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, 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...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, we covered:
- How expanding into electrical work is helping Bethesda get involved in projects earlier.
- The power of peer collaboration and how Michael’s affiliate network drives innovation.
- Why focusing on design and lighting has reshaped how clients and partners see his team.
Michael also talks about the changing role of integrators in smart home design, how tariffs and economic uncertainty are impact...
SHOW NOTES
Here’s what’s coming up in today’s episode:
- How One Firefly evolved from an engineering services firm to the leading marketing agency for integrators.
- How AV marketing has shifted from basic websites and email to SEO, social media, and AI-drive strategies.
- The biggest marketing mistakes integrators make and how to fix them.
Plus, I’ll share why storytelling is more important than ever, and my predictions for where AV...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, we covered:
- How Rich is leveraging smart tech to transform apartment living and streamline property management
- Why he chose to implement EOS to scale his business and empower his team
- The importance of leading with service, honesty, and vision when selling technology
You’ll also hear Rich talk about how faith guides his business decisions, why healthy conflict is essential for growth, and how a minds...
SHOW NOTES
In this webinar, we’ll cover:
- How to navigate 2025’s volatile economy without losing visibility
- Quick-win tactics like targeted Google Ads and branded van wraps to drive immediate leads
- Foundational plays like SEO and events that build lasting momentum
Visit the episode page on our website to get the audio recording, full transcript, and video of the original webinar. Now let’s tune in and learn how you can make your...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, we covered:
- The journey of a family-run business transitioning into a national powerhouse
- How wresting and crossfit has helped them to live healthier lives and in turn, increased work place productivity
- Strategies for growth, leadership, and staying at the forefront of an ever-changing industry
Without further ado, let’s tune in to my conversation with Bryan and Marc Rizzo.
SHOW NOTES
In this webinar, we’ll cover:
- What effective onboarding really looks like — and what it’s not
- How to start creating a structured 30-60-90 day onboarding plan for new hires
- And actionable tips for creating a welcoming environment and preparing your existing team and new hires for success
Whether you’re onboarding your first employee or looking to refine your existing process, you’ll find valuable takeaways in today’s ...
SHOW NOTES
For this milestone episode, Lee and I covered some great topics, including:
- How Wipliance has grown into multiple markets and the impact of lighting and shading on their success
- How Wipliance uses video content to educate clients and strengthen industry relationships
- Their work on the historic Taliesin West Frank Lloyd Wright home, in partnership with Lutron
I appreciate you joining us for this special episode. Wheth...
SHOW NOTES
In our chat, Sam shares valuable insights on:
- How to build a sustainable talent pipeline.
- The power of company culture, mission, and values in attracting top talent—and how to communicate them effectively.
- How integrators can think outside the box when sourcing candidates, from leveraging industry networks to monitoring layoffs in tech and retail sectors.
If hiring is on your mind this year, this episode is packed wi...
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