For April Fools, the Grit Won’t Quit podcast pulled a fast one—and it might just be the best episode yet.
In a surprise twist, Anthony Battle takes over as host and puts the usual host, Tom Mirabella, in the hot seat. The result? A wildly entertaining, insightful, and laugh-out-loud interview that covers everything from AI in marketing to the future of Wingman Planning—and yes, plenty of “Battle Knows Best” wisdom gets dropped along the way.
From the very first “cheers” in the Belmar, NJ studio, you know this episode is going to be different.
A Wingman Origin Story
Tom shares the real scoop behind Wingman’s early days (spoiler: it wasn’t his mom’s kitchen), revealing how a corporate job gave him the itch to build something better. He started out solo, building websites from his dining room—and now he’s running a full-service marketing agency with offices in both Manasquan and Belmar.
Anthony puts it best: “You started with a printer and now you’re dominating.”
Let’s Talk AI (And Why It Won’t Replace Humans)
The conversation naturally drifts to one of the hottest topics in marketing: AI.
Anthony offers a grounded take: AI might replace some tasks, but it can’t match human creativity. Tom agrees and expands on the idea—yes, AI will change how businesses operate, but it also opens up new roles and efficiencies. The key? Use it as a tool, not a total takeover. Real strategy, branding, and connection still need the human touch.
“I’m not ready to let AI run all of Wingman’s social,” Tom says. “Jenna still needs to review it and make sure it fits our voice.”
(Shoutout to Jenna, by the way—best photographer in the game.)
The Future of Wingman: Franchising & Expanding
Big news: Wingman is franchising. The goal? Bring the same energy, creativity, and marketing firepower to local towns everywhere. Think more open-concept storefronts, community-focused marketing hubs, and personalized service that mom-and-pop businesses crave.
The model is simple: Let people who love connecting and networking run their own Wingman, without needing to handle all the behind-the-scenes production. As Tom puts it: “Wingman is for the people.”
What Business Owners Need to Hear
Anthony gets real, asking Tom what small business owners should be doing more of. The answer? Getting on camera, staying active on social, and being the face of their brand.
“People connect more when the owner is front and center,” Tom says. “The more authentic and natural, the better.”
Whether it’s social media, events, or just being present in the community, the businesses that show up win.
Events, Networking & Big Energy
The duo also dives into Anthony’s love for hosting events—from cornhole competitions to sold-out networking nights. One of the most exciting ideas teased? A networking pub crawl via trolleys through downtown Manasquan or Belmar. (You heard it here first.)
But at the heart of all the events is a simple mission: bring people together. And it’s working—connections are being made, leads are flowing, and communities are growing stronger.
Giving Back with the Wingman Foundation
Tom closes things out by sharing the impact of the Wingman Foundation, which supports local families through toy drives, food donations, and community events. Last year alone, Wingman helped over 500 families enjoy Thanksgiving dinner.
“This is home,” Tom says. “We want to grow with you, support you, and make your business better.”
Final Thoughts
Battle knows best—and this episode proves it. Tune in for the laughs, stay for the insights, and don’t miss what might be the most fun episode of Grit Won’t Quit yet.
This podcast was filmed at Wingman Planning in Belmar, NJ.
