Hey folks!

Nice to be back after I took off last Friday for the 4th! A couple things on my mind...

1. AI Growth vs. AI Efficiency: This week I keep asking people - "do you know anyone who has unlocked a new level of growth for their business with AI?" I've yet to get a clear "yes" - so I'm throwing it to you. Just to be clear, I see TONS of people (myself included) who have unlocked new margin by reducing costs or making things more efficient - that is real. But I kind of thought by now we'd see rampant topline growth stories happening and I'm not seeing it. Interestingly for my own marketing clients, we've seen some massive topline growth, but it's been through the same old boring stuff vs. something new and shiny. I don't think this is necessarily a bad thing, but margin is a finite opportunity - you can't get better than 100% gross margin - but topline is infinite. I want to hear some topline growth stories. Got any?

2. How I Do Public Speaking: I'm preaching at my church this Sunday (not a regular occurrence) and I thought I'd share how I prepare for public speaking engagements. I got this from a pastor named Brian Wells when I was in my 20's, and I've used it ever since. Step 1: Write a precise script of what I want to say and edit to perfect. Step 2: Record it on Voice Memo. Step 3: Listen 10+ times. Step 4: Practice in front of each of my older kids (ok I added that one) and Step 5: Speak day of with little or no notes trusting that it's in my head. It's kind of a painful process, but I've found the repetition drills it into my subconscious so when I'm reaching for a word I can trust I'll find it, and it allows me to actually engage with an audience and pivot as I go. Also - if you're in Cincinnati come to City Church OTR on Sunday!

3. Camp Snap Camera: I got this camera as an unexpected gift this week, and I have absolutely LOVED it. It's a digital camera that doesn't have a display on the back at all. So you take pictures like in ye olden days by looking through the lens and pushing the button. Later you can wire it to your computer and review the photos you take. I don't know what it is - but it has given me new eyes for my life this week. I see my kids doing something in the kitchen and I want to capture it, but something about not having a display or a review moment somehow lets me soak in the moment more deeply in real life. I'm having trouble describing it, but I'll just say it's slowed me down and helped me appreciate the beauty in my life - which dang is something I needed. (no affiliate - just a cool thing.)

That's it for htis week! Hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Best,

Blake

P.S. It's almost go time on our book - it comes out 10/13! We're building a launch team of 1,000 people to help us get the word out. As a member, you'll get an early copy of the book, bonus content, and a real role in shaping the launch. If you're interested in helping, could you enter your email on the list here? Thank you so so much!