Automation Unplugged Podcast

SHOW NOTES We talk about: Key highlights, milestones, and moments that shaped One Firefly in 2025 The successes we’re most proud of this past year and the challenges that tested us and helped us grow How AI is influencing our business today and what it means for One Firefly as we head into 2026  Before we dive in, I want to take a moment to say thank you to everyone who has listened, shared episod...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Steve and I discussed: How Liaison scaled from a single market to a national presence Lessons learned from acquisitions and building strong company culture And how the Lighting Dojo is empowering integrators to elevate their craft Steve brings passion, experience, and a true builder’s mindset to everything he does. Whether you’re growing your first team or managing mult...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Kris and I discussed: How Red5 helps clients navigate security in an increasingly connected and vulnerable world Why smart home tech and AI-powered devices are reshaping the threat landscape And the mission behind Fox Bravo Overland and its impact on the lives of those who serve Kris brings a rare blend of operational expertise and personal passion, and this episode off...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Kayla and I discussed: How the Certified Showroom Dealer program helps integrators grow visibility and engagement in their local markets Her three P’s of event success — planning, process, and promotion And how relationship-driven marketing and authentic leadership are transforming dealer partnerships across the industry Kayla brings fresh energy, big-picture strategy,...

SHOW NOTES This conversation is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together they explore: How AV integrators can smooth out feast-or-famine sales cycles Why starting with revenue goals is the smartest way to set your marketing spend And how to measure ROI so every dollar works harder for your business Whether you’re aiming for steady revenue or aggressive growth, this episode offers practical, proven step...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Ari and I discussed: How Sonance continues to innovate, from architectural speakers to their recent expansion into amplifiers and pro audio with Blaze Audio. Why Ari believes AI is a tool to empower people—not replace them—and how his team is building custom apps and automations to streamline workflows. The importance of culture and leadership in shaping Sonance’s legac...

SHOW NOTES During this panel, you’ll hear from: Myself — Ron Callis, CEO of One Firefly Matt Bernath, President of VITAL, LLC Joseph Kolchinsky, CEO of OneVision Resources David Warfel, Founding Designer of Light Can Help You Mark Langston, Partner & Chief Lighting Advisor of Light Can Help You Jason Sayen, Founder of I Am Sayen Josh Christian, CEO of Home Technology Association And Rebecca Sternl...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Kathleen and I discussed: Her lifelong connection to the AV industry and how it shaped her leadership style What it means to advocate for integrators inside a global company like Sony The innovations driving Sony’s CI business, from projectors and receivers to cutting-edge RGB backlight technology And how she balances corporate leadership with her passion for creativity...

SHOW NOTES This episode is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together she and Cameron dig into: The difference between metrics that matter and vanity stats you can ignore How automation and CRM integration can boost efficiency and client experience And common mistakes to avoid when measuring marketing ROI Whether you’re just starting to track your marketing or looking to sharpen the way you use your CRM,...

SHOW NOTES Together, we explore: Why physical marketing still resonates in a digital-first world How LuxePost combines luxury creative with data-driven targeting and digital tracking And how integrators can use this approach to elevate their brand and generate quality leads If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out with affluent clients or create marketing that truly feels luxurious, this conversat...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Isar and I discussed: Why most leaders are still in the early stages of AI adoption Practical ways integrators and small-to-medium businesses can start using AI right now How AI will reshape customer service, design, and operations in the near future Isar brings clarity, energy, and actionable insights that cut through the hype and show what AI really means for business...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Chris and I discussed: How culture, process, and profitability fuel growth at Acoustic Design Systems Why marketing and fun, engaging content have become cornerstones of the Acoustic Design Systems brand The future of integration, from lighting and panelized systems to service revenue and M&A Chris’s journey is a candid look at what it takes to scale an integration busi...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Chris and I discussed: The evolution of HiFi Buys from a neighborhood shop to a destination for music lovers across the Southeast Why cultivating entry-level customers is just as important as serving high-end audiophiles How YouTube, events, and a passion for education are expanding the store’s reach and building community Chris’s journey is a reminder that Hi-Fi is abo...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, we talk about my journey building One Firefly over the past 18 years, lessons learned from both wins and setbacks, how to spot greatness in others, and why letting go is key to growing as a leader. We also touch on how remote work, innovation, and AI are transforming the way we serve our clients and our teams. So without further ado, here’s my conversation with Chris Or...

SHOW NOTES This conversation is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together they discuss: Why follow-up is the missing link between clicks and customers The common traps integrators fall into—like assuming interest or lacking a clear process And how to use tools like CRMs and automation without losing the human touch Whether you’re trying to improve speed-to-lead or get better ROI from your campaigns, thi...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, John and I discussed: The strategy behind building both AV and electrical divisions How industry peer networks have impacted his growth journey. How family and resilience have shaped his leadership style John’s journey highlights what it takes to build a resilient business in a fast-changing industry. His insights are a must-hear for anyone passionate about integration...

SHOW NOTES You’ll hear from me as I guide you through several key topics around on- & off-site SEO, including: Best practices for writing unique, keyword-rich page titles, meta descriptions, and header tags for your website that clearly convey each page’s purpose to Google and searchers. Aligning your online content to the buyer’s journey to guide both visitors and search engines through your most...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Andres and I discussed: His journey from teenage AV enthusiast to leading a global integration firm Maxicon's approach to gifting as a  business development technique The culture of curiosity and innovation that drives his team forward Andres brings an inspiring mix of entrepreneurial passion, global perspective, and commitment to excellence. Whether you are in integrat...

SHOW NOTES This conversation is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together they explore: Why so many AV dealers struggle to develop a clear marketing strategy Common mistakes like copying competitors or rushing ROI expectations And How to build a balanced, long-term marketing plan that actually drives results Whether you’re overwhelmed by digital platforms or simply ready to fine-tune your marketing game...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Jay and I discussed: His evolution from startup founder to leading a luxury smart home brand in Beverly Hills The unique demands of serving high-profile clients with discretion and excellence His experiences on national TV and overseas with the USO, bringing AV to military bases Jay brings an incredible mix of entrepreneurial grit, creative vision, and unforgettable sto...

SHOW NOTES In this webinar, we’ll cover: Why we created Amplify People and how we differ from traditional recruiters The components of our service offering — what’s included, our flat-fee pricing, and ongoing partnership guarantees What it’s like to work with us: client responsibilities, communication expectations, and ensuring a smooth, collaborative process Whether you’re struggling to fill that...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, David and I discussed: His journey from drummer and studio builder to integration business owner   His role transforming Modern Drummer Magazine for a digital-first world   And how AI, immersive sound, and blockchain are reshaping media David brings passion, precision, and a rare ability to connect the creative with the technical. Whether you’re in integration, music, o...

SHOW NOTES Here are just a few things you’ll hear them dive into: When to stop DIYing and bring in outside help The marketing tasks integrators should always delegate—and the ones that are still worth doing in-house How agency support has helped Wipliance stay ahead of SEO changes, AI, and evolving customer expectations Plus, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how Melissa’s team creates their...

SHOW NOTES In this episode, David and I discussed: Why lighting is still a massive untapped opportunity for integrators The challenge of scaling lighting knowledge in the industry How mentorship and partnerships can help fill the gap David brings insight, honesty, and a deep passion for light. Whether you’re just getting started with lighting or ready to take it to the next level, this episode has...

SHOW NOTES In our hour-long session, we cover: How to define your Ideal Customer Profile (ICP) so every piece of content attracts your best-fit clients Conversion-content principles — like loss aversion, authority, and reciprocity — that guide prospects to take action after reading your content Practical tips for writing articles, emails, and social media posts that spark engagement and inquiries....