• Awake in the Network Best of 2024
    Dec 16 2024

    Want to get a lot of content in the shortest amount of time? Join John as he shares three of the best shows of 2024. Enjoy a hot cup of cider, coffee, or tea and cozy up on a couch while you will to those who are "Awake in the Network!"

    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    40 mins
  • Awake in the Network with Author James Cogan
    Dec 9 2024

    James' professional journey began at age 20, when he took a cosmic leap, teaching British Literature at a private school in London. Homerically returning stateside, he decided he didn't want to grade papers, so he moved to LA and became a waiter instead. Back in his hometown of Chicago he applied for a gig at the Chicago Recording Company (having fudged just a bit on a resume--stating he 'worked for' the top three LA studios, when in fact he had never set foot in a recording studio).

    He nearly got fired-repeatedly-but quickly rose through the ranks to become the top jazz recording engineer in the city for two decades (that would be 80s and 90). Village Voice named two albums he recorded in the 1980s among the Top 50 Jazz Albums of the Decade.

    Concurrent with recording legendary Chicago jazz artists, Cogan was hired to teach audio at Columbia College Chicago. In three years, he became full time faculty in the Audio Arts Department.

    A book on the legendary recording studios of America, Temples of Sound (Chronicle Books, 2003) followed. Boasting a forward by Quincy Jones, Temples became an instant classic. Fans include Paul McCartney, Alicia Keys, Paul Shaffer (Late Night With David Letterman) Kanye West, Faith Hill and many more.

    In the early aughts, Cogan changed course. He became, almost by accident, a Yogi. Garnering certification and experience, he opened the doors to his very own yoga studio, The Yoga Shop, in 2012, despite having zero experience as a brick-and-mortar business owner. At the same time, he obtained his Masters' Degree in Health and Wellness from DePaul University.

    Cogan is now poised to go further and higher, finally realizing his dharma. His first solo book, Rampant Douchebaggery, The Death of the American Gent, will be released Spring of 2024. Twenty-two essays fill out an incendiary book that teems with uncomfortable topics, like the pornification of America; "wokeness" (ugh); the 'Hunger Games with Emojis' culture of Online Dating; and the frightening rise of the Manosphere.

    James is available for your next intriguing Podcast, Workshop or Speaking engagement.

    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    51 mins
  • Awake in the Network Welcomes Leadership Advisor and Coach Bert Allen
    Oct 30 2024

    Bert Allen possesses a valuable combination of Private Equity and public company executive experience. CEO’s and their leadership teams, across a broad range of industry sectors, value Bert as acoach and trusted confidante. Bert has a demonstrated passion for coaching clients to drive business results by maximizing individual performance and team effectiveness. In a forward-looking manner,

    Bert gains the trust of his clients for their immediate and long-term success. He engages clients by asking penetrating questions to unlock more of their potential. They gain broader perspectives and insights, developing solutions for success through his interactive approach.

    As a result of his coaching, his executive clients improved their skill in the following areas: holding others accountable; communicating effectively to key stakeholders including the Board of Directors, private equity sponsors, senior leadership, peers or team members; and building productive work relationships across the enterprise.

    Additionally, Bert facilitates client team meetings to improve group effectiveness and to assist senior leaders in formulating the business plans for their organizations.

    Join us as we jump in and get Bert’s perspective on what his work can show us how to be more . . . Awake in the Network: Where Destiny Happens!

    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    50 mins
  • Awake in the Network Welcomes Dawn Kristy, JD, AI and Cybersecurity Advisor
    Oct 23 2024

    Today, we're thrilled to have the esteemed Dawn Kristy joining us. Dawn is a seasoned expert in the field, with a wealth of experience in emerging risks and cybersecurity.

    Dawn is also a seasoned expert on emerging risks, having experienced pollution, product liability, and professional liability risks.

    As a new lawyer, Dawn entered the insurance world at Cigna’s Environmental Pollution Unit in Philadelphia, then worked abroad for 12 years in a solicitor’s firm and at global reinsurers Cologne Re and Zurich Re on all liability insurance lines.

    Back in the States, she worked on cyber risks and complex claims at insurance broker Aon and a startup cyber insurance broker.

    For the past 12 years, Dawn has focused on writing and training organizations on cyber risks, insurance, and security.

    As her publisher, Dawn and I worked together on her first book, 33 Ways Not To Screw Up Cybersecurity, a guide for business leaders and their teams to effectively address cyber threats.

    Dawn’s mission is to help businesses take informed action based on increased risk awareness.

    Dawn believes that if we can empower organizations with knowledge about emerging risks, they can move forward with confidence and clarity. Increased awareness and action help drive sustainable growth and ROI while improving safety and security.

    Since the launch of generative AI and “the age of AI,” she has focused on her passions: research and writing.

    In Q4 of this year, Dawn is also working on creating a course and her second book. Stay Tuned!

    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    51 mins
  • Awake in the Network Welcomes Mike Dexter
    Oct 9 2024

    Mike Dexter, a native of Detroit, Michigan, has lived a life dedicated to serving others. As the founder and former senior pastor of Love of Christ Christian Center, Mike has used his life experiences to deliver God's word and help restore marriages and heal families.

    Mike's journey began in the streets of Detroit, where he and his brother Billy navigated through challenges like gangs and drugs. Despite the difficulties, Mike found his calling early on. At just 14 years old, he started a Bible study for younger kids in his neighborhood, using cookies and milk as an incentive to get them interested.

    This early experience shaped Mike's future. He went on to earn a bachelor's degree in communications from Eastern Michigan University and became deeply involved in community and civic organizations. Most notably, Mike serves as the deputy chief in the Detroit Police Chaplain Corps, providing leadership to over 90 chaplains who serve more than 2,500 police officers.

    Mike's commitment to serving extends beyond his formal roles. He founded a chapter of Authentic Manhood in Metro Detroit, holding meetings at 6 a.m. on Saturdays. Despite the early hour, men flock to these meetings, eager for the information and guidance Mike provides. He likens these dedicated attendees to "God's special forces."

    Throughout his life, Mike has focused on breaking cycles of poverty and violence in his family and community. He and his brother Billy made a conscious decision to end generational curses that had plagued their family for years.

    Mike's experiences and insights have led him to write a book titled "Created for Purpose, Understanding Your Life's Assignment." The book explores how God shapes individuals for a specific purpose and helps readers discover their own life assignments. Mike believes that true fulfillment comes not from success as defined by society, but from living out one's purpose.

    In Mike's words, "Your occupation is what you get paid for, your vocation is what you're made for." He encourages people to find the sweet spot where they get paid for what they're made for, emphasizing that when you find your fulfillment, external measures of success become less important.

    Mike's story is a testament to the power of purpose, faith, and community service. His book promises to guide readers on their own journey of self-discovery and purposeful living, drawing from the rich well of Mike's experiences in Detroit, his ministry, and his work with law enforcement and community organizations.

    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    48 mins
  • Awake in the Network Welcomes Kristi Zuhlke, Founder | CEO | Technology | Generative AI for Insights
    Oct 2 2024

    Join us for a vibrant conversation with Kristi Zuhlke, a seasoned marketing professional turned successful tech entrepreneur. Kristi began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she significantly grew household brands like Gillette and Always.

    Discover how her desire to tackle real-world problems spurred her transition into entrepreneurship. Since then, she has founded three tech companies and achieved two impressive exits.

    In this episode, we delve into Kristi's experiences and her current venture – an AI-driven platform that helps people curate and preserve their most cherished memories. Get ready for an engaging discussion on embracing change, carving new paths, and harnessing cutting-edge technology to make a meaningful impact on people's lives.

    Don't miss this opportunity to learn from an industry leader and be inspired by Kristi's unwavering passion for innovation and problem-solving.

    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    54 mins
  • Awake in the Network Welcomes Valentina Escobar-Gonzalez
    Sep 26 2024

    Join us with Valentina Escobar-Gonzalez, a seasoned marketer, social media strategist, serial learner, speaker, and marketing educator specializing in helping individuals and their businesses build authentic connections with their social media to boost customer relations and create a strong, purposeful community online. She also deeply understands digital content, social media platforms, social listening practices, and digital marketing strategies, with over ten years of experience in the world of social media.

    As a co-author of “The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever,” she collaborated with over 35 fellow marketers to give you their combined top strategies. She has been featured in multiple podcasts on her website and won several prestigious awards throughout her marketing career.


    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    45 mins
  • Journey into the Future: Where AI Meets Human Ingenuity 🎙️ Tune in to the podcast that's taking the tech world by storm! 🚀
    Sep 18 2024

    Are you ready to embark on a mind-bending journey where cutting-edge AI intersects with real-world wisdom? Look no further! Our podcast is your ticket to the frontline of innovation, hosted by industry titans who are shaping the future as we speak.

    🌟 What makes us unmissable?

    • Exclusive Insights: Hear from the brilliant minds behind "The Journey" - a groundbreaking book years in the making.
    • Laugh and Learn: Experience the perfect blend of wit and wisdom as our hosts, including the quip master John, serve up knowledge with a side of humor.
    • Real Talk, Real Impact: We dive deep beyond the surface, offering heartfelt discussions that resonate with tech enthusiasts and novices alike.
    • Growing Community: Join over 1,000 listeners who are already part of this bi-weekly revolution!
    • Your Potential Spotlight: Who knows? YOU might be our next featured guest!

    🔮 What's in it for you?

    • Gain insider knowledge on navigating both the AI landscape and the "real world"
    • Expand your network and connect with like-minded innovators
    • Stay ahead of the curve with cutting-edge discussions and predictions

    Don't just listen to a podcast - be part of a movement. Tune in, turn on, and tech out with us every other week. Your journey to the future starts here!

    🎧 Subscribe now and share with a friend - let's double our tribe of tech trailblazers!


    Connect with Billy @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/billydexter/
    Connect with Melissa @ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissagwilson/
    Connect with John @ https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-st-augustine-1b3192/

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    55 mins