How Podium arms local businesses with AI agents using Open AI’s GPT 5.1

Introducing Jerry 2.0: The First AI Employee Built for Real-Time Customization

Podium is redefining what’s possible for local businesses with the launch of Jerry 2.0—the first fully customizable AI employee built to operate in real time. Featured in a new OpenAI case study, Jerry 2.0 showcases how Podium’s use of GPT-5.1 is unlocking remarkable growth for local companies, driving ~30% more revenue and boosting lead conversion by 45%.

Building on the success of the original Jerry—credited with influencing billions in revenue for over 10,000 businesses—Jerry 2.0 represents a breakthrough in personalization and operational intelligence. Designed for industries such as Automotive, Home Services, and Medspas, this next-generation AI agent mirrors the unique voice, workflows, and expertise of each business it serves.

AI Studio provides full control and immediate feedback, a Trainer Agent that updates behavior in under 60 seconds, and advanced multi-playbook navigation, Jerry 2.0 empowers business owners to fine-tune every interaction without an engineering degree. From qualifying trade-ins and triaging emergency repairs to managing aesthetic consultations and upsells, Jerry 2.0 performs like a true team member—consistent, scalable, and deeply knowledgeable.

As Podium CEO Eric Rea puts it, “Our engineering teams are on-site everyday with auto dealers, HVAC providers and Medspa owners to build solutions that make them more money. Our latest release does just that by having incredible industry expertise out of the box while also adapting to the unique way each owner runs their business”.