Plant Your Flag with Bean Media

Hosted by Mike Bean & Jeremy Mountain

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Jun 2026

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About the show

We wanted to start a show that helps tell the stories of the amazing people who chose to Plant Their Flag and become a business owner. We talk about what it means to plant your flag, through good and bad, and we meet internally and with guests around Western New York to hear what it means to them

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32 recent

June 4, 2026Episode 233 min

What Businesses Are Actually Doing with AI PYF#32

Welcome to the 32nd episode of the Plant Your Flag Podcast! In this Episode, we talk about what Businesses are actually doing with AI. Join Mike Bean and Jeremy Mountain as they navigate the new business landscape powered by artificial intelligence.AI has been infiltrating every business and industry since neural network transformers were discovered in 2017. This allowed key models like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Grok, and so many more AI systems to enter the public space, where entrepreneurs have access to them.How are private and public businesses leveraging these and other AI systems? Mostly through automation and optimizing their work processes. So far, what we see is not often businesses looking to replace people but using AI to make everyday tasks much more efficient.In this episode, we will discuss:- How businesses are actually using AI- Using AI as an entrepreneur- How AI can improve a business's workflow- Why AI is not as threatening as it seems- What Meta is doing with their Andromeda AI- And more AI topicsWe hope you enjoy this deep dive into AI systems and how real businesses (like us) are actually using AI to improve how they operate themselves. If you want to learn more about AI and Business, watch the 31st episode of the podcast with John Porter, a tech leader who breaks down exactly how he is helping non-technical founders use AI solutions for their business.---===CHAPTERS===---00:00 - Intro01:23 - Improving our business with AI03:26 - Work Process Management05:01 - AI is not replacing you 07:55 - Connecting systems with Artificial Intelligence09:42 - Snake oil salesmen and AI gurus12:04 - AI after the AI boom14:05 - Meta Andromeda 17:15 - Humans are capable19:00 - AI and layoffs20:20 - What is the Plant Your Flag Podcast24:07 - Things are ever-changing in SEO, digital marketing, and AI29:18 - The immeasurable effects of marketing31:32 - Outro 32:17 - OuttakesThanks again for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast. If you liked the podcast, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/762c1F00LAMJXBSTATQ8gL?si=7695a335d2044918&nd=1&dlsi=85f6ed7dae244c6fApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-your-flag-with-bean-media/id1736171111#podcast #business #smallbusiness #buffalo #entrepreneurWatch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

May 8, 2026Episode 134 min

PYF#31 Tech Leader Reveals The Truth About AI in Business

Tech Leader John Porter explains what AI actually does for business and how companies are really using artificial intelligence to optimize workflows, improve scalability, and solve operational problems. Luckily for us, he has joined us for the 31st episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast!! In Episode 31 of the Plant Your Flag podcast, Mike Bean sits down with John Porter to discuss using AI tools safely and responsibly in businesses. They also discuss the business John Porter founded, Squared Sigma, which helps other businesses optimize work processes, solve business problems, and improve scalability for large clients and small solo entrepreneurs. John Porter is a veteran in the tech industry, working for major companies like Oracle, SAP, DecisionLink, and Xfactorio. Now he has founded his new business, Squared Sigma, where he provides AI solutions to everyday business problems to give entrepreneurs and employees their time back and to improve efficiency for everyone.In this episode, we'll discuss:- How businesses are actually using AI today- Common mistakes companies make when adopting AI- How AI improves productivity and scalability- Why AI isn’t replacing jobs the way people think- How entrepreneurs can leverage AI without technical experienceThank you for joining us on episode 31 of the Plant Your Flag podcast. If you want to see more of the podcast, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.—-===CHAPTERS===—00:00 - Intro01:06 - Building business solutions03:53 - Optimizing value opportunities 05:42 - AI in the tech industry06:47 - How to correctly use AI in your business07:42 - What John Porter and Squared Sigma does for technology and business09:58 - Not using AI recklessly 11:44 - Becoming an entrepreneur13:06 - Solving problems and optimizing work processes 14:53 - What motivates John Porter16:08 - Helping businesses thrive18:34 - Curiosity and corporate tech21:45 - The support system behind a successful entrepreneur 25:58 - Being stuck in the corporate world26:59 - AI is not causing layoffs in tech28:11 - The good and bad ways to use AI in business30:04 - Why should I use a solution31:30 - How to contact John Porter about leveraging AI33:22 - Outro33:57 - Outtakes=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/762c1F00LAMJXBSTATQ8gL?si=7695a335d2044918&nd=1&dlsi=85f6ed7dae244c6fApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-your-flag-with-bean-media/id1736171111Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

March 26, 2026Episode 1356 min

PYF #30 How I went from an Entrepreneur and Real Estate Agent to a Family Hero

Bill Neu, an entrepreneur, real estate agent, and now family hero, is our newest addition to our collection of outstanding entrepreneurs on the Plant Your Flag Podcast! On the 30th episode of the podcast, old coworkers and friends Bill Neu and Jer speak about Bill's new business, Gramma's house.Gramma's house isn't your regular construction business. Bill started this concept to help the elderly age in place by making modifications to their homes. Bill Neu is adamant that no one wants to go to a nursing home, and through his business, he can help your grandparents live in their homes much longer and much safer.Starting a business is a very hard thing to do, but if you do something you love that gets you out of bed each morning that truly matters to you, there is nothing more rewarding.Thanks for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast if you liked the podcast, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/762c1F00LAMJXBSTATQ8gL?si=7695a335d2044918&nd=1&dlsi=85f6ed7dae244c6fApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-your-flag-with-bean-media/id1736171111Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

March 5, 2026Episode 1242 min

PYF #29 What Really Happens When you Bet on Yourself

To find out what really happens when you bet yourself, you may have to try to find success the hard way. Starting your own business might be the riskiest and hardest thing you can do. On the Plant Your Flag podcast, we seek out these incredible entrepreneurs who bet on themselves and take that leap to plant their flags.On the 29th episode of the Plant Your Flag Podcast, Mike and Jer discuss the most recent business owners, entrepreneurs, and flag planters who told their business startup stories.Thanks for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast if you liked the podcast, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.Want to be a guest on PYF? https://youtu.be/53spFvBjlJk=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/762c1F00LAMJXBSTATQ8gL?si=7695a335d2044918&nd=1&dlsi=85f6ed7dae244c6fApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-your-flag-with-bean-media/id1736171111Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

February 13, 2026Episode 1143 min

PYF #28 Breaking Depression Stigma: Dan Lukasik’s Mental Health Journey

Depression and mental health have long been stigmatized in America. Dan Lukasik is here to share his depression journey on the 28th episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast. He has gone through his own battle with depression as a lawyer and has made it his mission to help those with mental illness all over the country. He has made two documentaries about depression and mental illness, one about his brother, "My Brother Lost in Time: a Bipolar Life," and another about a young boy Dan Lukasik mentored titled "Travels with George: A Journey Through Depression Connection and Friendship."Dan Lukasik is now the NYS Judicial Wellness Coordinator, Lawyer, a Filmmaker, a Law Professor, a Well-Being Advocate & CLE Presenter, and a Keynote Speaker who addresses problems with mental illness and depression in the legal world and far beyond.Dan sat down with Mike today to tell his story of his journey with depression, but also to share the motivation and making of his two films, as well as how businesses can and should care about mental health in the workplace. Dan also shares many more insights, stories, and more on the 28th episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast. Thanks for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast if you liked the podcast, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/762c1F00LAMJXBSTATQ8gL?si=7695a335d2044918&nd=1&dlsi=85f6ed7dae244c6fApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-your-flag-with-bean-media/id1736171111Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

January 22, 2026Episode 1055 min

PYF #27 Something Electrifying | How Nic Lalich turned his Dream into a Business Reality

The Plant Your Flag Podcast returns in 2026 with our newest guest, Nic Lalich! Nic is the founder and business owner of 86400 Entertainment. A company focused on producing shows for concerts and musicians. Nic has been a long-time ally for us at Bean Media Productions, so its an honor having him on to talk about how he started his business. Nic has worked in many roles in his life, including being a representative for Meta, and he has translated his skills and his relationships into his business.This is another long one, so get strapped in and stay tuned for another amazing story about business, success, achieving your dreams, and planting your flag!Thanks for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast if you liked the podcast, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

January 1, 202632 min

Plant Your Flag; The Best of 2025

The business podcast of Buffalo is back! This episode is a compilation of the best moments from all of our guests and all of the diffrent episodes from 2025.We look forward to seeing how the podcast evolves in 2026, and we hope you'll join us for more business stories, expert advice, and exciting Buffalo action!Thank you for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast. If you liked this podcast, be sure to check out our other episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/762c1F00LAMJXBSTATQ8gL?si=7695a335d2044918&nd=1&dlsi=85f6ed7dae244c6fApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-your-flag-with-bean-media/id1736171111Do you want to be a guest on the podcast? https://youtu.be/53spFvBjlJkWatch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

December 12, 2025Episode 958 min

PYF #26 AI in Digital Marketing. Marketing Experts talk about AI and its Role in Your Business

Will AI steal our jobs?!? Digital Marketing Experts discuss their unique insights into AI and business on the 26th episode of the Plant Your Flag Podcast. There is so much to unpack with AI in business and digital marketing. What can AI do for me?Organic and paid ads both rely on AI tools to put the right content in front of the right audience for conversion. You can see this with Google's AI Max, previously Performance Max, and now with Meta's Andromeda.These AIs are designed to make the job of digital marketers easier, but will the computer intelligence end up ruining their jobs entirely? Will AI destroy advertising altogether? These questions and much more are discussed in this colossal episode of The Plant Your Flag Podcast. Mike and Jer are here to teach you what to be wary of and what to take advantage of for your business.=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/762c1F00LAMJXBSTATQ8gL?si=7695a335d2044918&nd=1&dlsi=85f6ed7dae244c6fApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/plant-your-flag-with-bean-media/id1736171111Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

November 21, 2025Episode 840 min

PYF #25 Kate Glaser & the Hope Rises Story: Charity, Change, and Hope

Welcome to Episode 25 of The Plant Your Flag Podcast. Our guest is Kate Glaser! TV Journalist, Entrepreneur, Founder of Hope Rises News Non-Profit, Hope Rises Network, and a Western New York Community Leader!Kate Glaser is our biggest star to date on The Plant Your Flag Podcast, and we're very glad she decided to come on and share her story with us! Jer is also back in the host seat, bringing us good questions and good times.Special Guest Kate Glaser tells us her story of how she got started and how she founded her nonprofit Hope Rises News, a station dedicated to telling stories of uplifting deeds and spreading kindness and care in the community. In the episode of the Podcast, Kate shares with us her philosophy for doing good and keeping up with running her nonprofit, as well as who she is and what inspired her to "plant her flag" and start her missionThanks for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast if you liked the podcast, be sure to check out our other podcast episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!

October 30, 2025Episode 735 min

PYF #24 Behind Creekside Business Consulting: Founding Principles, Specialization and Payroll Tips

We're back! On this episode of Plant Your Flag, Robert Kropczynski and Mike Bean talk about Rob's business, Creekside Business Consulting. Rob started his business one year ago and talks about how he built it into something special from the ground up.Join us on this episode of The Plant Your Flag Podcast to be in the know about small and large Western New York businesses. See behind the scenes into real business owners' lives and what inspires them to plant their flag.Thank you for joining us on another episode of the Plant Your Flag podcast. If you liked this podcast, be sure to check out our other episodes on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts.=== Find Us! ===Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeanMediaProductionsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/beanmedia/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bean-media-productions/Website: https://www.beanmediaproductions.com/Watch the video on YouTube on the Bean Media Channel!This podcast will be dedicated to the fearless ones who decided to stick their flag in the ground and start their venture. We will continue to talk about the entrepreneurship world and feature guests who inspire us and keep us going. Stay tuned!