At the July RMX event, attendees were treated to insights from two exceptional speakers who offered distinct perspectives on AI. Both speakers delivered engaging presentations that captivated the audience.
Gus Balbontin opened the event on Wednesday afternoon. Originating from the rugged landscapes of Patagonia, Balbontin’s journey is marked by his rise from modest beginnings to leading Lonely Planet on a global scale. After arriving in Australia at 17, he left university by 22, embarked on a hitchhiking journey through South America, launched his first venture, and eventually joined Lonely Planet. His tenure there saw him collaborating with major corporations on cutting-edge technology and innovative cultural projects.
Balbontin is known for his engaging storytelling, infectious energy, and a refreshingly unconventional worldview that inspires and motivates. While his provocative comments about AI potentially replacing agents may have sparked debate, his core message was straightforward: AI itself is not a threat; the real danger lies in failing to adapt to technological progress. He sees AI’s development as a natural extension of the long-standing trajectory of technological evolution. According to Balbontin, there is always ongoing work to advance existing technologies. AI has been quietly improving lives and displacing jobs for some time, though its effects have only recently become more apparent.
On Thursday, Josh Cobb took the stage. As a digital marketing expert and founder of Stepps, Cobb is recognized for revolutionizing the real estate industry with his insights, particularly in the integration of AI into business practices. His provocative statement, “AI won’t replace agents, but agents using AI will,” set the tone for his discussion, framing AI as a tool to accelerate processes and gain a competitive edge. Cobb highlighted the importance of using time efficiently, noting that while everyone has the same amount of time, AI offers a significant speed advantage, freeing up more time for human interaction. He emphasized that no one is truly an expert in AI and that adaptability is key in the face of its evolving landscape. Cobb advised staying curious, experimenting wisely, and remaining open to discomfort.
Both speakers underscored the necessity of ambitious thinking and integrating innovative, forward-thinking strategies into real estate planning. While Balbontin focused on the potential disruption AI could bring, Cobb emphasized how it could enhance agent performance. Together, they conveyed that AI, rather than being a threat, is a powerful tool for progress that can help agents work smarter, enhance personal connections, provide valuable insights, and automate routine tasks.
