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    <title>CX without the BS - Episodes Tagged with “Customer Experience Technology”</title>
    <link>https://cswithoutthebs.fireside.fm/tags/customer%20experience%20technology</link>
    <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
    <description>Most CX podcasts are built for Fortune 500 buyers with seven-figure budgets and dedicated transformation teams... This one isn't. CX Without the BS is for the technology advisors, IT leaders, and business owners working in the trenches of SMB and mid-market companies - the "forgotten 5000" who get pitched enterprise solutions they can't afford and ignored by vendors who don't think they're worth the support call. Host Brian Nichols brings real practitioner perspective from the unified communications and contact center space. No guru theater. No vendor hype. No recycled LinkedIn thought leadership dressed up as expertise. Just the actual conversations advisors and buyers need to be having... about why CX deployments fail, where vendors quietly cut corners, which product categories are oversold, and what questions you should be asking before you sign a three-year contract. Each episode pulls from real customer scenarios, market situations, and the framework laid out in Brian's book, The CX Compass. Some episodes are solo deep dives. Others bring in practitioners, advisors, and operators who can break down the mechanics of what actually works - and what's quietly broken behind the demo. If you're tired of buzzword bingo and ready for the version of CX nobody's willing to say out loud... you're in the right place. Subscribe, share it with an advisor or buyer who needs it, and let's cut through the noise together.</description>
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    <itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type>
    <itunes:subtitle>Honest takes on customer experience and UCaaS for the SMB and mid-market buyers enterprise vendors forgot... hosted by Brian Nichols.</itunes:subtitle>
    <itunes:author>Brian Nichols</itunes:author>
    <itunes:summary>Most CX podcasts are built for Fortune 500 buyers with seven-figure budgets and dedicated transformation teams... This one isn't. CX Without the BS is for the technology advisors, IT leaders, and business owners working in the trenches of SMB and mid-market companies - the "forgotten 5000" who get pitched enterprise solutions they can't afford and ignored by vendors who don't think they're worth the support call. Host Brian Nichols brings real practitioner perspective from the unified communications and contact center space. No guru theater. No vendor hype. No recycled LinkedIn thought leadership dressed up as expertise. Just the actual conversations advisors and buyers need to be having... about why CX deployments fail, where vendors quietly cut corners, which product categories are oversold, and what questions you should be asking before you sign a three-year contract. Each episode pulls from real customer scenarios, market situations, and the framework laid out in Brian's book, The CX Compass. Some episodes are solo deep dives. Others bring in practitioners, advisors, and operators who can break down the mechanics of what actually works - and what's quietly broken behind the demo. If you're tired of buzzword bingo and ready for the version of CX nobody's willing to say out loud... you're in the right place. Subscribe, share it with an advisor or buyer who needs it, and let's cut through the noise together.</itunes:summary>
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    <itunes:keywords>CX podcast, customer experience, UCaaS, CCaaS, contact center, unified communications, technology advisors, channel partners, TSD, SMB technology, mid-market IT, vendor evaluation, CX strategy, customer service technology, Brian Nichols, CX Compass, business communications, cloud communications, customer engagement, sales enablement, B2B technology buying, IT decision makers, Telarus, agent experience, omnichannel</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:owner>
      <itunes:name>Brian Nichols</itunes:name>
      <itunes:email>brian@briannicholsconsulting.com</itunes:email>
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  <title>Can Small Businesses Really Use AI? | 5 Ways AI Can Help Your Small Business TODAY</title>
  <link>https://cswithoutthebs.fireside.fm/can-small-businesses-really-use-ai-5-ways-ai-can-help-your-small-business-today</link>
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  <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Brian Nichols</author>
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  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Brian Nichols</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>AI expert Jason Lowe reveals how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing customer experience, offering unprecedented opportunities for businesses of all sizes while simultaneously posing potential risks that demand careful consideration and regulation.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>59:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
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  <description>&lt;p&gt;Is AI the ultimate game-changer for CX, or are we on the brink of a technological apocalypse? In this episode of CX Without the BS, Brian and Tom sit down with Jason Lowe, the original JLo and AI guru, to unpack the jaw-dropping potential and terrifying risks of artificial intelligence in customer experience. From accidental discoveries to potential doomsday scenarios, this conversation will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about AI and its impact on business.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Dive into the shocking statistics that reveal how AI adoption has skyrocketed in just one year, with 79% of companies now implementing AI solutions to keep up with their competitors. But are they truly prepared for the consequences? Jason Lowe, Solution Architect for AI and CX at Telarus, shares his expert insights on the current state of AI in the industry and why small businesses need to wake up to its potential before it's too late.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Prepare to have your mind blown as the trio explores the unexpected origins of everyday inventions and draws parallels to the unpredictable future of AI. From chainsaws originally designed for childbirth to the accidental discovery of GPU processing for AI, this episode will challenge your perceptions and leave you wondering what other innovations might be lurking just around the corner.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the ethical dilemmas and regulatory challenges facing AI development. With autonomous AI agents now capable of hacking websites, the need for effective governance has never been more critical. But can regulations keep pace with the breakneck speed of technological advancement? Jason Lowe offers his unique perspective on the delicate balance between innovation and safety in the AI landscape.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Don't miss this captivating masterclass in AI for CX, packed with eye-opening insights, terrifying possibilities, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a CX professional, or simply curious about the future of technology, this episode of CX Without the BS is guaranteed to leave you both informed and entertained. Tune in now and join the conversation that's shaping the future of customer experience! &lt;/p&gt;
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  <itunes:keywords>AI in customer service, CX innovation, artificial intelligence business, small business AI, AI ROI, customer experience technology, AI chatbots, AI risks and benefits, future of CX, AI regulation, AI ethics, AI adoption trends, AI for SMBs, AI in contact centers, AI industry insights, AI business applications, AI customer satisfaction, AI automation, AI job impact, AI technology advancements</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>Is AI the ultimate game-changer for CX, or are we on the brink of a technological apocalypse? In this episode of CX Without the BS, Brian and Tom sit down with Jason Lowe, the original JLo and AI guru, to unpack the jaw-dropping potential and terrifying risks of artificial intelligence in customer experience. From accidental discoveries to potential doomsday scenarios, this conversation will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about AI and its impact on business.</p>

<p>Dive into the shocking statistics that reveal how AI adoption has skyrocketed in just one year, with 79% of companies now implementing AI solutions to keep up with their competitors. But are they truly prepared for the consequences? Jason Lowe, Solution Architect for AI and CX at Telarus, shares his expert insights on the current state of AI in the industry and why small businesses need to wake up to its potential before it's too late.</p>

<p>Prepare to have your mind blown as the trio explores the unexpected origins of everyday inventions and draws parallels to the unpredictable future of AI. From chainsaws originally designed for childbirth to the accidental discovery of GPU processing for AI, this episode will challenge your perceptions and leave you wondering what other innovations might be lurking just around the corner.</p>

<p>Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the ethical dilemmas and regulatory challenges facing AI development. With autonomous AI agents now capable of hacking websites, the need for effective governance has never been more critical. But can regulations keep pace with the breakneck speed of technological advancement? Jason Lowe offers his unique perspective on the delicate balance between innovation and safety in the AI landscape.</p>

<p>Don't miss this captivating masterclass in AI for CX, packed with eye-opening insights, terrifying possibilities, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a CX professional, or simply curious about the future of technology, this episode of CX Without the BS is guaranteed to leave you both informed and entertained. Tune in now and join the conversation that's shaping the future of customer experience!</p>]]>
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  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>Is AI the ultimate game-changer for CX, or are we on the brink of a technological apocalypse? In this episode of CX Without the BS, Brian and Tom sit down with Jason Lowe, the original JLo and AI guru, to unpack the jaw-dropping potential and terrifying risks of artificial intelligence in customer experience. From accidental discoveries to potential doomsday scenarios, this conversation will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew about AI and its impact on business.</p>

<p>Dive into the shocking statistics that reveal how AI adoption has skyrocketed in just one year, with 79% of companies now implementing AI solutions to keep up with their competitors. But are they truly prepared for the consequences? Jason Lowe, Solution Architect for AI and CX at Telarus, shares his expert insights on the current state of AI in the industry and why small businesses need to wake up to its potential before it's too late.</p>

<p>Prepare to have your mind blown as the trio explores the unexpected origins of everyday inventions and draws parallels to the unpredictable future of AI. From chainsaws originally designed for childbirth to the accidental discovery of GPU processing for AI, this episode will challenge your perceptions and leave you wondering what other innovations might be lurking just around the corner.</p>

<p>Get ready for a rollercoaster ride through the ethical dilemmas and regulatory challenges facing AI development. With autonomous AI agents now capable of hacking websites, the need for effective governance has never been more critical. But can regulations keep pace with the breakneck speed of technological advancement? Jason Lowe offers his unique perspective on the delicate balance between innovation and safety in the AI landscape.</p>

<p>Don't miss this captivating masterclass in AI for CX, packed with eye-opening insights, terrifying possibilities, and a healthy dose of humor. Whether you're an AI enthusiast, a CX professional, or simply curious about the future of technology, this episode of CX Without the BS is guaranteed to leave you both informed and entertained. Tune in now and join the conversation that's shaping the future of customer experience!</p>]]>
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  <title>How to Make Customers LOVE Your Call Center</title>
  <link>https://cswithoutthebs.fireside.fm/how-to-make-customers-love-your-call-center</link>
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  <pubDate>Fri, 14 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0400</pubDate>
  <author>Brian Nichols</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/b6ecde51-9751-4bc2-8830-d814180321a2/d6777bff-8caf-411a-a1aa-e622f682744e.mp3" length="46656605" type="audio/mpeg"/>
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  <itunes:author>Brian Nichols</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Charlie Newark-French, CEO of Sharpen, discusses how practical AI and innovative solutions are transforming the contact center industry to create customer experiences that people love (or at least don't hate as much).
</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>48:36</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>yes</itunes:explicit>
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  <description>&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;&lt;em&gt;Are you tired of the endless marketing fluff and empty promises in the CX industry?&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/strong&gt; Join us for a no-nonsense conversation on "&lt;strong&gt;CX Without the BS&lt;/strong&gt;" as we dive deep into the real issues and solutions in the contact center world. In this episode, Brian Nichols and Tom Milligan sit down with Charlie Newark-French, CEO of SharpenCX, to cut through the noise and get to the heart of what truly matters in customer experience. If you're looking for genuine insights and practical advice, this is the episode you can't afford to miss!&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Charlie Newark-French brings a wealth of experience from his roles in UCaaS, CCaaS, and AI, making him the perfect guest to discuss the future of contact centers. From his early days as a venture capitalist investing in RingCentral to his leadership roles at Fuse and HyperScience, Charlie has seen it all. Now, as the CEO of SharpenCX, he's on a mission to revolutionize the industry with innovative, user-friendly AI solutions tailored for the SMB market. Discover how SharpenCX is setting new standards and why Charlie believes the contact center of tomorrow will be one that people love—or at least don't hate as much.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;In this episode, we tackle the big questions: &lt;strong&gt;_What does the contact center of tomorrow look like? _&lt;/strong&gt;How can AI be used effectively without falling into the trap of overhyped marketing? Charlie shares his vision for a future where contact centers are not just cost centers but valuable assets that enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Learn about the three key trends driving this transformation: the move to the cloud, the rise of digital channels, and the integration of automation and AI.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;But it's not all tech talk. We also get personal with Charlie, exploring his journey from South London to New York City and his passion for making a real impact in the CX space. Hear firsthand how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and innovation. Plus, get a sneak peek into the unique culture at SharpenCX and why it's a company built on authenticity and real results, not just buzzwords.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode of "CX Without the BS." Whether you're a CX professional, a business leader, or just curious about the future of customer service, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways. Hit that subscribe button, ring the notification bell, and join us as we strip away the BS and get real about customer experience. &lt;/p&gt;
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  <itunes:keywords>customer experience, contact center, CX without the BS, AI in customer service, usable AI, contact center of tomorrow, sharpen CX, Charlie Newark-French, Tom Milligan, Brian Nichols, CX industry, marketing fluff, BS in CX, SMB market, cloud-based technology, digital transformation, innovation, stability, customer satisfaction, radiologists, automation, machine learning, venture capitalist, RingCentral, hyper science, mortgage processing, UCaaS, CCaaS, customer service agents, AI replacement, technology disruption, industry trends, business leadership, entrepreneurship, startup scaling, customer service technology, CX solutions, customer engagement, customer journey, customer loyalty, customer retention, sales and marketing, business strategy, industry insights, thought leadership, innovation in CX, future of CX, CX innovation, customer experience management, customer service management, contact center management, customer service technology, customer experience technology, CX tech, contact center tech</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p><strong><em>Are you tired of the endless marketing fluff and empty promises in the CX industry?</em></strong> Join us for a no-nonsense conversation on "<strong>CX Without the BS</strong>" as we dive deep into the real issues and solutions in the contact center world. In this episode, Brian Nichols and Tom Milligan sit down with Charlie Newark-French, CEO of SharpenCX, to cut through the noise and get to the heart of what truly matters in customer experience. If you're looking for genuine insights and practical advice, this is the episode you can't afford to miss!</p>

<p>Charlie Newark-French brings a wealth of experience from his roles in UCaaS, CCaaS, and AI, making him the perfect guest to discuss the future of contact centers. From his early days as a venture capitalist investing in RingCentral to his leadership roles at Fuse and HyperScience, Charlie has seen it all. Now, as the CEO of SharpenCX, he's on a mission to revolutionize the industry with innovative, user-friendly AI solutions tailored for the SMB market. Discover how SharpenCX is setting new standards and why Charlie believes the contact center of tomorrow will be one that people love—or at least don't hate as much.</p>

<p>In this episode, we tackle the big questions: <strong>_What does the contact center of tomorrow look like? _</strong>How can AI be used effectively without falling into the trap of overhyped marketing? Charlie shares his vision for a future where contact centers are not just cost centers but valuable assets that enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Learn about the three key trends driving this transformation: the move to the cloud, the rise of digital channels, and the integration of automation and AI.</p>

<p>But it's not all tech talk. We also get personal with Charlie, exploring his journey from South London to New York City and his passion for making a real impact in the CX space. Hear firsthand how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and innovation. Plus, get a sneak peek into the unique culture at SharpenCX and why it's a company built on authenticity and real results, not just buzzwords.</p>

<p>Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode of "CX Without the BS." Whether you're a CX professional, a business leader, or just curious about the future of customer service, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways. Hit that subscribe button, ring the notification bell, and join us as we strip away the BS and get real about customer experience.</p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p><strong><em>Are you tired of the endless marketing fluff and empty promises in the CX industry?</em></strong> Join us for a no-nonsense conversation on "<strong>CX Without the BS</strong>" as we dive deep into the real issues and solutions in the contact center world. In this episode, Brian Nichols and Tom Milligan sit down with Charlie Newark-French, CEO of SharpenCX, to cut through the noise and get to the heart of what truly matters in customer experience. If you're looking for genuine insights and practical advice, this is the episode you can't afford to miss!</p>

<p>Charlie Newark-French brings a wealth of experience from his roles in UCaaS, CCaaS, and AI, making him the perfect guest to discuss the future of contact centers. From his early days as a venture capitalist investing in RingCentral to his leadership roles at Fuse and HyperScience, Charlie has seen it all. Now, as the CEO of SharpenCX, he's on a mission to revolutionize the industry with innovative, user-friendly AI solutions tailored for the SMB market. Discover how SharpenCX is setting new standards and why Charlie believes the contact center of tomorrow will be one that people love—or at least don't hate as much.</p>

<p>In this episode, we tackle the big questions: <strong>_What does the contact center of tomorrow look like? _</strong>How can AI be used effectively without falling into the trap of overhyped marketing? Charlie shares his vision for a future where contact centers are not just cost centers but valuable assets that enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Learn about the three key trends driving this transformation: the move to the cloud, the rise of digital channels, and the integration of automation and AI.</p>

<p>But it's not all tech talk. We also get personal with Charlie, exploring his journey from South London to New York City and his passion for making a real impact in the CX space. Hear firsthand how his experiences have shaped his approach to leadership and innovation. Plus, get a sneak peek into the unique culture at SharpenCX and why it's a company built on authenticity and real results, not just buzzwords.</p>

<p>Don't miss out on this engaging and informative episode of "CX Without the BS." Whether you're a CX professional, a business leader, or just curious about the future of customer service, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways. Hit that subscribe button, ring the notification bell, and join us as we strip away the BS and get real about customer experience.</p>]]>
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