Episode Summary: "If You Don’t Understand AI Yet, You’re Already Falling Behind | GaryVee Rightworks Keynote"

Podcast: The GaryVee Audio Experience
Host: Gary Vaynerchuk
Guest Speaker: Carl [Last Name Not Provided]
Release Date: May 27, 2025

Introduction

In this insightful episode of The GaryVee Audio Experience, Gary Vaynerchuk hosts a keynote session featuring Carl, an accomplished entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience running a service business that has impressively scaled to $350 million in revenue. The conversation primarily revolves around two pivotal themes: Social Media Marketing and Artificial Intelligence (AI). The discussion offers a pragmatic framework for business owners aiming to thrive amidst the rapidly evolving digital landscape of 2025.

The Power and Misuse of Social Media Marketing

Carl begins by emphasizing the undervalued potential of social media marketing. He illustrates this with a compelling example:

"If this room was making one or two videos a day on their phone in their hotel room right now about insights or thoughts they have that impact their customers... and then took $50 and ran ads in the five-mile radius of his office for that video. There is a stunning percentage likelihood that Carl would pick up a customer today." [02:15]

Carl highlights that despite the proven efficacy of social media strategies, most businesses fail to harness their full potential due to naivety and poor execution. He challenges the audience to reconsider their reluctance:

"If it didn't work, it means you didn't do a good job at it." [05:45]

He draws parallels with historic marketing shifts, citing how pioneers like Coca-Cola and Procter & Gamble capitalized on new media channels like radio and television to outpace competitors. The underlying message is clear: embracing current digital platforms is crucial for acquiring new customers and staying competitive.

The Transition from Traditional to Digital Marketing

Carl critiques the overreliance on traditional marketing methods such as word-of-mouth and local reputation, warning that businesses may be outflanked by more digitally savvy competitors. He underscores the importance of consistent and strategic social media presence:

"I believe that every business in this room should be posting two times a day, minimally on these platforms to get employees and to get customers." [07:00]

Monica, the co-host, raises a pertinent issue regarding authenticity in social media postings, especially when striving to attract both clients and potential employees. Carl responds by advocating for genuine, consistent engagement:

"Humans will always buy from humans when they trust." [06:43]

He encourages business owners to overcome insecurities about being on camera, stressing that authenticity drives trust and customer loyalty.

The Rise and Impact of AI on Business

Transitioning to AI, Carl declares it as "the biggest technology shift that we've faced since the Internet itself." [13:19] He elaborates on how AI is revolutionizing industries, particularly accounting and service sectors, by automating tasks that were traditionally labor-intensive.

Carl stresses the urgency for businesses to adapt to AI technologies or risk obsolescence:

"Adapt or die. I prefer not to die in business. It's a bad outcome." [12:01]

He predicts the diminishing relevance of platforms like Google AdWords in the face of AI-driven search engines like ChatGPT, likening their future to the outdated Yellow Pages.

Moreover, Carl highlights the dual impact of AI on employee acquisition and operational efficiency, suggesting that AI can alleviate staffing challenges by streamlining tasks and enhancing productivity.

Building a Culture of Innovation and Trust

Addressing internal business dynamics, Carl emphasizes the importance of building a strong organizational culture centered around trust and employee engagement. Drawing from his personal experiences, he advocates for regular one-on-one meetings and genuine care for employee needs as foundational to retention and morale:

"The thesis that has built every one of my businesses, which is I work for them, they don't work for me." [34:06]

Carl shares a poignant anecdote from his youth in the Soviet Union, contrasting his father's oppressive management style with his commitment to becoming the "best boss of all time." This commitment underscores his belief that understanding and addressing employee aspirations is critical in fostering a loyal and motivated workforce.

Practical Recommendations for Businesses

Throughout the keynote, Carl provides actionable strategies for businesses to leverage both social media and AI effectively:

1. Daily Social Media Engagement: Commit to posting consistently, at least twice a day, to maintain visibility and attract both customers and talent.

2. Localized Advertising: Invest small amounts (e.g., $50) in targeted ads to amplify organic social media content within specific geographic areas.

3. Embrace AI Tools: Dedicate time daily to learn and implement AI technologies to enhance operational efficiency and stay ahead of competitors.

4. Foster Authenticity: Encourage employees to present their genuine selves on social platforms to build trust with the audience.

5. Cultivate Organizational Culture: Prioritize regular interactions with employees to understand and cater to their evolving needs, thereby boosting retention.

Final Insights

Carl concludes by challenging the audience to overcome complacency and embrace the technological advancements shaping the future of business. He draws a stark contrast between those willing to adapt versus those who cling to outdated methods, urging a proactive stance:

"If you're not on these channels, you're allowed to decide. But the world's changing." [10:22]

Additionally, addressing the psychological impact of social media, Carl debunks the myth that algorithms alter personal identities, asserting that they merely reflect existing behaviors and preferences:

"Your news feed, your algorithm is actually exposing who you actually are, not changing who you are." [26:21]

He wraps up with an empowering message, encouraging business owners to seize the unprecedented opportunities offered by AI and social media to drive growth and innovation.

Conclusion

This episode serves as a compelling call to action for business leaders to embrace digital transformation through effective social media marketing and the strategic implementation of AI. Carl's insights, backed by personal experiences and industry knowledge, provide a roadmap for businesses aiming to navigate and thrive in the dynamic landscape of 2025.

Notable Quotes:

• "This is the biggest technology shift that we've faced since the Internet itself." – Carl [13:19]

• "Trust over task should sit as a sign above everybody's computer screen." – Carl [16:53]

• "Why are you being lazy now? You judge people being lazy and things that come easy to you." – Carl [25:17]

• "Your news feed, your algorithm is actually exposing who you actually are, not changing who you are." – Carl [26:21]

• "If you're not on these channels, you're allowed to decide. But the world's changing." – Carl [10:22]

Key Takeaways:

• Social Media Marketing remains a powerful tool for customer and employee acquisition, but requires consistent and authentic engagement.

• Artificial Intelligence is transforming industries by automating tasks and redefining operational efficiencies. Early adoption is crucial.

• Organizational Culture built on trust and employee engagement is essential for retention and long-term success.

• Adaptability and Continuous Learning are indispensable for businesses to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.