311. Why Real Connection Matters More Than Ever in the Age of AI with Deanne Fitzpatrick

311. Why Real Connection Matters More Than Ever in the Age of AI with Deanne Fitzpatrick

From Creative Shop Talk with Wendy Batten by Wendy Batten, Creative Retail Mentor

June 1, 2026 · 29 min · Season 6 · Episode 311

About this episode

Wendy Batten and Deanne Fitzpatrick discuss the importance of real connection and authenticity in business amidst the rise of AI.

With host retail coach Wendy Batten https://wendybatten.com/podcast-intro/ Episode Overview In this episode, I sit down with my friend Deanne Fitzpatrick of Deanne Fitzpatrick Rug Hooking Studio for an honest and raw conversation about AI, authenticity, and what it means to run a meaningful business. We talk about the parts of AI that feel helpful, the parts that feel icky, and why trust and real connection matter more than ever for small business owners. As business owners who have both embraced technology over the years, neither Deanne nor I are anti-AI. But we are cautious and curious about how it's changing what feels like pretty much everything. We share our thoughts on where AI has the ability to support small business owners. We also chat about where we draw the line with AI when it comes to content, creativity, and showing up for our audiences. This conversation is really about staying grounded in what makes our businesses valuable in the first place: real people, real relationships, and building a community through connection. Our Key Topics Authenticity and trust are becoming more important as AI-generated content grows What feels helpful versus "icky" when it comes to…

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