The Paradox Of Being Yourself In An AI World

In the latest episode of "Talking About Marketing" with Steve Davis and David Olney, we explore the intersection of art, leadership, and AI in the modern business world. Our special guest, David Gauci, a veteran in the theatre scene and founder of Davine Productions, shares insights on finding one's unique voice in the performing arts and beyond. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking to carve out a distinctive identity in today's crowded digital landscape.

The episode delves into "Paradoxical Leadership" from Ivo Brughmans' book, offering a critical perspective on leadership principles that can be applied in business. While acknowledging the book's insights, David Olney provides a nuanced critique, emphasizing the importance of context in understanding these concepts.

A particularly engaging segment discusses the role of AI in our lives. As we increasingly turn to AI for advice and decision-making, Steve and David ponder the implications for our humanity and professional judgment. This conversation is essential for leaders and small business owners navigating the evolving landscape of AI and technology.

Finally, the episode wraps up with insights from the Sandler Selling System, providing practical tips on integrating these sales strategies into your business and personal growth. The episode is a blend of thought-provoking discussions and actionable advice, perfect for those looking to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world. Don't miss this insightful journey into creativity, leadership, and the role of AI in modern business.

Get ready to take notes!

Talking About Marketing podcast episode notes with timecodes

01:29 Person This segment focusses on you, the person, because we believe business is personal.
Be Your Quirky Self

In 2013, the same year Steve began his award-winning podcast, The Adelaide Show, David Gauci put his roots down in Adelaide and started the theatre company, Davine Productions. Prior to this and alongside this, he has had a 25+ year career in professional theatre, as well as being a teacher to countless performers in a number of colleges and institutions including the University of Adelaide Elder Conservatorium.

In a recent interview with David, Steve asked about the guidance David gives new musical theatre actors about how to find their voice and his answer is useful to all of us.

In the conversation that ensues between Steve and David Olney, our David makes the point that in this social media age where people mouth slogans like "be yourself" and "be authentic online", it's important to remember that it is rarely appropriate for us to ever be fully ourselves in all social interactions.

You can hear Steve's full interview with David Gauci here: 385 – Davine Intervention In Adelaide Theatre.

08:28 Principles This segment focusses principles you can apply in your business today.
Paradoxical Leadership

David just finished listening to the book, Paradoxical Leadership: How to Make Complexity an Advantage, by Ivo Brughmans.

Unlike every other book we've discussed on Talking About Marketing, this is one that David does not heartily recommend, despite conceding that it does raise awareness of some important principles.

As you'll hear in the discussion, David thinks the concepts in this book are good but the way the ideas are expressed is suboptimal. Listen to the podcast for more context.

15:30 Problems This segment answers questions we've re