What happens when AI makes it easier than ever to start a business… but harder than ever to build trust?

In this episode of Small Business PR, Gloria sits down with 7 figure e-commerce founder and Online Store Success podcast host Jodie Minto to talk about what’s actually working for product brands in 2026 — from AI generated content and influencer marketing to trust, messaging, customer connection, and why so many brands are blending together online.

This is a grounded, honest conversation for small business owners who feel overwhelmed by AI, exhausted by content creation, or worried that everything online is starting to sound the same.

Inside this episode:
• how AI is changing e-commerce and online marketing
• why “perfect” brands are struggling to connect
• the trust crisis happening online right now
• how fake AI brands and copycat products are hurting customer trust
• what actually makes people buy from small businesses today
• how to use ChatGPT and AI tools without sounding robotic
• the difference between influencers who drive sales vs creators who make content
• why messaging clarity matters more than constantly creating new content
• the surprising content trends working right now on Instagram and TikTok
• how repetition helps brands get discovered in AI search and ChatGPT
• why human connection is becoming the biggest competitive advantage in business

Jodie also shares:
• the exact mistakes small business owners are making with AI generated content
• why audiences are craving more humanity, personality, and emotional connection
• how brands can stand out without becoming louder or more “salesy”
• what she believes the future of AI and small business looks like

If you’re a Shopify founder, Etsy seller, creator, coach, product based business owner, or anyone trying to grow a business online without losing your voice in the process — this episode is for you.

Want to get featured in media, build credibility, and grow your visibility—without hiring a PR agency?

In my free PR Secrets Masterclass, I walk you through the exact system small business owners use to land press, get into gift guides, and become known in their industry—without connections or expensive retainers.

Register here:
 www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass

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• Connect with Gloria Chou on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/gloriaychou 

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