Wedding Business Solutions

Hosted by Alan Berg, CSP, FPSA, Global Speaking Fellow

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442

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Nov 2026

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About the show

If weddings and events are all or part of your business, you’re in the right place. The Wedding Business Solutions podcast is where you’ll get real-world ideas to help you sell more, profit more, and maybe even enjoy the process a little more, too. Hosted by Alan Berg CSP, FPSA, one of the wedding and event industry’s most experienced sales and marketing speakers, each bite-sized episode gives you practical, easy-to-use ideas you can apply right away. Whether it’s converting more inquiries, following up without sounding pushy, improving your website, handling ghosting, raising your prices with confidence, or using AI in ways that actually help your business, Alan shares insights with his signature mix of common sense, experience, and humor. Alan is the author of 16 books, including AI for the Real World and Shut Up and Sell More. He’s also been named one of the “Top 100 Speakers to Watch in 2025” for the third year in a row by Motivator Music on LinkedIn, and is one of only 46 Global Speaking Fellows worldwide. Some episodes are just Alan sharing ideas and stories from decades in sales and the wedding industry. Other episodes feature conversations with industry pros, entrepreneurs, and experts who can help you work smarter, make more money, and create better experiences for your clients. If you’ve ever thought: “Why are they ghosting me?” “How do I book more of the right clients?” “Why does my website get traffic but not inquiries?” “What should I actually be using AI for?” …you’ll probably feel right at home here. You can read full transcripts of every episode at podcast.AlanBerg.com. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss new episodes, workshops, and ideas you can put to work immediately. If you’d like to learn more about Alan’s speaking, sales training, consulting, AI workshops, or website review services, visit: IWantAlan.com Podcast.AlanBerg.com ConnectWithAlanBerg.com You can also reach Alan directly at Alan@AlanBerg.com. Note from Alan: I invite guests onto the podcast because I believe they can bring value to you, my listeners. Occasionally, I may have a business relationship or affiliate connection with a guest or product discussed on the show. My first priority is always providing useful, actionable information, and I do not sell guest spots or paid placements on the podcast.

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60 recent

November 11, 202610 min

Does the M dash have to go?

Have you ever wondered why AI seems to love the M dash so much more than we do? Is your writing being flagged as AI generated just because you use a little punctuation differently? In this episode I dig into the history of the M dash, how and why it gets overused by AI tools, and what it really says about your writing style. Should you start removing M dashes from your work to avoid being mistaken for a robot, or is there a better way to handle this common signal? Listen to this new 8 minute episode for practical tips on punctuation, avoiding false AI flags, and understanding why people notice the M dash in your writing. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Summary In this episode I dive deep into the world of the em dash and its surprising connection to AI writing. I share my experiences with the growing conversation about AI-generated content and why some tools flag the em dash as a telltale sign of artificial authorship. I explore the true history behind the em dash, tracing it back to the days of typesetting when the length of the dash matched the width of the capital letter M. I explain how the em dash is properly used for emphasis, abrupt turns in thought, asides, and occasions where parentheses or colons might also work. I discuss how the limitations of the typewriter era kept many of us from learning about or using the em dash extensively and how modern AI, trained on huge volumes of literature and formal style guides, tends to favor the em dash far more than human writers. I use insights from AI tools like Perplexity and ChatGPT to illustrate just how much more frequently AI employs this punctuation mark. I point out that while the presence of an em dash alone does not mean a passage was written by AI, an overuse can raise suspicions. To avoid false positives and to keep my own writing human, I share practical strategies such as instructing AI to avoid em dashes or using find and replace to swap them out for more familiar punctuation. Even though the use of the em dash is legitimate, I recognize the reality that readers and editors may now associate it with AI writing, so I adapt my approach accordingly. Throughout the episode I highlight the importance of understanding both the origins and current perceptions of this punctuation mark, offering guidance for anyone who wants their writing to remain unmistakably human. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

November 9, 202635 min

Karl Alhrichs - How is AI steering us in the wrong direction?

Karl Alhrichs - How is AI steering us in the wrong direction? Are you blindly trusting the first answer AI gives you? What risks are you taking when clients arrive with AI-generated timelines or contracts that might be logistically impossible or even dangerous? In this episode, guest Karl Ahlrichs and I question how much faith we put in AI and explore the real value wedding professionals bring as the ultimate auditors and truth tellers. Could your critical thinking and wisdom be the competitive advantage that keeps you ahead of the AI slop? Listen to this new episode for ways to safeguard your business, elevate your expertise, and ensure you’re still adding uniquely human value in an AI-driven world. Bio: Karl Ahlrichs knows weddings. He had a hand in planning 2 weddings as a groom, attended 54, and paid his way through college by doing videography and photography for 183. As a business consultant he has broad experience in the “human capital” of modern organizations with expertise in Human Resources, Operations and senior level problem solving. He is a national speaker and author, presenting on the people issues in organizations, ethics, critical thinking, and professional skepticism, and is often quoted in national media. He has been named the SHRM Human Resource Professional of the Year for the State of Indiana and holds the SHRM-SCP and SPHR certifications. In the National Speakers Association, he is one of fewer than 700 active Certified Speaking Professionals. Contact Karl: www.ExpertSpeaks.com Karl Ahlrichs, CSP | LinkedIn Instagram – @kahlrichs Facebook - @kahlrichs If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Summary: In this episode I dive into a conversation with my friend Karl Ahlrichs about the ways AI is impacting the wedding industry and how it may be steering us in the wrong direction. We discuss the temptation couples and vendors face to trust AI-generated content without verifying its accuracy and how this can create some real challenges during the wedding planning process. Karl and I share stories about AI-generated wedding agendas and contracts that can end up being logistically impossible or legally risky. I talk about my own experience using AI to update my book and how important it is to double check everything AI provides before putting it into the world. We get into the real-world implications of relying on the first answer AI offers and why most people do not take the time to refine their prompts or double check the information. The conversation highlights the dangers of taking AI at face value whether it is putting together a complicated timeline for a wedding or drafting a contract. We stress the importance of wedding professionals acting as auditors for AI outputs and reclaiming their authority by using their own expertise and critical thinking. As we explore the impact of AI on research and vendor reputation, we also address the risks of AI-generated images and generic text making their way into the industry. Karl brings up the analogy of fixing a six dollar haircut and how professionals can add value by correcting AI slop. We reflect on the trend toward value-based pricing and how results and experience are what matter most not just the hours spent or the tools used. Toward the end of the episode we talk about the growing desire for more authentic human touch as analog methods make a comeback. I encourage everyone to be curious and suspicious of AI outputs and share lessons about verifying content before sharing it with clients or the public. The overall message is that AI is a useful tool but it cannot replace the wisdom human professionals bring to the table. The discussion closes with an emphasis on using AI thoughtfully trusting but always verifying and finding ways to add an authentic human element to every wedding experience. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

November 4, 20269 min

What's your AI prompting style?

What's your AI prompting style? When you use AI tools, do you fire off quick one-line questions or do you take the time to explain exactly what you need? Are you finding yourself using AI just for one thing and then suddenly for everything, or are you relying on AI to turn every idea into content? In this episode, I talk about different prompting styles and why the way you give instructions to AI matters more than you might think. You might be surprised at how a change in your approach could improve your results and help you use AI more authentically. Listen to this new 7-minute episode for ideas on finding your own AI prompting style and tips to make your use of AI more genuine and effective. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Summary: In this episode I dive deep into the different styles people use when prompting AI whether you are just giving a single line instruction asking a quick question or you are someone who writes out detailed paragraphs for maximum context there are many different ways to interact with these tools I explore the concept of "prompting styles" which range from the one-liner to the over-explainer the systems architect the content machine the passive subscriber and the reluctant convert I share examples from my own experience both as someone who uses AI for quick lookups and as someone who provides detailed prompts when I want specific results There is insight on how giving better instructions usually leads to better AI output and how your approach might shift depending on your needs I talk about how I once resisted using AI only to become a regular user after seeing its potential at a conference and what it means to be authentic and intentional when using AI for your own business content Overall this episode is all about understanding your own AI prompting habits and considering how tweaking your style could get you more authentic useful results in your wedding business Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

October 28, 20268 min

The purpose of technique is not to show it. It's to transcend it!

The purpose of technique is not to show it. It's too transcend it! Are you caught up in perfecting your craft but forgetting why it matters to those you serve? Do you focus more on what you do than on the result it creates for your clients? What if your experience and skills are important, but the only thing your customer cares about is their own experience? In this episode I challenge you to shift your mindset from technique for its own sake to transcending it and creating something meaningful for someone else. Listen to this new 6-minute episode for insights into how mastering your technique isn’t the end goal but a path to crafting an unforgettable experience for your customers. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ In this episode I explore the deeper meaning behind mastering your craft in the wedding industry and beyond. Reflecting on insights from Yo-Yo Ma’s conversations with creatives and innovators I discuss why technique isn’t about impressing others with skills but about moving past the technical to create real impact and experiences for your clients. I use examples from photography floral design music and even culinary arts to illustrate how focusing solely on technique only gets you so far I touch on the difference between hobbyists and professionals emphasizing that business success is about providing outcomes and experiences not simply showcasing a resume or technical expertise. By sharing some of my own journey I highlight that clients care much more about the value and results we deliver than the process or the resume behind it I point out that while learning new techniques is essential the real magic happens when we use our skills to help others transcend and have memorable experiences. True value lies in using our expertise to understand clients create for them and serve their needs rather than simply demonstrating what we can do. I encourage listeners to embrace purposeful practice continuously improve and focus on how their craft transforms others’ experiences. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

October 26, 202626 min

So, I had another conversation with ChatGPT!

Are you actually getting your voice and style into your work when you use AI tools like ChatGPT? What if you could challenge the AI to go beyond surface-level answers and truly act as your critical editor? In this episode, I talk about the frustrations, breakthroughs, and lessons I experienced while updating my book with help from ChatGPT, and how asking better questions can transform the results. Are you owning every word? Are you challenging your technology to make your content authentically yours? Listen to this new 25-minute episode for tips on getting more authentic results with AI, asking better questions, and making sure your voice shines through every word. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Summary: In this episode of the Wedding Business Solutions podcast, I share a fascinating behind-the-scenes conversation that I had with ChatGPT about the process of updating my book, "Why Are They Ghosting Me," to a refreshed edition. The discussion takes you through the unique experience of collaborating with AI, including some of the challenges and frustrations I faced when trying to maintain my authentic voice and style throughout the project. We delve into the mechanics of using ChatGPT projects versus individual chats, exploring how instructions and memory can sometimes be overridden and why even clear upfront guidance is not always followed consistently. I explain how I had to remind the AI to stick to my original voice and examples rather than defaulting to rewriting content, which led to multiple drafts and ongoing tweaking. One key insight was the discovery that simply asking the AI, "Are you happy with that?" could set it into a critique mode, offering more honest and analytical feedback. This approach became a useful tool for elevating the quality of the book, rather than just receiving encouraging but less helpful responses. The episode also covers the benefits of building a style guide and using specific instructions to preserve my voice for future projects. I share my realization that while AI can accelerate the process of gathering and organizing ideas and content, it is essential to maintain ownership and authenticity in the final product. The importance of challenging the AI and not just accepting the first draft is emphasized, as well as the value of being open to tough critique to achieve the best possible result. By sharing this conversation, I aim to give listeners a practical look at how to use AI tools more effectively in creative projects, ensuring that the end result truly represents their unique voice and vision. This episode is filled with actionable takeaways for anyone considering leveraging AI to help with writing, editing, or brainstorming new ideas in their business. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

October 21, 20268 min

I just bought a ticket to a conference in 2028!

I just bought a ticket to a conference in 2028! Are you making your own development a priority, or just waiting for the “right time” to invest in yourself? What opportunities are you missing because you hesitate to commit? What if the one new idea or connection that could change everything is waiting for you at the next event, but only if you show up? In this episode, I challenge you to treat your education and business development as non-negotiable and share personal strategies for always being present where possibilities happen. Listen to this new 6-minute episode for motivation to lock in your growth, make yourself a priority, and discover why committing early matters more than you think. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Summary: In this episode, I dive into why I bought a ticket for a conference scheduled two years from now and what drives me to make early decisions when it comes to education and personal development. I talk about the importance of making learning a true priority in my business life, regardless of how many years I have been working in the industry or how many credentials I have earned. By purchasing tickets to events like the National Speakers Association Conference and the Global Speaking Summit well in advance, I am able to commit myself fully to attending and reaping the benefits of these unique experiences. I detail how showing up at these conferences year after year often leads to unexpected rewards. It is not just about what happens in the sessions, but about who you meet in the hallways or at social gatherings. I share examples of opportunities that arose for me simply because I was present and invested in being part of the professional community. I also point out that some attendees could just as easily be speakers themselves, but they make the choice to be there and continue learning because they value ongoing growth. Throughout the episode I encourage listeners to reflect on how they approach personal and business development. Are you putting these priorities first, even if it means committing well ahead of time? Or are you hesitating, waiting for a possible better offer or opportunity that might never come? I urge everyone to block their calendars, invest in themselves, and show up early to seize those vital new ideas and meaningful connections that only happen when you are truly present. The message is clear—your growth and success are worth planning for, and the time to invest is now. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

October 14, 202610 min

Can you be Authentic in an AI world?

When you use AI to create content, are you letting it speak for you or are you making sure your true voice comes through? Are you just taking what AI gives you, or are you shaping it until it actually sounds like you? In this episode I share how you can use AI as a tool to amplify your authenticity instead of losing it, and why your own words and your customers’ feedback are the real secret to standing out from the generic crowd. Listen to this new 9-minute episode for practical ways to make AI work for your brand while keeping every word truly yours. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Summary In this episode, I tackled the thought-provoking question: can we truly be authentic in an AI world? The conversation focused on the challenges and opportunities of using AI in our wedding businesses, especially when it comes to making sure our unique voices still shine through. One concept discussed was the temptation to simply use whatever AI generates on the first try, but I emphasized that real authenticity comes from multiple revisions and ensuring the final content genuinely represents who we are. I shared my own experiences with editing books using AI, pointing out how even if the words start as mine, it often takes several iterations before the finished version sounds like me. A key theme that emerged was the power of using reviews—specifically, taking customer feedback and allowing AI to identify the language and results that set your business apart. Several points were raised, including the importance of talking about the unique results and experiences we provide, rather than just listing products and services. I highlighted how most businesses in our industry end up sounding the same, and encouraged listeners to leverage the authentic voice of customer reviews to stand out. The discussion explored practical ways to integrate AI as a helpful tool rather than a substitute for our own expertise. I talked about bringing transcripts from my presentations into AI as raw material, ensuring the content remains rooted in my authentic voice and ideas. Authenticity, I stressed, is about ownership—reading every word before it goes out to make sure it represents you and is something you could stand behind and confidently discuss at any moment. Ultimately, I want you to use AI as a tool that makes your work more efficient, not generic. Tools like Word and Excel may help us get the job done, but the final responsibility for authenticity and ownership always rests with us. I hope this episode inspires you to embrace AI thoughtfully, always ensuring what you put forward is truly yours. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

October 12, 202638 min

Robert Kennedy III - The power of language

Are you telling stories that truly connect with your clients, or are you just rattling off your resume? Are you painting a vivid picture of success for a couple’s big day, or jumping straight into a sales pitch and wondering why you’re not closing the deal? In this guest episode with Robert Kennedy III, we get into how asking the right questions, understanding what your couples do—and don’t—want, and relating stories to their experience can transform your sales conversations and website into powerful connection tools that drive action. Listen to this new episode for ways to deepen connection through storytelling, ask better questions, and use the power of language to convert conversations into bookings. About Robert: Robert Kennedy III wants to live in a world where people are no longer afraid to confidently tell their stories...and they can also eat Reese's Peanut Butter cups for every meal without any repercussions. His work as a keynote speaker and trainer in the area of leadership communication has led him to work with organizations such as the US Coast Guard, Barnes & Noble, Social Security Administration, Panda Restaurant Group, AARP, T-Mobile, and UNCF as well as appearances on Fox, CW and other networks. He is involved in his community through various boards including the school boards, Association for Talent Development Maryland Chapter, youth leadership programs and helping non-profits conduct mock interviews. He is also a professional member of the National Speakers Association. Contact Robert: LinkedIn Profile: http://www.linkedin.com/in/robertkennedy3 Instagram Handle: @robertkennedy3 TikTok Handle: @realrobertkennedy3 Personal/Company Website: http://www.robertkennedy3.me Other Social Media Links (YouTube, etc): YT – http://www.youtube.com/robertkennedy3 If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ In this episode I had a lively and insightful conversation with my friend Robert Kennedy III all about the power of language in the wedding and event industry. We dove into why the words we choose and the way we structure our conversations can make a huge difference in sales and client relationships. Robert shared his expertise on storytelling, breaking it down into four essential elements: context, characters, conflict and conclusion. He explained how using stories isn’t just about once upon a time but about clearly painting pictures for clients so they feel understood and involved. We talked about practical strategies like the importance of asking better questions instead of launching straight into product pitches. Robert shared how asking open-ended questions sparks the client’s imagination and engages their brain on a deeper level, helping them see themselves in their dream event. I loved his example about distinguishing between transactional questions and those that create a vivid vision of success, such as asking a bride to describe how she wants to feel and look at her wedding. Robert also highlighted how reframing questions, such as exploring what a client doesn’t want, can prevent missteps and uncover important details. We explored the role of empathy, sharing stories of previous clients with similar challenges, and the difference this makes in building connection and trust. He pointed out that while information transfer is important, true transformation happens when we connect emotionally with our clients. We also discussed language on websites and email, using examples like Warby Parker to show how to share an origin story that draws readers in and relates directly to their experience, instead of just listing credentials. As the conversation wrapped up, we tackled the common stumbling block of asking for the sale and how fear of rejection often gets in the way. Robert provided actionable tips for guiding clients to the finish line by painting a clear picture of next steps and always creating a call to action. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone in the wedding or event industry who wants to level up their communication, create deeper connections and ultimately drive better business results through the power of intentional language and storytelling. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

October 7, 202612 min

The Curse of Knowledge Strikes again!

Are you making assumptions on your website or with your business that only make sense because you already know how everything works? What gaps in communication could be tripping up your customers? In this episode I share a real travel story that highlights how easy it is to overlook info that seems obvious to us but might be totally unclear to our clients. I dive into ways to discover these hidden friction points and offer ideas for making every step as clear and straightforward as possible. Listen to this new 10-minute episode for ideas on spotting and fixing those hidden gaps that could be costing you business. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Episode Summary In this episode, I dive into a personal travel experience to illustrate the concept of the curse of knowledge and how it can create unnecessary friction for customers. While recounting some frustrating moments during my return from France specifically issues with unclear information about an airport hotel shuttle I break down how easily we can overlook the challenges our clients face when we assume they understand industry details that are second nature to us. I give concrete examples from my own business and website, such as subtle coupon code fields and the lack of explicit calls-to-action, to show how easy it is to miss important customer touchpoints. I encourage listeners to look at their own websites and processes through fresh eyes or partner with a colleague to do so, catching gaps in communication or usability that could be turning away potential clients. By highlighting the dangers of relying on implied knowledge, I underscore the importance of being thorough and explicit with information whether it’s the true nature of an airport shuttle or the steps to book a venue tour. My hope is that this episode will inspire listeners to reduce friction wherever possible, making it easier than ever for couples to choose and work with them. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com

September 30, 202613 min

Where do you find your inspiration?

Is your best inspiration coming from inside your industry, or are you missing out on ideas from the outside world? Do you pay attention to friction you experience as a customer and ask yourself how you could fix that in your own business? Are you making things easier for your customers, or just for yourself? In this episode, I share stories and questions to help you recognize when and where real inspiration can strike, and how opening your eyes to everything around you can help you get ahead of the pack. Listen to this new 11-minute episode for practical examples and fresh ways to find inspiration where you least expect it. If you have any questions about anything in this, or any of my podcasts, or have a suggestion for a topic or guest, please reach out directly to me at Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com or visit my website Podcast.AlanBerg.com Please be sure to subscribe to this podcast and leave a review (thanks, it really does make a difference). If you want to get notifications of new episodes and upcoming workshops and webinars, you can sign up at www.ConnectWithAlanBerg.com View the full transcript on Alan’s site: https://alanberg.com/blog/ Summary In this episode, I take a deeper look at where inspiration comes from in the wedding business and why it's essential to intentionally seek it out beyond your immediate circle or local market. I share insights gained from a recent conversation with my friend Isaac Atkinson, who credits much of his success to investing in personal education, attending conferences, and exposing himself to diverse perspectives. I emphasize how stepping outside your "small pond" can be eye-opening, allowing you to connect with people at various stages in their careers, from seasoned experts to those just starting out. This exchange of ideas creates a two-way street for inspiration, whether it comes from those with more experience or from observing newcomers' fresh approaches. I dive into practical examples of how everyday experiences can become sources of inspiration, especially when you pay attention to the friction points you encounter as a customer. I talk about how noticing these pain points in my own experiences led me to make specific changes in my business, such as improving the way I provide downloadable resources and making my email signatures more user-friendly. I give the example of how a seemingly minor detail like a non-clickable image in an email signature can create unnecessary hurdles for clients and how fixing these little things shows a commitment to customer experience. I also challenge listeners to examine their own customer journey, asking whether they are truly aware of where friction exists in their business and how small, thoughtful changes can make a big impact. I share stories of frustrating experiences with impersonal AI systems and lengthy contact forms, explaining why sometimes reducing friction means disregarding what might be convenient for the business owner and focusing first on what makes things easier for the client. Throughout the episode, I encourage seeking inspiration from outside your industry as well as within, whether it's through books, conferences, or simply by observing exceptional service in unrelated fields. I discuss how capturing bursts of inspiration—no matter when or where they occur—can lead to creative breakthroughs that give you a genuine advantage. The ultimate message is that by remaining curious and observant, and by consistently striving to improve both small interactions and big systems, you can set your business apart and better serve your clients. Come to an AI workshop near you and learn how to use 5 or 6 different AI tools, in ways you've probably never thought of. Go to www.AIWorkshopTour.com to see the one nearest to you. I'm Alan Berg. Thanks for listening. If you have any questions about this or if you'd like to suggest other topics for " The Wedding Business Solutions Podcast " please let me know. My email is Alan@WeddingBusinessSolutions.com. Look forward to seeing you on the next episode. Thanks. Listen to this and all episodes on Apple Podcast, YouTube or your favorite app/site: Apple Podcast: http://bit.ly/weddingbusinesssolutions YouTube: www.WeddingBusinessSolutionsPodcast.tv Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3sGsuB8 Stitcher: http://bit.ly/wbsstitcher Google Podcast: http://bit.ly/wbsgoogle iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/31C9Mic Pandora: http://bit.ly/wbspandora ©2025 Wedding Business Solutions LLC & AlanBerg.com