Episode 31: Fake It Like a Hotshot — The AI‑Made Marketer Problem
AI has officially made it easier than ever to look like a marketer… even if you’ve never built a strategy, talked to a customer, or run a campaign in your life. In this episode, James and Jeff break down the rise of the “AI‑generated marketer” — the copy‑paste creators, the prompt‑engine experts, and the folks who think a chatbot makes them a CMO.
The guys have a brutally honest, funny, and insight‑packed conversation about what real marketing actually requires: positioning, differentiation, audience psychology, testing, iteration, and the kind of judgment no AI can fake. If you’re a founder, creator, or marketer trying to stand out in a world drowning in generic AI content, this episode gives you the clarity and edge you need.
You’ll learn:
And as a massive bonus…
🎵 We’re debuting the world premiere of Jeff’s brand‑new theme song: The Connector. 🎵 You’re hearing it here first.
If you want to think smarter, market sharper, and avoid becoming another AI‑made “marketer,” this is your episode.
Queue it up and learn how to stop faking it and start marketing like a Hotshot.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#MarketLikeAHotshot #AI #WordPress #WebDesign #DigitalMarketing #MarketingTips #SmallBusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #JVFMusic
Episode 30: Motivate Yourself Like a Hotshot
We’re kicking off 2026 with a different kind of Hotshot episode — one focused on motivation, mindset, and the real challenges entrepreneurs face behind the scenes. This isn’t the highlight‑reel version of success. This is the honest, supportive, “let’s get real for a minute” conversation that so many founders need at the start of a new year.
James and Jeff talk about the ups and downs of staying motivated, especially during the cold, gloomy stretch of winter when comparison, pressure, and self‑doubt tend to creep in. They share personal stories, what’s helped them push through tough moments, and why motivation isn’t about being fired up every day — it’s about showing up, building habits, and surrounding yourself with the right people.
This episode is packed with practical tips, mindset shifts, and real‑world encouragement to help you start 2026 strong. If you’ve ever felt behind, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, this conversation is for you.
Disclaimer:
This episode touches on motivation and general well‑being. We’re not mental health professionals, and nothing in this episode should be taken as medical or therapeutic advice. If you ever feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or find yourself thinking about harming yourself or someone else, please reach out for help right away — talk to your doctor, someone you trust, or a local hotline in your area. You don’t have to go through tough moments alone, and getting support is a strong and courageous step.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#MarketLikeAHotshot #SaaS #WordPress #WebDesign #DigitalMarketing #MarketingTips #SmallBusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife #Motivation
Episode 29: Win 2026 Like a Hotshot
In this New Year’s kickoff episode, Jeff and James look back at 2025—the year they built the plane while flying it. No perfect plans, no overthinking… just two founders figuring things out in real time. And somehow, that messy, agile approach carried them all the way to Episode 29.
They’re also laying it all out for 2026. Jeff and James share their New Year’s resolutions, the big moves they’re planning, and the mindset shifts they’re bringing into the new year. Plus, they make bold predictions about what founders, marketers, and creators need to watch for in 2026.
And as always, you’re getting the real thing. This podcast isn’t edited (with a few tiny exceptions). No filters, no polishing—just the raw conversation, the excitement, the passion, and the occasional chaos that makes Market Like a Hotshot what it is.
If you want honest insights, practical strategies, and a front‑row seat to two founders gearing up to win the year, this is the episode to start 2026 with.
Queue it up and let’s win 2026 like Hotshots.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#MarketLikeAHotshot #SaaS #WordPress #WebDesign #DigitalMarketing #MarketingTips #SmallBusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife
In this festive episode of Market Like a Hotshot, Jeff and James dive into the real secret behind standout marketing: the personal touch. From choosing between personal vs. business social accounts, to balancing real outreach with AI tools, drip campaigns, and automation, the Hotshots break down how to stay human in a world full of bots.
All of this is happening while a wild New England windstorm knocks down trees, telephone poles, and the power for half the neighborhood, proving once again that sometimes the most “automated” thing in your life is your generator.
And because it’s the holidays, Jeff and James also reveal their very different opinions on the Feast of the Seven Fishes. One of them loves it. One of them had to escape the dinner table. You’ll have to listen to find out who’s who.
If you want practical insights, good laughs, and a reminder that real connection beats perfect automation every time, this is the episode to queue up next.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#MarketLikeAHotshot #SaaS #WordPress #WebDesign #DigitalMarketing #MarketingTips #SmallBusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife
Episode 27: Own It Like a Hotshot
Are you renting your online presence—or truly owning it? In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, Jeff and James reveal why relying only on social media is like renting an apartment, while building a website is like owning prime real estate.
You’ll discover:
With practical strategies and real‑world analogies, this episode will change how you think about your digital marketing foundation. Listen now, own your presence, and market like a hotshot.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#MarketLikeAHotshot #SaaS #WordPress #WebDesign #DigitalMarketing #MarketingTips #SmallBusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife
Episode 26: Convert Like a Hotshot
Ready to master lead conversion and turn prospects into paying clients? In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, Jeff and James break down the sales funnel step by step, showing business owners how to sharpen their client acquisition strategies and boost business growth. From diagnosing funnel leaks to designing irresistible offers, you’ll get actionable marketing tips that make conversion feel natural, confident, and fun.
And because this is Market Like a Hotshot, you’ll also get plenty of laughs. Between Jeff’s uncanny ability to make James crack up mid‑conversation, the overwhelming flood of requests to be guests on the show, and the sheer number of shoutouts we dish out, this podcast proves that marketing wisdom doesn’t have to be boring.
So tune in to hear two Italian guys who love to chat, riff, and drop hotshot‑level marketing wisdom. By the end, you’ll be ready to convert like a Hotshot — and laugh along the way.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#MarketLikeAHotshot #LeadConversion #SalesFunnel #ClientAcquisition #BusinessGrowth #MarketingTips #SmallBusinessPodcast #FunBusinessPodcast #EntrepreneurLife
Episode 25: Converse Like a Hotshot
Balancing Human and AI Interaction in the Marketing Lifecycle
AI is transforming marketing at lightning speed. But where should humans lead, and where should machines accelerate? In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, Jeff and James break down the entire marketing lifecycle (research, strategy, creative, execution, and optimization) to reveal how to strike the perfect balance between human intuition and AI innovation.
You’ll discover:
Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode will show you how to scale smarter with AI while staying connected through human touch.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth #AI #MarketLikeAHotshot #AImarketing #marketinglifecycle #generativeAI #marketingpodcast.
Episode 24: Connect Like a Hotshot
Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward, transactional, or like a stack of business cards you’ll never look at again. In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, James and Jeff break down how to make meaningful connections at networking events that actually last.
You’ll learn:
This is more than networking advice — it’s about marketing yourself with heart, creating bonds that feel good, and walking away from events with genuine allies instead of just contacts.
Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or professional looking to grow your circle, this episode will help you connect like a hotshot and make every networking opportunity count.
Tune in now and discover how to transform your next event into a place of real connection, joy, and opportunity.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth #KnowYourWorth #MarketLikeAHotshot
Episode 23: Influence Without Followers
Tired of chasing likes and follower counts that don’t translate into real business? In this episode of Market Like a Hot Shot, Jeff & James break down why influence isn’t about vanity metrics and is actually more about reputation, trust, and the conversations happening behind the scenes.
We dive into the dark funnel, the hidden world where buying decisions are made long before anyone clicks “follow.” You’ll learn how to spot the hidden power players who drive referrals, how to turn clients into megaphones for your brand, and how to build credibility that spreads in private spaces like Slack groups, mastermind circles, and community chats.
Are you a small business owner, entrepreneur, or service provider who want to grow without obsessing over social media numbers? Then this episode is for you! It's packed with actionable marketing tips as we show you how to:
• Build trust that spreads invisibly.
• Create advocates who recommend you in conversations you’ll never see.
• Anchor your credibility with events, podcasts, and insights that move markets.
If you’ve ever thought, “Why doesn’t my follower count match my actual influence?” then this episode is your wake‑up call.
Stop chasing numbers and start building the kind of reputation that wins deals, grows businesses, and lasts.
#SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth #Influence #DarkFunnel #MarketLikeAHotShot
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #PricingStrategy #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth #KnowYourWorth #MarketLikeAHotshot
Episode 23: Influence Without Followers
Stop chasing vanity metrics — start building the kind of reputation that actually moves markets. Jeff & James break down the “dark funnel,” hidden power players, and how to turn clients into megaphones for your brand.
Why Your Marketing Strategy Should Come Before Sales Hiring
Hiring a sales team before you’ve nailed your marketing strategy? That’s like trying to drive a car with no gas! In this episode, Jeff and James break down why marketing isn’t just a nice-to-have. It’s the foundation for sales success!
We get into:
Whether you're scaling a startup, refining your go-to-market strategy, or trying to align sales and marketing teams, this episode gives you the clarity (and fuel) to do it right.
Grab your bagel, your hot chocolate, or whatever fuels your genius, and hit play to Strategize like a Hotshots!
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #PricingStrategy #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth #KnowYourWorth #MarketLikeAHotshot
Price It Like a Hotshot: Stop Undervaluing Yourself & Start Charging What You’re Worth
Are you stuck second‑guessing your prices or discounting just to land the deal? In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, James pulls back the curtain on pricing psychology—and shows you how to flip fear into confidence.
You’ll discover:
This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about identity, boundaries, and building a business that respects your worth. If you’re ready to stop apologizing for your prices and start owning your value, this episode is your blueprint.
Hit play and learn how to price with purpose, protect your value, and profit like a hotshot.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#SmallBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #PricingStrategy #MarketingTips #BusinessGrowth #KnowYourWorth #MarketLikeAHotshot
Market Like a Hotshot – Episode 20: Measure Like a Hotshot
Most businesses are drowning in numbers that don’t matter. Impressions, likes, followers… they look good on paper, but they don’t pay the bills.
In this episode, we expose the myths that keep entrepreneurs stuck and show you exactly what to measure if you want real growth. You’ll discover:
• The 5 biggest lies about marketing metrics (and the truths that will save you money)
• The “Hotshot Measurement Stack” that turns chaos into clarity
• Think you know which channel is working? This episode will make you question everything you thought you knew about ROI
If you’re ready to stop guessing, stop chasing vanity metrics, and finally see which marketing dollars are actually working, this episode is your wake‑up call.
Your Hotshot Challenge: Pick one revenue‑driving metric this week, track it, and watch your decisions sharpen overnight.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Delegation #Leadership #CompanyCulture #SmallBusiness #StartupLife #MarketLikeAHotshot
Think posting on social media is just about showing up every day and shouting “look at me”? Think again. In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, we dive deep into posting strategies that actually work for marketers, entrepreneurs, and business owners who want to grow their audience without burning out. And what did Jeff say about #TaylorSwift ?
We cover:
And as a bonus… does James finally rat out his least favorite hosting company? You’ll have to listen to find out.
If you’re ready to stop guessing and start posting with purpose, this episode will give you the clarity, confidence, and a few laughs along the way. Perfect for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and marketers who want to market smarter, not louder.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Delegation #Leadership #CompanyCulture #SmallBusiness #StartupLife #MarketLikeAHotshot
Hiring the right people can make or break your business growth. In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, Jeff and James dive deep into the art of building a winning team.
Jeff, drawing on his expertise as a recruiter, shares proven strategies for spotting top talent and avoiding costly hiring mistakes. James opens up about his real‑world experiences bringing new people into JVF Solutions, including the lessons learned along the way.
Whether you’re a startup founder, small business owner, or entrepreneur ready to scale, this episode will give you practical insights on:
If you’re serious about scaling your business, you can’t afford to miss this conversation. Tune in and learn how to hire like a hotshot.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #opentowork #Delegation #Leadership #CompanyCulture #SmallBusiness #StartupLife #MarketLikeAHotshot
Ready to stop running your business solo and start building something bigger?
In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, James & Jeff pull back the curtain on how they scaled from solopreneurs to true business owners. They share the real strategies that helped them grow—building systems, creating standard operating procedures (SOPs), expanding their teams, mastering delegation, and shaping a strong company culture.
You’ll also hear about their recent experience at Venture Café in Cambridge, where they connected with other entrepreneurs and innovators who are scaling their own ventures.
If you’ve ever wondered how to move from “doing it all yourself” to leading a thriving business, this episode is packed with insights you can put into action.
🎧 Tune in now and learn how to scale like a hotshot.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com
#Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #ScaleYourBusiness #Delegation #Leadership #CompanyCulture #SmallBusiness #StartupLife #MarketLikeAHotshot
Bad service kills trust. Great listening builds loyalty. Inthis episode of Market Like a Hotshot, James and Jeff break down the real‑world difference between brands that ignore their customers and businesses that win by tuning in.
Jeff shares a jaw‑dropping story about a roofing companythat completely blew it, while James recalls a restaurant experience that shows how fast poor listening can sink a reputation. Then they flip the script with powerful examples of listening done right: James explains how he earns trust byhelping people recover after their websites are hacked, and Jeff reveals how active listening fuels growth in his health and wellness business.
If you want to attract more clients, keep them coming back,and market like a true hotshot, this episode is packed with lessons you can’t afford to miss.
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
We now have Merch!
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
In the ’90s, knowing how to search the internet was a game‑changing skill. Today, mastering AI prompts is the next frontier and it’s more than just asking questions. In this episode, James and Jeff explore how the right prompts can help you think clearer, work faster, and make more effective decisions in business and beyond.
You’ll discover:
Whether you’re curious about ChatGPT, looking to streamline your workflow, or ready to push your creativity further, this episode is packed with practical strategies, cautionary notes, and inspiration to help you prompt like a pro.
Listen now and start turning AI into your competitive advantage
Ever wonder why some musicians with average talent top the charts… while true virtuosos play to empty rooms? Or why a flashy gadget with so-so performance outsells a technically superior competitor?
The secret isn’t always in the product—it’s in the hype. In this episode of Market Like a Hotshot, we’re pulling back the curtain on how marketing, storytelling, and perception canturn the ordinary into the unforgettable. Whether you’re selling music, tech, or your own expertise, we’ll show you how to build buzz that sells.
This is Episode 14: Hype It Like a Hotshot! Let’s turn up the volume on your marketing game.
Episode 13 – Live from a Packed House: Small Business Marketing Q&A
For the first time ever, Market Like a Hotshot went live—recorded in front of a buzzing, standing‑room‑only crowd of entrepreneurs, small business owners, and marketing professionals hungry for actionable insights. In this special live marketing podcast episode, we answer real‑time questions on:
We also share behind‑the‑scenes updates on the future of Market Like a Hotshot—including upcoming marketing tips, branding strategies, and content ideas designed to help you grow your business.
If you’ve ever wished you could be in the room with us, this is the next best thing: high‑energy, real‑world marketing advice, local business growth strategies, and practical tips you can put into action today.
James:
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
Jeff:
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
Market Like a Hotshot:
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
Market Like a Hotshot – Episode 12
"Who Really Owns Your Brand?"
If you think you own your brand… think again.
In this week’s episode, Jeff and James go deep into one of the most overlooked, and most dangerous, blind spots in business: the moment your customers decide your brand belongs to them.
From the Cracker Barrel logo controversy to Disney Parks’ bold changes, from the nostalgia of Saved by the Bell to the infamous New Coke disaster, we break down real-world examples of brands that underestimated the emotional equity their customers had invested… and paid the price.
Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode:
Whether you’re running a small business, scaling an agency, or steering a global brand, this episode will give you the frameworks and real-world case studies to protect your brand equity while still moving forward.
Because here’s the truth: Your logo, your products, your messaging — they may be yours legally, but emotionally, they belong to your customers. Ignore that, and you risk losing everything you’ve built.
Don't forget: Market Like a Hotshot LIVE! is happening on September 3rd at the Framingham State Innovation Center in Framingham, MA. Seats are filling quickly! Reserve yours now!
Register for the event here: https://business.metrowest.org/events/details/market-like-a-hotshot-live-business-after-hours-11420
Stream more episodes of Market Like a Hotshot on Spotify, or wherever you get podcasts!
Stay up to date with your favorite hotshots!
#crackerbarrell #savedbythebell #DisneyD23 #DisneyWorld #marketing #podcast
James
@jvfsolutions on Instagram
https://jvf.com
Jeff
@aimcbizhealth on Instagram
https://aimcbizsolutions.com
Market Like a Hotshot
@marketlikeahotshot on Instagram
https://marketlikeahotshot.com