GenX built the systems everyone’s now trying to automate — and that’s exactly why we’re built for what’s next. In this episode, I’m joined by Michael Himmelfarb , one of the original corporate escapees, to talk about why the real opportunity with AI isn’t automation…it’s augmentation . Michael shares how he rebuilt his consulting business by combining AI efficiency with human judgment, creativity, and experience — proving that the GenX advantage lies in knowing how to apply wisdom to new tools. You’ll learn: How to blend AI with your experience to create faster, smarter offers Why augmentation beats automation for consultants, advisors, and fractionals How to sell outcomes, not titles — and why buyers care more about value than ever Why your corporate scars, empathy, and critical thinking are your new superpowers If you’re a GenX pro still in corporate (or newly escaped), this conversation will show you how to use AI to amplify your expertise — not replace it. Guest Michael Himmelfarb — Pricing & product marketing strategist helping companies modernize pricing/packaging with AI-augmented consulting . Connect on LinkedIn and mention this episode for his 48-hour sprint details. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhimmelfarb/ Resources mentioned • Anthropic’s “automation vs. augmentation” idea (discussion) • Shout-out: Naveen Aggarwal (technical enablement/automation support) For GenX Escapees Grab the Escapee Starter Kit : https://stan.store/thecorporateescapee Join Escapee Collective Plus : https://escapee-collective.circle.so/checkout/escapee-plus-subscriptions Chapters • 00:00 Welcome back, OG Escapee + today’s focus • 01:29 From fractional CMO to pricing & packaging specialization • 03:53 The buyer shift: clarity, speed, and specific problems • 04:22 The 20/80 idea: what humans do that AI can’t • 07:40 Automation vs. augmentation (and why it matters) • 10:33 Hybrid delivery: standardized outputs + human judgment • 12:25 Human superpowers: creativity, prediction, empathy • 14:09 Beyond pricing: applying the model across functions • 15:45 Productized sprints → recurring revenue possibilities • 17:23 Big-firm disruption and the GenX advantage • 19:33 Learning curves, iteration, and avoiding “prompt pack” hype • 26:13 Focus, trade-offs, and building a simple offer • 30:28 Shout-outs & resources + workshop idea • 31:30 Michael’s ask + how to connect If this episode hit home Share it with a fellow GenX pro, leave a quick review, and DM Brett if you want the link to the free Starter Kit PDF or details on Michael’s sprint.
