Back in 2023, like many others, I recognised that artificial intelligence, while around for more than half a century, was gaining momentum and poised to change the world. At first, I realised it would change marketing. But as I watched its evolution, read the research, followed the experts, and listened to countless podcasts, I asked myself a powerful question:
“So Joanne, what are you going to do about it?”
That question led me here. In February 2025, I committed to showing up six days a week to create this podcast. Truthfully, I made that commitment long before then in my own head. And now, as we reach the end of May 2025, you’re listening to episode 100. Whether you’ve been here from the beginning or just dropped in, thank you. I’m almost at 2,000 downloads, and while that number might be small by some standards, this podcast is a labour of love.
So why did I start this podcast?
1. To Help My Tribe
I’m a teacher, a practitioner, a consultant working with marketers in the public sector, radio, and leadership roles. I knew they’d be asking me questions about AI. And I knew I needed to have the answers.
To stay relevant and deliver real value, I had to move early—and I had to move first. This podcast is my way of moving. Of putting myself out there, learning in public, and sharing that knowledge with those who trust me.
2. To Position Myself
Let’s be straight. If I want to survive and thrive in the AI age, I need to pivot, too. This podcast is part of that pivot. Positioning myself as an authoritative voice means putting in the work, learning, studying, and experimenting before I ever hit record.
But once I hit record, it becomes a flywheel. Visibility, positioning, credibility, and above all, usefulness. That’s the goal.
And no, it’s not a mass market podcast. It never was meant to be. I’ve never chased big numbers. I’ve always focused on relevance. If you build a relevant audience, conversion becomes easier. Impact becomes greater. That’s what matters.
3. To Keep Myself Up To Date
This one’s selfish. I’m keeping you up to date, but I’m also keeping myself up to date. I’ve built a daily habit of learning, testing, and teaching AI. Monday to Saturday, I’m thinking and talking about AI.
Saturday is the “long lesson” – a 20 to 25-minute interview with someone shaping the AI landscape. Every other day? A six-minute solo episode packed with insights.
Why six minutes? Because it’s doable. And I’m a slave to my calendar. I travel, I consult, I join marketing teams on the ground—and I needed a format that could fit into my unpredictable days. This is what works.
If I had to add a bonus reason?
Well, maybe it’s this:
I’m building something for the long haul. Not just a podcast, but a body of work. A movement. A community of marketers and communicators who don’t want to be left behind in the AI age.
This is how I learn. This is how I teach. And this is how we grow—together.
🎉 AI Six Podcast Giveaway! 🎉
To celebrate 100 episodes of The AI6 Podcast, I’m giving away a limited edition tote bag that says:
“AI is in the future. You are.”
How to Enter (It’s Easy!)
- Post about the AI Six Podcast on LinkedIn, Instagram, X, or TikTok.
→ It can be a quote, a takeaway, your favourite episode, or just a shout-out! - Tag me and use #AISixPodcast so I can find your entry.
That’s it. You’re in the draw!
Bonus Entry
Share a photo of where you listen to the podcast—commute, office, walk, wherever—and tag it with #AISixPodcast.
About the Podcast Host
Joanne Sweeney is a specialist in public-sector marketing and digital communications. She’s the author of Public Sector Marketing Pro and the creator of the Professional Diploma in AI for Public Sector Marketing. With years of experience in training, consulting, and advocating for digital transformation, Joanne provides insight and guidance for government agencies navigating the digital landscape. She is also the host of the award-winning Public Sector Marketing Show podcast.
