Automation Unplugged Podcast

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

March 4, 2026 74 mins

SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Phil, Pat, and I discussed:

  • Their 35-year journey from a startup to one of Hawaii’s most respected integration firms
     
  • How they’ve built a lasting company culture through honesty, teamwork, and strong community roots
     
  • Their vision for the next generation, including mentoring future leaders and transitioning ownership to their team
     

Phil and Pat’s story is one of resilien...

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SHOW NOTES

This episode is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together she and Adam dive into:

  • How to identify the AI tools that actually make a difference
  • Simple ways to automate repetitive marketing and reporting tasks
  • And why the future of business success is built on AI plus human collaboration
     

Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or looking for smarter ways to integrate it into your day-to-day, you’ll walk ...

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SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Tony and I discussed:

  • Seura’s evolution from outdoor TVs to its leadership in mirror technology
     
  • Why lighted mirrors are becoming a must-have in luxury homes and hospitality spaces
     
  • The importance of “no fear selling” and building trust with clients to deliver personalized, high-value solutions
     

Tony brings a powerful mix of industry knowledge, grassroots sales experience, and a passion for showing i...

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SHOW NOTES

We cover:

  • Why “design consultant” beats “contractor” — and how charging for consultation and design services can instantly elevate your role with trade partners
  • How to use consistency, credibility, and branding to build trade relationships that actually pay off
  • You’ll also hear tactical ideas you can put to work right away, like CEUs, lunch-and-learns, and strategic gifting

Visit the episode page on our website to ge...

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SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Joe and I discussed:

  • His transition from integrator to manufacturer — and what he’s learned on both sides of the industry
  • The importance of innovation, education, and fair collaboration in product development
  • And how technology and design are converging to shape the next evolution of the smart home

Joe brings a genuine enthusiasm for innovation and a deep commitment to helping the industry grow. So s...

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SHOW NOTES

This episode is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together she and Stephen dive into:

  • Real-world scenarios where sales and marketing either collaborate or clash
  • How shared goals and open communication help both teams win
  • Practical steps integrators can take this quarter to strengthen alignment

It’s a lively, fun, and insightful conversation—with plenty of takeaways for integrators looking to maximize both their marketing in...

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SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Tom and I discussed:

  • What's new at Lightapalooza 2026 in Austin, TX: Education and certifications, education tracks and speakers, show floor exhibitors, and more.
  • Plus: How to save 25% on conference registration.

If you’re attending Lightapalooza this year, be sure to connect with the One Firefly & Amplify People teams while you’re there. We’ll be on the show floor meeting with dealers, and we’re al...

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SHOW NOTES

This episode is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together she and Andrew explore:

  • What separates a company that lives its values from one that just lists them on a website
  • How intentional leadership creates thriving teams
  • And why investing in people is the smartest business strategy of all

If you’ve ever struggled to hire the right fit, keep your culture strong as you scale, or lead your team with more purpose, this conver...

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SHOW NOTES

In this episode, Carley and I discussed:

  • How thoughtful design and technology can beautifully coexist
  • The importance of early collaboration between designers and integrators
  • And Why lighting and wellness are the next frontiers in smart home design

Carley brings creativity, warmth, and a fresh perspective on where our industry is headed. Whether you’re passionate about design, lighting, or redefining the custom integr...

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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 episodes, sent feedback, and supporte...

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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 multiple locations, this conversati...

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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 offers both insight and inspiratio...

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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, and a true heart for collaborat...

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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 steps to transform your marketing b...

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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 legacy and future growth.

Ari’s jour...

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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 Sternlicht, Corporate Marketing Lead at One Fi...
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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, community, and good food in Portla...
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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, you’ll walk away with new idea...

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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 conversation is for you.

Let’s dive in! 

 

...

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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 leaders today. Whether you’re ...

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