Billy Gene: Why Authenticity Beats Hustle in Modern Marketing

Billy Gene is a trailblazing marketing genius, entrepreneur, and educator renowned for his dynamic approach to online advertising and business growth. Having helped thousands of entrepreneurs and major brands like Kia, Massage Envy, and Procter & Gamble, Billy Gene is celebrated for turning high-level marketing strategies into accessible, actionable advice. With a passion for leveraging AI and automation, he focuses on empowering everyday business owners to scale, automate, and dominate their industries— all while encouraging them to show up authentically and unapologetically. Takeaways: AI-Driven Opportunity: Automation and artificial intelligence are revolutionizing marketing, making powerful results accessible even for those without tech expertise. Helping small businesses implement AI solutions is a major, untapped opportunity. Be Authentically You: The biggest mistake people make in ads is losing their personality and becoming robotic on camera. Authenticity and showing your true self are what drive connection and sales. Ask More, Scale More: If you want to scale your business, you need to amplify how often you ask people to buy—especially through simple, scalable video ads instead of relying on old-school hustle. Sound Bites: "Most business owners are either too busy or too lazy or just simply unwilling to learn something new... but with AI, you do not have to be techy anymore." "If you can use artificial intelligence to make that content with them, to follow up for them... what's that worth to you? Thousands of dollars a month? Of course it is." "The simplest strategy is: ask more people to buy by using video, because video can scale infinitely in anywhere around the world. That is the answer." Quote by Mick Hunt: "Side hustle is great, but strategy is important. The hustle culture at some point has to evolve to, 'I can do what the heck I want to do.'"   Connect & Discover Billy: LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/billy-gene-is-marketing/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/billygeneismarketing Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billygeneismarketing/ Website:  https://billygeneismarketing.com/ Tik Tok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@billygeneismarketing Youtube:  https://www.youtube.com/user/BillyGeneIsMarketing   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sergeant James Booker is a retired law enforcement officer with a remarkable legacy of service, leadership, and integrity. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in law enforcement in Pensacola, Florida, Booker began his public service after leaving the Marine Corps and worked his way from the only true "prison" in Florida—Florida State Prison—to the progressive and challenging Broward County Sheriff's Department. Over the course of his career, Booker earned a reputation for steadfast principles, hands-on leadership, and unwavering commitment to doing what’s right, no matter the cost. His journey includes facing the harsh realities of the correctional system, mentoring future leaders like Raymond Hicks, and providing guidance and hope to those navigating profound personal and professional trials. Takeaways: Character and Standards Matter: Booker emphasizes that maintaining your values and upholding high standards, especially in positions of authority, defines your legacy and influence as a leader. Prisons Run on Complex, Unseen Dynamics: The real-life operations and power structures inside prisons are far more nuanced and disciplined than most people realize—offering a stark contrast to TV and movie depictions. Leadership is Service and Sacrifice: True leadership is shown through mentorship, unwavering support during adversity, tough but fair accountability, and always putting integrity above personal convenience.  Sound Bites: "Most people think in Florida that there's a multitude of prisons. It's only one prison in the state of Florida... everything else is a correctional facility or work camp." "At the end of the day, that's all people can judge you on is your character. Nothing else. It's your character." "If something is wrong, just know it's wrong. Nobody can tell you it's right when you know it's wrong." Mick’s Quote: "How you do small things is how you do all things." FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                               Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tamara Thompson is a visionary in video marketing, master storyteller, and the dynamic force behind Broadcast Your Authority. With a background in impactful documentary filmmaking and a passion for connecting people, Tamara has built a powerhouse platform that empowers entrepreneurs, CEOs, and business owners to amplify their message and authority through data-driven storytelling and podcasting. Her own journey—from overcoming personal obstacles to thriving as an entrepreneur—fuels her mission to support others in sharing authentic stories that drive connection and growth. As the host of the Broadcast Your Authority podcast and founder of the eponymous agency, Tamara’s work has transformed countless leaders into recognized industry voices.  Key Takeaways: Authentic connections and consistent relationship-building are at the heart of Tamara’s entrepreneurial journey—her commitment to genuine outreach has opened doors and fueled both personal and business growth. Storytelling is foundational for building a resonant brand. Tamara underscores the power of crafting and sharing both overarching narratives and incremental stories that align with a company’s mission, driving deeper audience engagement. Data-driven content creation sets apart today's top business leaders—Broadcast Your Authority helps clients leverage analytics to refine messaging, expand reach, and deliver content that truly resonates with what audiences are searching for.  Sound Bites: "It may sound a little cliche, but when I decided I could actually help more people and showed results for more people, then the doors also started opening in my space as well." "If your audience has already spoken about your content, your episodes—do more of what they love and pay attention to that data." "A lot of people don’t believe they have a strong enough story, but having an expert to help pull it out can be transformational." Quote by Mick: "So if you're listening, if you're watching, do me a favor, do Tamara a favor. Right now, there's somebody that's on your heart, that's on your mind, and we all have it, right? But right now, there's really somebody that's like, you know, you should reach out, or your heart's telling you to reach out. Do that as soon as you listen to this episode." Connect & Discover Tamara: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/broadcast-your-authority-6878804699525500928/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/broadcastyourauthority/reels/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tamarathompsonofficial/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/broadcastyourauthority/ Website: https://broadcastyourauthority.com/ Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@broadcastyourauthority   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                               Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Blaire LaCorte is a visionary business leader renowned for transforming industries and cultivating relentless growth. As the CEO of Loomis and former CEO of XOJET, Blaire has built his reputation on turning challenges into opportunities, scaling businesses through strategic innovation, and building strong, purpose-driven cultures. Known for his deep curiosity and people-first leadership style, Blaire has guided both turnarounds and high-growth companies by empowering teams, embracing change, and prioritizing authenticity and respect in every interaction. His unique perspective comes from a lifetime of learning, both in business and personal development, making him a sought-after coach and mentor for executives worldwide.  Key Takeaways: People Are the Heart of Every Business: No matter how innovative the technology or groundbreaking the ideas, true success hinges on people working together effectively and building the right culture. Strategy Is About Saying ‘No’: While brainstorming welcomes all ideas, effective strategy means making tough decisions, focusing on what matters most, and aligning your team around those priorities. Growth Requires Discomfort and Change: Leaders must create environments where teams are challenged, sometimes by “moving the stool” and letting people stand on their own, learning through failure, and being held accountable.  Sound Bites: “Brainstorming is about saying yes. Strategy is about saying no.” “If you assume everybody is stupid when you come in, then they will assume that you're stupid and that you don't see them.” “I can help someone up, but I can't hold them up. If I continue to help you too much and I hold you up, your legs don't get strong.” Quote by Mick: “I tell people all the time and if you listen to the show, you know I say, culture is a four letter word—C, A, R, E. And if you're a business leader, you don't necessarily lead the business, you lead the culture, and the culture is what drives the business.”   Connect & Discover Blair: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-lacorte-68084/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blair.lacorte Website: https://www.aeye.ai/ Website: https://bootstraplabs.com/community/blair-lacorte/   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Justin Michael Lewis, also known as DJ JayLew, is a renowned DJ and entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the world of entertainment, business, and education. Born in Columbia, Maryland, and currently based in Las Vegas, Justin's journey began with a passion for DJing that sparked at age 12. By his early twenties, he had achieved many of his youthful dreams, including performing at festivals and hosting live events. With a unique approach to goal-setting and collaboration, Justin went on to become a successful business leader and co-founder of Data Global Hub, a company poised for billion-dollar success in the data tech and AI industry. He is also a professional boxer with three title belts, and a committed mentor and advocate for education and empowerment in the minority communities. Takeaways: Purpose behind Goals: Justin emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose behind every goal, ensuring they align with where you're headed and evolve as you do. Power of Collaboration: He highlights the significance of collaborative goal-setting and how having a supportive team can be a game-changer in achieving success. Resilience and Adaptability: Through his journey from DJing to professional boxing and founding a tech company, Justin underscores the value of resilience, adaptability, and learning from failures to achieve long-term success. Soundbites: "My goal is to inspire other DJs to do more than just music and make an impact before seeking notoriety." "Sometimes we have to take inventory to see if our goals align with the next version of who we want to be." "The greatest advantage I've had is playing a fool to catch a fool; it's something that God has blessed me with." Quote by Mick Hunt: "When I did the intro, I said one of the greatest business minds that I know. And that's why I truly mean that."   Connect & Discover DJ JayLew: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/djjaylew/?hl=en Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/djjaylewtv Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/djnocap/   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr. Amara Pope is a multifaceted talent, blending creativity and academia seamlessly. A communications and media expert, she has a keen eye for marketing strategies, often leveraging AI for testing and implementing campaigns. Beyond her corporate pursuits, Amara is an accomplished artist, finding solace and creative expression through painting—a passion ignited from a young age. Raised with Trinidadian roots in Canada, she cherishes family ties and values experiences that deepen her connection with her heritage. Known for her vibrant and analytical mind, Dr. Pope is not only a beacon of knowledge but also of cultural richness and personal growth.  Takeaways: The integration of AI in everyday marketing strategies can significantly enhance efficiency and creativity, particularly in areas like A/B testing and corporate communications. Exploring different cultures can provide invaluable life lessons and enrich personal perspectives, as demonstrated by Dr. Pope's eye-opening experiences in Japan. Prioritizing family and personal relationships can add a grounding balance to the chaos of professional life, underscoring the importance of life's simple joys and connections.  Sound Bites: "I wrapped myself up into one piece at a time... it's in my head, I have to get it out. It's like meditation for me." "Honestly, in everyday communications, AI has been so helpful. It's about working in tandem with technology, not against it." "The cultural respect and etiquette I witnessed in Japan taught me a lot about appreciation and mindfulness in everyday actions." One Quote by Mick: "I've created some closed-sourced AI of my brain, right? My intellectual property, things that I've done, and I've been able to train it so that it is me. And it is freaking scary. But I guess that's what it's supposed to be, right?"   Connect & Discover Dr. Amara: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amara-pope/?originalSubdomain=ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dramarapope/ Website: https://dramarapope.ca/   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aaron Walker, affectionately known as Big A, is a powerhouse in personal development and leadership, renowned for his mentorship and transformative impact spanning over 46 years. As the visionary behind Iron Sharpens Iron Mastermind, he has helped countless individuals experience growth beyond mere success by guiding them toward significance. Walker's deep-rooted faith and holistic approach to leadership have inspired many to re-evaluate their paths and embrace the journey with patience and resilience. From mentoring elite business figures to influencing everyday lives, his wisdom and experience have made a profound and lasting global impact.  Takeaways: Mentorship is essential: Aaron emphasizes the significance of mentorship, sharing how his mentors helped him navigate life’s challenges and leading him to become a mentor himself. Legacy creation is intentional: We’re all leaving a legacy, Aaron suggests. The key is in being deliberate about it, making sure it reflects a life of significance over mere success. Embracing patience: Aaron advises being patient and trusting God's timing, as the journey itself is a significant aspect of reaching one's ultimate goals. Sound Bites: "We're all leaving a legacy. It's just. What is it? We can either do it intentional, or we can do it unintentional." "Oftentimes I have found, over the course of my 46 year entrepreneurial journey, if I had gotten what I asked for, it could have been detrimental." "You can go faster alone, but you can't go near as far because there's other perspectives." Quote by Mick: "When I tell you that I've looked up to you, that's the reason why...as a man, how open you are about your faith and how humble you are about how you can't do things alone."   Connect & Discover Aaron: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/isimastermind/ Website: www/viewfromthetop.com Book: View From the Top FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Roy Juarez Jr. is a relentless force of positivity and change, celebrated as a motivational speaker and advocate dedicated to transforming lives. With a history of overcoming significant personal challenges, including homelessness as a teenager, Roy has emerged as a beacon of hope for youth and communities nationwide. His compelling story of resilience and love, interwoven with his mission to empower young minds, has inspired countless individuals to redefine their potential and pursue an unwavering path of growth and self-discovery. Roy continues to influence lives through Impact Truth, his platform aimed at uplifting the next generation. Takeaways: Overcoming Adversity: Roy’s journey from homelessness to motivational speaking embodies the power of resilience and determination to overcome life’s toughest challenges. Importance of Education: Roy emphasizes that combining life experiences with education can redefine one’s future, turning past hardships into strengths. Unconditional Love and Mentorship: Roy’s story reminds us that love and guidance, often found through mentors, can transform lives and create lasting change. Sound Bites: "Education will not only change your life, but it will change the entire fabric of your family." "If people can hate for no reason in this world, I can love for no reason." "Kids never stop loving their parents. They only stop loving themselves."   Quote by Mick (host): I believe in mentorship, right? Like, if you're trying to grow, mentors are the way to get there."   Connect & Discover Roy: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/royjuarezjr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/royjuarezjr Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RoyJuarezJr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@royjuarezjr Book: Homeless By Choice: A Memoir of Love, Hate, and Foregiveness   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dive into an electrifying conversation on Mick Unplugged, where host Mick Hunt sits down with award-winning filmmaker Jason Aron, as they unravel the accidental journey from criminal justice to the star-studded world of film production. Tune in for captivating stories, like filming Michael J. Fox talking hockey, and the serendipitous inception of the "Back to the Future" documentary. Mick and Jason explore the essence of storytelling, the magic of creativity, and how even seemingly simple moments can lead to monumental projects. This episode is a masterclass in turning passion into reality—don't miss it! Takeaways: The accidental journey can become a pathway to success: Jason's career in filmmaking kicked off unexpectedly, showcasing the power of seizing opportunities and saying 'yes' even before you're completely ready. Simplicity can lead to greatness: Jason's approach to projects, focusing on basic but universal concepts, reflects the idea that sometimes the profound is found in simplicity. Creativity doesn't sleep: Jason shares his relentless drive to create, underscoring that true passion means constantly finding ways to express and challenge oneself. Sound Bites: "Jason Aron: Heavily by accident. To be honest, my college degree is in criminal justice."  "You have to be a little nuts, and I think you have to be willing to work 22 hours a day sometimes."  "Mick Hunt: I'm not letting you get away with that, Jason."  Quote by Mick (Host): It's not just, hey, we're going to go record something. There's still a story that has to be told that's deeper than the story that's telling."   Connect & Discover with Jason: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jason_aron/ Website:  https://www.jasonaron.com/   FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christine Curran is a dynamic force in the world of entertainment and entrepreneurship. Known for her visionary approach, Christine transitioned from modeling to media mogul status, founding the Dining Empire and producing celebrated shows like Dining Divas and Destination Divas. With a keen focus on empowering women globally, she leads initiatives that uplift and inspire, all while navigating the challenges and triumphs of leadership. Passionate about storytelling and impacting lives, Christine has also ventured into innovative projects such as the Women Empowerment Token, uniting crypto with empowerment. A devoted mother and a beacon of resilience, she continues to break barriers and redefine success on her own terms. Takeaways: Leadership and accountability are crucial for personal and professional growth, as Christine underscores the importance of being transparent and supportive to allow team members to thrive. Christine's journey from modeling to creating a media empire demonstrates the power of recognizing opportunities and taking bold steps toward entrepreneurship. Embracing a routine that balances work with personal mental health practices like meditation and nature walks can significantly aid in managing stress and maintaining productivity. Sound Bites: "Food and travel are the two things AI can't take away from the human experience." "Accountability is the gateway to a successful company." "Just get started. Work every day towards an end goal, and you will reach that goal." Quote by Mick: "I love everything about that. You know, when people ask me about the legacy that I want to leave behind, I always say it's the impact that I make through my kids, through my nieces, my nephews, my family, my close circle." Connect & Discover Christine: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinecurrantv/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ChristineCurran Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealchristinecurran Website: https://christinecurran.com/ Website: https://www.diningempire.com/en TV: https://diningdivas.tv/ FOLLOW MICK ON:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mickunplugged/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mickunplugged/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mickunplugged  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickhunt/Website: https://www.mickhuntofficial.com                                                              Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mick-unplugged/  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.