ChatGPT to enhance personalization without losing the heart of what matters: trust, care, and connection.Patrick shares how companies are balancing automation with empathy and gives practical advice for leaders who want to deepen relationships with customers, employees, and partners—even in fast-paced or high-volume environments.We also explore what makes Hallmark's approach so unique: they don't just help brands say the right things—they help them mean it. If you're wondering how to bring more purpose and humanity into your day-to-day business practices, this episode is for you.👉 For more information and to start building deeper connections with customers, vendors, and employees, visit:www.hallmarkbusinessconnections.comwww.worldinnovators.com🎧 And don’t forget to subscribe—so you never miss episodes that help you grow your business the relationship-first way.#B2BMarketing #RelationshipMarketing #AIinB2B #ChatGPTforBusiness #HallmarkBusiness #CustomerExperience #IndustrialMarketing #MarketingWithHeart #HumanConnection #WorldInnovators *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Real Beats Robotic: Why Your Voice and Face Matter More Than Ever-Are you tired of all the AI-generated content flooding your inbox and feed? You’re not alone—and your prospects feel it too.In this episode of the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast, I share why showing your real face and voice in videos and podcasts is one of the most powerful ways to build trust today.If you're an industrial brand or a B2B company trying to stand out, it’s not about saying more—it’s about showing up more authentically.I break down:Why polished, perfect content doesn’t build relationships anymoreHow to get started with videos or podcasts even if you feel uncomfortable on cameraTools (like Descript) that make editing easy without losing your natural toneAnd how to turn one simple video into weeks of quality contentWhether you're a marketing leader or a business owner, this episode will help you rethink content—and give you a simple plan to build real connections with your audience.Episode Breakdown:• 00:00 Introduction: The Shift from Content to Trust• 00:58 The Evolution of Marketing Strategies• 02:36 The Power of Podcasting and Videos• 03:25 Overcoming Barriers to Creating Content• 04:34 Building Authentic Relationships Through Video• 05:14 The Role of AI in Modern Marketing• 07:58 Getting Started with Podcasts and Videos• 14:21 Repurposing Content for Maximum Impact• 21:14 Conclusion: Embracing Realness in MarketingWhat You’ll Walk Away With:• The #1 mindset shift industrial companies need to build trust today• A low-pressure way to get started with podcasts and videos• How to stop overthinking and start connecting• The secret to creating less content that delivers more value• A breakdown of how one video = 5+ valuable content piecesReady to grow with quality marketing?If this episode sparked an idea or helped you take that first step, I’d love your support:Subscribe to our YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@WorldInnovators* Leave a quick review or comment* Share this with one colleague or client who needs to hear itLet’s help more companies grow with honest, helpful, and human marketing. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Trade shows are full of energy, great conversations, and promising connections — but too often, those leads go cold once the event ends. In this episode, I share a practical 3-step approach to help you turn those moments into momentum.Drawing on real-world experiences and conversations I’ve had with industrial teams, we’ll walk through:How to pre-target the right audience so you're not just showing up — you're showing up prepared.Why onsite storytelling matters more than sales pitches.What it takes to do timely, personalized follow-up that actually moves the relationship forward.I’ll also show you how tools like ChatGPT can help you and your team streamline these steps, making the post-show process faster, more consistent, and more human. Whether you're a solo marketer or part of a lean sales team, this episode will give you ideas you can use right away.Episode Breakdown:00:00 – The Trade Show Follow-Up Dilemma01:49 – Step 1: Audience Pre-Targeting05:06 – Step 2: Onsite Storytelling10:06 – Step 3: Post-Event Follow-Up11:03 – Leveraging AI for Effective Follow-Up15:51 – The Importance of Timely Follow-Up17:39 – Final Thoughts and Real-Life ExampleIf you’d like help setting up your own AI follow-up strategy, I offer 1:1 sessions and team training that’s tailored to your goals. Let’s make your next trade show your most productive one yet.* Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-peterson-world-innovators* Visit World Innovators: https://www.worldinnovators.com*** Watch on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@WorldInnovatorsAnd don’t forget to hit subscribe to stay inspired and make your marketing more meaningful.I’m thrilled to be speaking at FABTECH 2025, September 8–11 in Chicago!This is where the brightest minds in manufacturing come together. Join me for four days of learning, inspiration, and connection.Grab your 20% off conference pass now with code SPEAK20!https://i.snoball.it/p/ksiGQ/s/2 *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

If you think Hallmark is just about greeting cards and holiday movies, think again. In this first of a two-part conversation, I sit down with Patrick McCullough, President of Hallmark Business Connections, to explore how over 110 years of creating emotional connection can teach B2B brands how to build stronger, more meaningful relationships—with customers, employees, and even themselves.Patrick brings years of experience helping companies foster loyalty and purpose by focusing on what really matters: relationships. You’ll hear about how trust is built over time, why meaningful interactions at work make life more fulfilling, and what B2B leaders can do today to create a culture of connection.In a world where people are tired of being treated like transactions, this episode offers real, actionable steps on how to lead with care, create trust, and build loyalty that lasts. Whether you're a marketer, a sales leader, or an executive trying to shape a more human-centered culture—there’s something in here for you.We all can learn from Hallmark.👉 Subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2 next week—where we’ll dive even deeper into how emotional connection drives real business results.For more information, visit: www.worldinnovators.comwww.hallmarkbusinessconnections.com#B2BMarketing #RelationshipMarketing #HallmarkBusiness #B2BLeadership #HumanConnection #MarketingWithHeart #IndustrialMarketing #WorldInnovators #MarketingStrategy *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

In this episode, we walk through practical ways manufacturing companies can generate and nurture more leads. If your team isn’t seeing enough opportunities coming in, it might be time to revisit your approach.You’ll hear how to:• Identify the right audience based on your best customers• Increase visibility using trusted industry-specific channels• Improve lead capture on your website with clear messaging and helpful resources• Build relationships with consistent, value-based content• Leverage tools like ChatGPT to maintain consistency and stay visible, even with a lean teamWhether you're just getting started or refining your efforts, these strategies can help your brand show up in the right places and speak to the right people.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Personal Update00:33 The Importance of Leads01:12 Identifying the Right Audience02:47 Increasing Visibility07:35 Improving Lead Capturing on Your Website09:57 Building Relationships13:08 Leveraging AI Tools for Consistency15:15 Conclusion and RecapIf you found this episode helpful, please subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence Podcast and leave a rating so others can find it too.Visit our YouTube channel for practical How-To videos, and explore our website at https://www.worldinnovators.com for more actionable steps to help you reach your goals.We're here to inspire success in everyone around us. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.

Real Ways I Used ChatGPT to Save Time & Stay Sharp-On my morning walk this week, I looked up the hill and stopped in my tracks — there was a bear. No warning, just a moment that forced me to change direction. And that’s exactly what business can feel like today. Things shift quickly, and we need to be ready to pivot.That moment reminded me just how valuable a tool like ChatGPT can be — not for flashy gimmicks, but for real, day-to-day support. In this episode, I share exactly how I used ChatGPT over the past week to stay sharp, save time, and better support clients.You’ll hear how I used ChatGPT to:• Research prospects and uncover insights that led to more personalized outreach• Compare LMS platforms to guide a client’s decision• Refine an article for an industry publication to sound more helpful, not salesy• Align branding visuals and promotions for a consistent message• Explore topics like stem cell therapy to stay informed and sharp3 Actionable Steps to Try This Week: Use it for research: Ask ChatGPT to break down a company, audience, or trend in plain English. Test it on something small: Try rewriting one email or LinkedIn post — you’ll be surprised how much time it saves. Build it into your prep routine: Whether you’re heading into a meeting or presentation, let ChatGPT help you get clear and confident.At World Innovators, we believe in sharing what actually works — not what sounds trendy. If you're ready to explore how AI can work in your world, subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast so you don’t miss an episode.We also invite you to:Check out our YouTube Channel for step-by-step how-to videosVisit our website for more tactical tips and ideasOr email me directly at dpeterson@worldinnovators.com — if you’ve discovered a new way to use ChatGPT, I’d love to feature it!Let’s learn together and help each other succeed — one smart strategy at a time. *** Reach out to dpeterson@worldinnovators.comif you’d like help building a marketing strategy that builds relationships and/or AI training for individuals or full teams. *** Visit www.worldinnovators.comfor more resources on building stronger marketing and leadership strategies. *** Subscribe to the B2B Marketing Excellence & AI Podcast for weekly insights into marketing, leadership, and the future of AI.