Human Decency in the Age of AI: Recruiting, Relationships & Real Talk with Matt Mann

Buckle up, Crazy People Podcast fans—Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann are back, and this time they’ve brought along a familiar face with a wealth of wisdom (and a few zigzags on the career path). Episode 55 welcomes Matt Mann, the global recruiter who’s not only helped companies hire in over 60 countries but also placed Russ and consulted Maurice in their own careers.

Watch the episodes on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/u1BgeFwFPAE

This isn’t your standard recruiting chit-chat. Matt takes us behind the curtain of an industry that’s been through whiplash-inducing shifts—from employer markets to employee markets, from pre-COVID chaos to post-COVID booms, and now into the uncharted waters of AI and automation. Together, the guys dig into the hard questions: How do you keep the human in hiring when algorithms and ATS systems threaten to strip the soul out of the process? What does “fit” really mean beyond the resume? And why is closing the loop—actually calling candidates back—one of the simplest yet most ignored acts of professional decency?

Between the insights are plenty of laughs, sports analogies, and personal stories—like the recruiter who ended up on the phone with Russ’s wife to prove the job was real, or the Queen-inspired Wayne’s World sing-along that proves authenticity never goes out of style. From cultural travel dreams to industry frustrations, Matt, Russ, and Maurice remind us that every “transaction” in business is really just a chance for connection, and that the right match is about more than skills—it’s about people.

Whether you’re a job seeker, a hiring manager, or someone who’s been ghosted one too many times, this conversation will give you perspective, practical takeaways, and a smile.

#CrazyPeoplePodcast #RussAndMaurice #MattMann #RecruitingLife #HumanInHiring #AIandRecruitment #CareerFit #NetworkingMatters #PodcastInterview #BusinessWithHeart

On Episode 54 of the Crazy People Podcast, things get savory, smart, and just a little unhinged in the best possible way. This week, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann sit down with Matt Wampler, co-founder and CEO of ClearCOGS, who went from slicing bread in the back of a Jimmy John’s to slicing up restaurant data for predictive insights—without ever losing his sense of humor, hustle, or humanity.

Matt is a former Jimmy John’s franchisee turned tech founder, but don’t let the suit fool you—he’s still got the restaurant grease under his fingernails and the entrepreneurial fire in his belly. In this episode, he opens up about his wild transition from running stores with overflowing toilets and no-shows on shift, to building a B2B SaaS company that’s helping restaurants across five countries predict exactly how much pulled pork to prep—or when to expect a mob of cupcake-loving book club moms.

From building his first startup with nothing but a co-founder, some code, and a pandemic-induced side hustle, to now raising half a million dollars to close his seed round, Matt takes us behind the scenes of what it’s like to blend data science, AI, and pure gut instinct into something that actually helps real humans make fewer mistakes and sleep a little better at night.

He talks candidly about the brutal difference between managing real-time chaos in a restaurant and the long, slow feedback loops of tech startup life. He shares the frustrations of learning to code (and unlearning the idea that everything has to be urgent), and the very real lessons he’s picked up from venture capitalists, including why you should always test your internal champion early in a sales process.

Along the way, we cover everything from Taylor Swift and Springsteen to Magic Johnson’s Starbucks empire, the logistics of Japanese trade shows, the trials of Harvard’s data science courses, and why raccoons on meth might be a perfect metaphor for your next dishwasher-loading strategy.

If you’ve ever worked in hospitality, dreamed of launching a tech company, or just love hearing how far curiosity, hustle, and a bit of calculated chaos can take you, this episode is for you. It’s fast-paced, full of unexpected wisdom, and—like any great dish—best served with a story.

So tune in, learn something new, and maybe next time you order a sandwich, you’ll wonder: Did AI help make this happen?

Join the conversation and share your thoughts using #CrazyPeoplePodcast #RestaurantTech #ClearCOGS #StartupStories #HospitalityAI #MattWampler #SmartKitchens #PredictiveData #AIinRestaurants and #StayCrazy.

Welcome back to another unforgettable episode of the Crazy People Podcast. In Episode #53, hosts Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann dive headfirst into a conversation that will leave you rethinking how we define talent, inclusion, and what it truly means to hire the right person. Their guest this time is Ron Fish—head of Talent Acquisition at software company Ivanti and a full-time advocate for accessibility and disability inclusion in the workplace.

Watch Crazy People Podcast episode #53 here: https://youtu.be/SKSNXC6Zy-4

Ron brings a fresh and deeply personal perspective to the world of hiring. With a background shaped by family experiences and a professional path forged in both global corporations and fast-moving tech firms, he’s on a mission to shift how companies view disability—not as a charitable checkbox, but as a powerful and often overlooked component of real diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. His stories are engaging, honest, and at times hilariously revealing (yes, someone really did show up to an interview in a full cow-print suit).

Throughout the conversation, Ron shares what sparked his obsession with accessibility, how his company discovered their own website was inadvertently excluding applicants with disabilities, and what it means to go from being “knee-deep” in DEI to being “all in.” Russ and Maurice explore everything from the biases hidden in interview processes to the surprising superpowers of Starbucks baristas, and the sobering truth that many DEI programs still fail to account for disability altogether.

They also cover the growing use—and misuse—of AI in hiring, what it’s like to build programs that don't require budgets but demand intention, and how hiring junior talent can open the door to entirely new ways of thinking. Ron’s passion is infectious, and his message is clear: if we truly want to build inclusive, innovative workplaces, we need to stop hiring people who look and think like us—and start recognizing the unique value that different perspectives bring to the table.

With humor, warmth, and a killer dad joke to close things out, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that being different isn’t a limitation—it’s an asset. And as always, Russ and Maurice keep it real, curious, and just crazy enough to make you want to hear more.

So tune in, share it with your hiring manager, and remember: the food on the moon may be great, but there’s no atmosphere—just like a workplace without true inclusion.

Don’t forget to follow along using hashtags like #CrazyPeoplePodcast, #DisabilityInclusion, #InclusiveHiring, #DEIwithPurpose, #RonFishTalks, #NeurodiversityAtWork, #AccessibleWorkplace, #IvantiInclusion, #CrazyGoodGuests, and #StayCrazy. #DEI #RussBroomell #MauriceHofmann

Episode 52 – The Crazy People Crew Show Is Back!

After a five-episode hiatus, your favorite dynamic duo is back behind the mics—and this time, it’s just Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann, unsupervised and unfiltered in Episode 52 of the Crazy People Podcast. Yes, it’s time for another Crew Show, and trust us: it's like therapy, but with more sarcasm, sci-fi, and tech tangents.

In this refreshingly real conversation, Russ and Maurice tackle the chaos of modern life, from the illusion of rapid change to the very real challenges of staying sharp in an AI-saturated world. They riff on everything from learning Python (spoiler: Maurice tried it, didn’t cry, moved on) to de-skilling dangers, pandemic-induced laziness, and why some of the best tacos are found in sketchy parts of town.

Russ opens up about personal growth, seasonality, and why reading fiction is now a form of rebellion. Maurice drops philosophical science nuggets inspired by Brian Cox and explains why being wrong should make us giddy. It's a wild ride through entrepreneurship, education, and emotional survival in a hyper-digital age—with a side of barbecue and a sprinkle of existential nerdiness.

Think of it as a motivational slap wrapped in dad jokes and delivered by two guys who’ve failed often enough to know what they’re talking about. This episode isn’t just a conversation—it’s a masterclass in embracing discomfort, outsmarting algorithms, and laughing your way through the hard stuff.

Catch it now—wherever you listen to your favorite shows. And if it hits home? Pass it on.

#CrazyPeoplePodcast #CrewShow52 #JustKeepMoving #AIisNotYourMom #StaySharp #HardThingsMatter #BarbecueWisdom #EntrepreneurLife #ScienceForTheWin #BeLessDumb #AI #contiuouslearning #training #executivelearning #marketing #sales #education

In this electrifying new episode of the Crazy People Podcast, Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann bring on a guest who’s not just ahead of the curve—he’s building it. Jay Talaviya joins us to share his story, and what a ride it’s been: from small-town India to chemical engineering, from climbing the corporate ladder at giants like Deloitte and Cox to founding a telehealth company that just might redefine how the world accesses care.

Jay’s story is a masterclass in curiosity, courage, and calculated risk. We explore how his deep roots in data and technology became the fuel for launching a company focused on virtual care—long before the world was forced to Zoom everything. He walks us through the challenges of entrepreneurship (including the terrifying realization that you now have to do sales) and the magic moments that make it all worth it. Whether he’s streamlining provider workflows through AI or helping patients get care in rural areas or crowded metros, Jay’s mission is clear: healthcare should be fast, accessible, and human.

As the conversation unfolds, we dive into everything from designing tech that your mom can actually use to building resilience when your startup roadmap starts looking like spaghetti. Jay even drops a few personal gems—his favorite Hindi tune, his dream vacation to nature, and the unexpected joy of hearing “thank you” from a client who almost ghosted.

If you’re into innovation that matters, tech with heart, and the kind of founder who still believes in helping people over chasing hype, this one’s for you.

Get ready for an episode that mixes business wisdom, startup grit, and just the right touch of human warmth. Jay Talaviya isn’t just building a product—he’s building a better future.

Find the episode wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to share it with someone who still thinks “telehealth” means FaceTiming your doctor from the kitchen.

#TelehealthRevolution #StartupLife #CrazyPeoplePodcast #JayTalaviya #DigitalHealthcare #FoundersJourney #HealthTech #AIInMedicine #FutureOfCare #FromDataToDoctors

Buckle up, folks—it’s the big 5-0! 🥳 Episode 50 of the Crazy People Podcast is here, and we're celebrating this milestone with nothing less than a mic-drop masterclass in real talk, resilience, and rock & roll. Your favorite dynamic duo—Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann—welcomes the ever-insightful, LinkedIn Top Voice and international sales whisperer, Niraj Kapur, to the virtual hot seat.

Watch the full episode #050 for this Crazy People Podcast here: https://youtu.be/62cNgu4Dmw0

If you thought sales was just about pipelines and CRMs, think again. Niraj takes us on a whirlwind journey from cassette-tape rockstar dreams to becoming a top-tier sales coach who’s traveled across continents to close deals, build human connections, and—not-so-subtly—shame everyone still using “Hope you’re well” as a cold open.

In this truth serum of an episode, Niraj doesn’t just talk sales—he deconstructs it, slaps a bow tie on it, and redefines what it means to show up. We dig into why most people suck at opening sales (and how to fix it), why authenticity trumps automation every time, and how a simple act of kindness or a personal visit can do what 10,000 LinkedIn impressions never will.

We talk ghosting (no, not dating—worse: client ghosting), the lost art of the follow-up, and why European and American sales tactics are like cold brew vs. espresso—similar, but very different vibes.

And Niraj doesn’t hold back. From his time hustling door-to-door after hitting rock bottom on welfare, to winning back market share one face-to-face meeting at a time, his story is packed with grit, grace, and glorious 80s rock energy.

He also shares the five crucial habits every young sales pro should master, why your phone addiction might be killing your career, and what it really means to build trust instead of transactions. Oh—and if you’ve ever wondered how teenage kids and cats are basically sales training bootcamps, this episode is your gospel.

You’ll laugh. You’ll learn. You might even cry a little. But most importantly, you’ll walk away with real tools to sell better, live deeper, and lead with heart.

So whether you’re a cold-calling rookie, a LinkedIn guru, or just here for Niraj’s Bruce Springsteen obsession—hit play and let’s get crazy.

#SalesWisdom #CrazyPeoplePodcast #RussAndMaurice #NirajKapur #AuthenticSelling #LinkedInTopVoice #SalesLeadership #ColdCallingIsNotDead #RockstarMindset #HumanConnectionMatters #RussBroomell #MauriceHofmann

Ready to make sales human again?

The Digital Defender: Internet Freedom's Unlikely Hero

Buckle up, listeners! Episode 49 of the Crazy People Podcast introduces you to the internet's behind-the-scenes superhero—Christian Dawson—whose business card might as well read "Professional Internet Savior" (if he could fit all his jobs on it).

Watch Crazy People Podcast episode #49 here: https://youtu.be/sDzKuTlzmw4

Hosts Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann dive headfirst into conversation with Christian, who isn't just co-founder of the Internet Infrastructure Coalition; he's the guy who shows up at congressional hearings with the digital equivalent of "Wait, you're holding that map upside down!" When lawmakers threaten to break the internet with well-intentioned but technically clueless legislation, Christian is the adult in the room gently explaining why the delete button isn't actually a good solution for complex tech problems.

From late-night philosophical debates over legendary chili dogs at Ben's Chili Bowl to explaining how a single handcrafted scarf accidentally launched an e-commerce empire (hello, Etsy!), Russ and Maurice guide Christian through a wild ride across the digital landscape most of us take for granted. Did you know languages are literally vanishing from the web? Or that your favorite websites might disappear overnight because of a regulatory hiccup? Christian does—and he's been losing sleep over it for decades so you don't have to.

And just when you think the conversation couldn't get more intriguing, Christian reveals what ChatGPT really thinks about you. Spoiler alert: it's eerily accurate and might make you question every website you've ever visited.

Whether you're a tech aficionado who knows your IP from your DNS, or someone who still refers to "the Google," this episode delivers equal parts entertainment, education, and existential crisis about our digital future—all with enough wit to make even the most complex tech concepts digestible.

Press play and discover why the internet's freedom fighters wear hoodies, not capes, as Russ and Maurice unravel the fascinating world of digital advocacy with one of its most passionate champions.

#CrazyPeoplePodcast #InternetFreedom #DigitalDefender #ChristianDawson #TechWithoutTears #OpenInternet #TechPolicy #ChristianDawson #I2Coalition #DigitalFreedom #SmallBizMatters #CyberSecurity #TechForGood #AIInsights

From NFTs to Bourbon Barrels: Chris Wiedmar’s Wild Whiskey Ride

The Crazy People Podcast is back, and we’re kicking off Season 3 in style! Hosts Russ Broomell and Maurice Hofmann welcome back Chris Wiedmar, the very first guest from our debut episode, to see what two years of wild entrepreneurial adventures have done to him. Spoiler alert: He's gone deeper into the whiskey world, and the stories he brings are smoother than an aged bourbon—but with plenty of unexpected twists.

Watch the Season 3 Premiere featuring Chris Wiedmar here: https://youtu.be/tyr2ywHJdzs

Remember Party Horses?

The NFT-meets-whiskey project that had people buzzing?

Chris spills the details on how that journey led to his latest venture, Hogshead, a cutting-edge whiskey marketplace designed to bring transparency to the high-stakes world of barrel trading.

Ever wondered why buying whiskey barrels is like navigating the Wild West? Chris has firsthand war stories, from near-million-dollar deals that evaporated overnight to industry secrets about how brokers operate like stock traders.

Beyond whiskey, we dive into why the bourbon industry is booming and crashing at the same time, the rise of spirits as alternative investments, and how global markets (India, China, and even Germany!) are ripe for disruption. Oh, and did we mention tequila is next on his list?

Whether you're a whiskey connoisseur, a startup junkie, or just here for the Crazy People energy, this episode is a masterclass in navigating industries, taking risks, and turning crazy ideas into reality. Buckle up—it’s going to be a smooth, high-proof ride.

#CrazyPeoplePodcast #Season3Premiere #WhiskeyBusiness #StartupLife #Entrepreneurship #NFTtoWhiskey #BourbonBoom #TequilaTakeover #ChrisWiedmar #HogsheadWhiskey