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, 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...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, we discuss:
- Azione’s evolution and how it’s redefining what a buying group should be.
- Mergers & acquisitions in the CI space—what they mean for business owners.
- The power of community and education in helping integrators grow and scale.
Patrick’s passion for innovation and building strong industry relationships makes this a must-listen. So, sit back and enjoy my conversation with Patrick McCarthy. Le...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, we discuss:
- Extreme ownership in business and how Brad’s team lives by Jocko Willink’s leadership principles
- Navigating economic shifts with rising tariffs, shifting budgets, and staying ahead of industry challenges
- The power of peer collaboration and why networking with fellow integrators has been a game-changer for business growth
Brad shares some incredible insights on leadership, business strateg...
SHOW NOTES
During this episode, we’ll cover:
- The importance of regularly updating your website with new content, service offerings, and images, plus how frequently you should be making website updates
- Why integrators should have dedicated solutions pages on their websites to showcase current service offerings
- Six expert tips for dealers to make immediate improvements on their website
I really enjoyed this conversation, and I ho...
SHOW NOTES
In the webinar, we’ll cover:
- Strategies for creating a structured interview process, and the types of screens and interviews you may use to evaluate candidates
- The importance of evaluating for both skills and culture fit during interviews
- Tips on how to ask tough, insightful questions that go beyond surface-level responses and help uncover a candidate's true potential
Visit the episode page on our website to get the ...
SHOW NOTES
During the show, the conversation covered:
- Challenges and disconnects between sales, marketing, and leadership, and how to bridge the gap with better communication and collaboration
- The value of trade shows for business growth, and each department’s unique perspective on their primary goals: from sales looking to close deals, marketing looking to increase brand presence, and leadership looking to build strategic partner...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, we covered:
- How ProSource has grown into a leading group with nearly 600 members.
- Jim’s lessons from scaling businesses and navigating challenges.
- Tips for integrators to stay competitive with smart power and controlled lighting.
Jim’s expertise and vision for the future make this a must-listen for anyone in the integration industry. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with the one and only Jim Pe...
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