Best Kim Bode Podcasts (2025)

1
Your Data Team Is Failing You, AI Still Isn’t Driving Revenue 1:02:05

9h ago1:02:05

1:02:05

AI is everywhere—except in your results. In this brutally honest episode of Brand in the Making, CTO and AI strategist Alex Mead unpacks the real reason most organizations fail to turn data and AI into business outcomes: they’re optimizing for dashboards, not decisions. If your company has a “data strategy” but no lift in revenue, this episode will…

1
80% of AI Projects Will Fail And How to Change That 46:45

7d ago46:45

46:45

Everyone’s talking about AI—but almost no one is implementing it well. In this brutally honest episode of Brand in the Making, we sit down with Ian Miller, founder of AI consultancy FittedCloud and former AWS AI lead, to unpack why most enterprise AI projects crash and burn—and what smart teams do differently. From tech stack disasters to leadershi…

1
AI Agents Exposed: How They’ll Rewire Your Work! with Brian McKeiver 41:17

14d ago41:17

41:17

Brian McKeiver, co-owner of BizStream, joins AI Lab Unfiltered to talk about how his team is using AI to enhance software development, streamline client collaboration, and rethink internal workflows. From battling AI skepticism to using GPTs to simplify dev processes, Brian breaks down what’s actually working—and what still feels like hype. He also…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #112: The Robots are Coming for Me 9:16

15d ago9:16

9:16

To AI or not to AI. Are we using it, just to say we're using it? Is it actually helping or hurting? We tackle these hard hitting questions and dig into why Kim threatened ChatGPT with bodily harm.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Is AI Making us Dumber? 44:47

21d ago44:47

44:47

Alex Mead, co-creator of Redmaq, joins AI Lab Unfiltered to talk about solving one of the biggest headaches in architecture—disorganized communication. From buried meeting notes to scattered feedback, Alex explains how Redmaq uses AI to turn chaos into clarity, helping architects spend less time managing and more time designing. He also shares the …

1
Happy Hour Hustle #111: How to Get the Internship 19:04

22d ago19:04

19:04

We get asked this question a lot: What does it take to land the internship? We know it's competitive and overwhelming. But if you're willing to put the work in, businesses will reward you for that. And your dream job probably already told you what they're looking for. In this episode, Maddie talks with former 8THIRTYFOUR Associate (because interns …

1
Turning Shareholders into Superfans with AI – Walter Ward III 31:29

28d ago31:29

31:29

Walter Ward III, co-founder of TiiCKER, joins the AI Lab Unfiltered podcast to share how he’s building a fintech startup that lets everyday investors unlock perks—just for owning stock. Think free Häagen-Dazs for holding shares or a discount on the Stars app if you’re a Lionsgate investor. Walter also reveals how AI powers the platform behind the s…

1
How AI Personas Will Reshape Product Design, Teams & Workflows 48:30

1M ago48:30

48:30

In this episode of AI Lab Unfiltered, hosts Drew and Pete engage with Ben Jocks from Mutually Human to explore the evolving landscape of AI personas. They discuss the integration of generative AI tools in software development, the importance of collaboration and competition in AI applications, and the potential for AI to enhance social interactions…

1
We Replaced Our Cold Callers With AI. Here's What Happened. 49:51

1M ago49:51

49:51

In this conversation, John Butler from Echo X discusses the evolution of AI tools, particularly focusing on content creation and property management solutions. He shares his personal journey of overcoming discomfort with video through AI avatars and highlights the development of AI scheduling tools. The discussion also touches on regulatory challen…

1
Why AI Will Never Replace Us with Kim Bode 54:50

2M ago54:50

54:50

In this episode of the AI Lab Unfiltered podcast, host and guest Kim Bode discuss the integration of AI in public relations, focusing on its applications, challenges, and the importance of training AI models to align with brand voice. They explore various AI tools, the necessity of responsible AI usage in education, and the evolving landscape of AI…

1
Unlocking Emotional Intelligence in AI with Craig Tucker 48:56

2M ago48:56

48:56

In this episode of the AI Lab Unfiltered podcast, Craig Tucker, CEO of Vern AI, discusses the origins and development of Vern AI, a technology designed to enhance emotional intelligence in AI applications. The conversation explores the complexities of human emotions, the limitations of current sentiment analysis models, and the innovative approache…

1
People Are Getting Attached to AI Friends — Here’s Why 53:39

2M ago53:39

53:39

In this conversation, Dan Hungerford, founder of EverFriends AI, discusses the intersection of AI and emotional intelligence, particularly in the context of elderly care. He shares his journey from a background in psychology to developing a mobile app that provides companionship through digital humans. The app aims to alleviate feelings of isolatio…

1
Can AI Market Ethically? 41:37

2M ago41:37

41:37

In this episode of the AI Lab Unfiltered Podcast, the conversation revolves around the practical applications of AI in education and marketing. Rachel Hammond, an associate professor, shares her insights on how AI is transforming higher education, the challenges of integrating AI into curricula, and the ethical considerations that come with its use…

1
GIS Director Reveals How SPACE LASERS Map the Ocean 40:44

3M ago40:44

40:44

In this episode of the AI Lab Unfiltered podcast, Graham Timoney from Blue Carbon International discusses the intersection of AI and environmental conservation. He shares his journey from mapping the ocean to utilizing advanced technologies like remote sensing and machine learning to monitor and protect vital ecosystems, particularly seagrass. The …

1
Happy Hour Hustle #110: Mark Peters and The SOURCE 45:45

3M ago45:45

45:45

When lawmakers become disconnected from real community needs, it often falls to visionary business leaders to create practical solutions. That's exactly what Mark Peters, CEO of Butterball Farms, did when he established The SOURCE 20 years ago in Grand Rapids. Kim got the chance to sit down with Mark to talk about the nonprofit, which began as a ma…

1
The BIGGEST Problem with AI Agents in 2025 with Alex Mead 53:23

3M ago53:23

53:23

In this episode of AI Lab Unfiltered, hosts Drew and Pete discuss the latest advancements in AI with their guest, Alex Mead. The conversation covers the implications of AI reasoning, the significance of the chain of thought concept, and the potential concerns regarding data privacy when using AI models. The episode also explores the accessibility o…

1
Embracing AI The Future of Business Innovation and AI Policies With Pete Terryn and Drew Veach 17:37

3M ago17:37

17:37

In this episode, the hosts discuss the origins and mission of the West Michigan AI Lab, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in AI. They explore the concerns surrounding AI adoption in businesses, the necessity of implementing AI policies, and share personal experiences with various AI tools. The conversation highlights the value of l…

1
How Women are Driving AI Innovation in 2025 with Elizabeth Goede 49:44

3M ago49:44

49:44

Use code "AILab30" for 30% off your registration for the AI in Action Conference. https://aiinactionconference.com/home?am_id=AILabPodcast In this engaging conversation, Elizabeth Godey shares her journey into the world of artificial intelligence, highlighting the importance of women's representation in the tech industry. The discussion covers the …

1
How is AI Advancing Education For Better or Worse with Charles “Charlie” Elwood 51:32

4M ago51:32

51:32

In this episode of AI Lab Unfiltered, the conversation explores the intersection of AI and education, featuring insights from Charlie Elwood, a Microsoft AI MVP. The discussion covers Charlie's journey into AI, the real-world applications of AI in educational settings, the importance of personalization in learning, ethical considerations surroundin…

1
How Chat-GPT is Rewriting the Rules of Software Engineering With Josh Barker CEO of City Innovations 1:00:36

4M ago1:00:36

1:00:36

In this conversation, the Pete and Drew explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and digital product innovation with Josh Barker. They discuss the journey from engineering to entrepreneurship, the challenges of integrating AI into human interactions, and the transformative potential of AI in business processes. The conversation highlight…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #109: What You Need to Know About ESTA 29:22

5M ago29:22

29:22

The Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) has been a huge focus (and problem) for Michigan business owners as they work to ensure they are compliant with the new law by February 21. But with uncertainty and changes still happening with ESTA by the minute, a lot of business owners have more questions than answers. To help, we brought in an expert. Lisa Cooper…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #108: Staying on Track in the New Year 19:15

5M ago19:15

19:15

How is it already mid-way through January?! Maddie and Ashley sit down to talk about planning for 2025 (hopefully you already got started). They discuss the dos and don'ts of keeping everyone on track and why project management systems can be key to success.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #107: Managing Across Generations 21:26

6M ago21:26

21:26

From Gen X to Gen Z, there has been a lot of conversation in recent years about how to best manage multigenerational workplaces. We brought in Jennifer Maxson, of Jennifer Maxson & Associates, to talk about strategies to approach different generations, the differences she's seen in her training, and what we all have in common.…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #106: A Closer Look at the Caregiver Crisis 34:35

7M ago34:35

34:35

Rosalynn Carter famously said: “There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers." That's what this episode is all about. We are currently facing a growing caregiver crisis - with more and more families filling this …

1
Happy Hour Hustle #105: Let's Talk Graphic Design 23:04

7M ago23:04

23:04

We are excited to introduce you to our incredible graphic designer Hannah Cline - who makes all of our shit look good. Hannah and Maddie talk about agency life, how she comes up with designs, and the next big thing in the industry.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #104: The Economic Argument for Inclusivity 40:05

8M ago40:05

40:05

We are back this week with part two of our conversation with Jen VanSkiver of Special Olympics Michigan - this time, making the economic case for inclusion in the workforce and beyond. Jen, Kim and Maddie talk about some of the startling statistics behind the issue, how people with disabilities are currently treated as they look to enter the work f…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #103: Inclusivity in Hiring 24:17

8M ago24:17

24:17

When it comes to inclusivity, it's so important we do more than just talking. That's why Kim and Maddie sat down with Jen VanSkiver of Special Olympics Michigan. The nonprofit is changing the game in inclusivity and empowering athletes far beyond sports. In part one of their conversation, Jen dives into her journey as a parent of a child with a cog…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #102: Why Showing Up Matters 26:53

9M ago26:53

26:53

We are deep in the heart of event season right now, which is both a fun and crazy time for 8THIRTYFOUR. As we head out on yet another flight, Kim and Maddie sit down to talk about the importance of showing up - and why it's one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your business.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #101: How to Work with Freelancers 14:30

9M ago14:30

14:30

At 8THIRTYFOUR, we are lucky to have an incredible network of freelancers and contractors we work with to get the job done. But how do you best work with someone who isn't on your staff full-time? Maddie sat down with Jenna Brooks, a freelancer and Graphic Design BA from Calvin University, to talk about how she manages those relationships, her clie…

1
Episode #100: Women in the Workforce 22:11

10M ago22:11

22:11

As a woman-owned business, we put a lot of stake in supporting other women as they work to grow their careers. This week on Happy Hour Hustle, we sit down with Shannon Burkel and Kaitlyn Olson of Axios HR to talk about women in leadership, the importance of mentorship, and so so much more.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #99: Why the Corporate Transparency Act is Bad Business 33:00

10M ago33:00

33:00

Small businesses already deal with enough, and now this. The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) forces small businesses to provide their personal information to the federal government or face fines and even imprisonment if they don't. We've written about it before, but there is still a lot at stake. That's why Kim brought in Kelli Saunders, Vice Pres…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #98: The Changing World of Local Media 13:08

11M ago13:08

13:08

It's no secret that the local news world has been changing, from how journalists connect with the community to how they combat misinformation online (which is no easy task). Maddie and Alayna are once again joined by Lauren Kummer, a reporter and anchor at FOX 17, to talk about how her station and other local reporters are working through the chang…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #97: Ask An Olympic Athlete 20:40

11M ago20:40

20:40

Happy Olympics, Hustlers! This week we got the chance to talk to real-life Olympian, Ben Jefferies, and his coach, Scott Barnes. We asked them about what it takes to get to that level, what they are looking forward to the most, and advice for anybody else who wants to compete on the world's largest stage.…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #96: Pitching to the Media 9:24

11M ago9:24

9:24

Maddie and Alayna sit down with Lauren Kummer, a reporter and anchor at FOX 17 in West Michigan, to talk about all the do's, don'ts and the definitely don'ts of pitching. Lauren gives advice to PR pros on how they can best grab the attention of a TV journalist. They also discuss the importance of relationships when dealing with reporters.…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #95: Renee Bauer 26:32

1+ y ago26:32

26:32

Kim and Maddie sit down with Renee Bauer, author of She Who Wins and owner of Happy Even After Family Law. They talk about leadership, strength and what it takes to ditch your inner 'good girl.'By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #94: What's New in Digital Marketing 31:47

1+ y ago31:47

31:47

Are you up to date with Google's latest rollout? How is your business using AI? Did you hear what LinkedIn is doing now? The digital team at 8THIRTYFOUR walks through the latest in the Digital Marketing space.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #93: Let's Talk Crisis Management 30:58

1+ y ago30:58

30:58

Big or small, every company faces a crisis at some point. How you handle it could mean the difference between irreparable reputation damage and moving forward. Kim and Maddie talk about what it takes to manage a crisis, who's done it well and the importance of making a plan.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #92: Inside Influencer Marketing (Part 2) 20:41

1+ y ago20:41

20:41

We just could not get enough of our conversation Aly Zuiderveen and Chelsea Sinke, known by their usernames @helloalymay and @mygrandrapidslife. Hear what these Grand Rapids influencers had to say about their red and green flags, and where they think the influencer marketing industry is headed.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #91: Inside Influencer Marketing (Part 1) 30:33

1+ y ago30:33

30:33

Is anything moving faster than the influencer world? Probably not. We sat down with Aly Zuiderveen and Chelsea Sinke, known by their usernames @helloalymay and @mygrandrapidslife, for a look behind the curtains. Hear what they had to say about what marketers are doing right, what they're doing wrong, and much more in Part 1 of our deep dive into In…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #90: Small Business Spotlight 15:19

1+ y ago15:19

15:19

Here at 8THIRTYFOUR, we are all about supporting other small businesses. Because let's face it, we're badass. Ahead of Small Business Saturday, we talked to two small business owners here in Michigan (who happen to also be our incredible clients). Amy Sparks, president of Goldie, and Kelly Stroburg, publisher of nearlywed, share their stories of ho…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #89: How to Overcome Burnout 17:03

1+ y ago17:03

17:03

Burnout has become a bit of a buzzword since the pandemic, but what is it really? Why do more women experience it? What can we do to overcome it? Dr. Dominique Pritchett, a nationally recognized mental wellness strategist and keynote speaker at this year's Inforum Capstone Dinner, joined us to talk about how to break the cycle.…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #88: How a Government Shutdown Impacts Small Businesses 27:03

1+ y ago27:03

27:03

Federal employees are not the only ones hurt by a government shutdown. Small businesses and government contractors are also forced to reevaluate when our lawmakers can't agree on a budget. Kim talks with Sue Tellier, the CEO of JetCo Federal, about how the looming shutdown is already impacting small businesses and what we can do about it.…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #87: Power of Female Rage 15:34

1+ y ago15:34

15:34

It's a core belief here at 8THIRTYFOUR... the future is female. And women are definitely having a moment. From our changing representation in the media to female stars taking over the world (looking at you Taylor), we're talking about the power of women and the power of female rage. If you want to read more, make sure to check out our blog.…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #86: A Guide to Summer in GR 8:48

2y ago8:48

8:48

If you didn't already know, the 8THIRTYFOUR team loves a good drink... and patio... and rooftop... aaand the list goes on. In this episode, Derek, Emma, and Savannah sit down to chat about their favorite places to crack open a cold one and enjoy all the summer vibes. So, what do you say? Grab a drink and join us! If you want more recommendations, c…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #85: SEO for Dummies 29:56

2y ago29:56

29:56

When people mention SEO do you find your brain empty? We can help with that. Emma sits down with Rowan, one of 8THIRTYFOUR's Account Managers and Knower of All Things, to discuss the basics of SEO... and a little bit more. From site ranking to keywords, we're covering all the bases. If you're still looking for more SEO knowledge after this episode,…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #84: Keeping Up with Social Media Trends 27:13

2+ y ago27:13

27:13

Remember when we had to remind people not to eat Tide Pods? What about Chris Pine's iconic stare during the Don't Worry Darling press tour? Well, lucky for you, the 8THIRTYFOUR team sat down to chat about all things social media trends, our favorites, plus some random tangents along the way. If you're looking for more social media insights & tips, …

1
Happy Hour Hustle #83: Bringing Communications to a Crisis 22:39

2+ y ago22:39

22:39

You shouldn't wait for a crisis to happen before you have a crisis communications plan. That's why we're here to chat through every step. Simplified, it's all about OAF. Own it, apologize, fix it. Obviously, there are other details, but we'll let you listen in for the extra advice. Need some reading material on the subject? We've got that covered t…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #82: How to Make the Media Love You 26:56

2+ y ago26:56

26:56

We're talking about one of our favorite things — PR. The relationship between a journalist and a PR pro is an important one, so the team is breaking down what it means to be authentic, why pitching is hard work, and some of our favorite journalist stories. So, want to make the media love you? Get listening. And, as we promised, you can find some PR…

1
Happy Hour Hustle #81: Anti-Resolutions and Getting Real 28:58

2+ y ago28:58

28:58

Kim sits down with Emma and Amberly to talk all about anti-resolutions for 2023. Plus, there's some margarita and chicken sandwich talk too — We love to keep you guessing. If you love this episode and want more of our insights on why resolutions aren't the move, check out our blog.By 8THIRTYFOUR

1
Happy Hour Hustle #80: Spilling the Tea on Women-Owned Businesses 30:54

2+ y ago30:54

30:54

We have a lot to say... especially about women-owned businesses. Kim chats with Jeffrey, 8THIRTYFOUR's Lead Graphic Designer, about what working for a women-owned business really looks like. So, grab a drink and get listening.By 8THIRTYFOUR

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