Depending on your disposition for integrating technology into your work day, you believe AI is either a tool for increased efficiency and productivity. Or it presents challenges such as job displacement, the potential for bias and misinformation, and other ethical concerns. 

By the way, AI wrote that, which might foretell the end of my career as a writer and radio host. My two lunch guests today potentially worry about the future of their jobs too.

Taylor Bennett is the founder & CEO of Mesh, an integrated advertising agency specializing in brand strategy, creative, web and digital marketing. For more than 20 years, Mesh has worked with local businesses such as Baton Rouge General and Visit Baton Rouge, as well as providing pro bono work for the Manship Theatre, Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Foundation, Ducks Unlimited and Jefferson United Methodist Church. In 2021, Mesh received the Best in Show Overall at the annual American Advertising Awards, also known as the Addy Awards.

Max Zoghbi launched his career in cinematography with a daring adventure: together with his two best friends, Max traveled the entire 2,300 miles of the Mississippi River over 61 days in a kayak, documenting the journey through photos and video.

After returning home, Max began picking up small video gigs—weddings, a commercial for a friend’s dad’s business—while working to break into the film and commercial industry.  In 2011, Max founded Loupe Theory, providing direct production and agency work for Tostitos, Keller Williams, Cisco, NBA, Smoothie King, Lamar, Abercrombie & Fitch among others.

Not since the introduction of the personal computer has technology influenced the workplace like AI seems poised to do. Whether you believe AI is an existential threat to the creative class or makes design work more efficient, it’s fair to say AI is here to stay.

Max Zoghbi and Taylor Bennett are business people working in creative fields, both navigating a rapidly changing workplace. Yet, as with any business, flexibility, adaptation, and innovation have and will be the markers of their continued success.  

Out to Lunch is recorded live over lunch at Mansurs on the Boulevard. You can find photos from this show by  Ian Ledo and Miranda Albarez at itsbatonrouge.la.

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