Automation Unplugged Podcast
Automation Unplugged is a Facebook Live show recorded weekly with our host Ron Callis, Owner and CEO of the digital marketing agency, One Firefly. In each Automation Unplugged episode, Ron speaks with leading industry personalities and technology professionals to discuss all things business development, technology trends, and more. These interviews are designed to help our clients and members of the custom integration industry keep up-to-date with the latest news as well as learn from experts in the field.
Episodes
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 Oram on Elevation.
About One Firefly
One...
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, this episode delivers practical st...
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 and entrepreneurship.
So settle ...
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 valuable pages.
- And how to boost y...
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 integration, design, or just love heari...
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, this episode delivers actiona...
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 stories from the field. Whether yo...
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 critical technician or sales r...
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, or just love great storytelling, t...
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 standout video content that’s t...
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 something for you.
So settle in...
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.
Listeners and viewers of this ...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, Matt and I discussed:
- How integrators can break through growth plateaus and build a business they love
- The three biggest constraints holding most businesses back — and how to solve them
- Why personal development and community are essential to long-term business success
Matt is thoughtful, transparent, and not afraid to ask the big, uncomfortable questions that spark real change. If you're building — o...
SHOW NOTES
This episode is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together she and Deby cover a lot of ground. Here are just a few things you’ll hear them dive into:
- How storytelling helps integrators stand out and build trust
- The common ways content falls flat—and how to avoid them
- Tips for finding your voice and making your message resonate
Plus, you’ll enjoy a fun “in or out” lightning round on some hot-button writing topics—everything ...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, Jaime and I covered a range of engaging topics, including:
- How he transitioned from a corporate career into entrepreneurship and what inspired him and his son to start Home IQ Solutions.
- The role of energy management in smart home design and how they are helping homeowners navigate Texas' unique energy challenges
- How they are building strategic partnerships with architects, designers, and builders to dri...
SHOW NOTES
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
- Paul Starkey, Co-Founder & Partner of PrepTECH
- And Rebecca Sternlicht, Corpor...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, Travis and I covered a range of engaging topics, including:
- How he systematized his business for scalability while maintaining exceptional service in a demanding, luxury vacation market.
- Why he’s a firm believer in local service and how he navigates challenges posed by out-of-town integrators.
- His take on AI tools like Perplexity and how they’re reshaping how he runs his business day-to-day.
I really...
SHOW NOTES
You’ll hear from me as I guide you through several key topics, including:
- How the introduction of AI has impacted search engine optimization and page one rankings
- The rise of zero-click search results and how to show up in them
- What EEAT stands for — experience, expertise, authority, and trust — and why Google uses it to rank your content
- And how to optimize your Google Business Profile and other online directories to inc...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, Jesse and I discussed:
- How Midtown is elevating executive video and streaming setups
- Award-winning immersive projects in education and retail
- Jesse’s journey from hands-on technician to company leader
Jesse brings energy, expertise, and a refreshing sense of humor to everything he does. Whether you're running a family-owned shop or scaling a growing AV firm, there’s something in this episode for you.
...
SHOW NOTES
Here’s what’s coming up in today’s episode:
- Why storytelling beats sales pitches on social
- How video is dominating in 2025—and how to get started
- Kali’s takeaways from her attendance at this year's Social Media Marketing World
Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up your social media strategy, this episode is packed with practical takeaways.
Let’s dive in—here’s Automation Unplugged with Kat Wheeler a...
Popular Podcasts
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
My Favorite Murder is a true crime comedy podcast hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark. Each week, Karen and Georgia share compelling true crimes and hometown stories from friends and listeners. Since MFM launched in January of 2016, Karen and Georgia have shared their lifelong interest in true crime and have covered stories of infamous serial killers like the Night Stalker, mysterious cold cases, captivating cults, incredible survivor stories and important events from history like the Tulsa race massacre of 1921. My Favorite Murder is part of the Exactly Right podcast network that provides a platform for bold, creative voices to bring to life provocative, entertaining and relatable stories for audiences everywhere. The Exactly Right roster of podcasts covers a variety of topics including historic true crime, comedic interviews and news, science, pop culture and more. Podcasts on the network include Buried Bones with Kate Winkler Dawson and Paul Holes, That's Messed Up: An SVU Podcast, This Podcast Will Kill You, Bananas and more.
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.