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, Corby and I discussed:
- Why trying to handle your own marketing and web design is often the worst business decision an integrator can make, especially when trying to scale.
- How shifting from "free courtesy support" to tiered recurring service contracts can transform your cash flow and strengthen client satisfaction.
- Why Micro LED technology is the most significant advancement since plasma and how ...
SHOW NOTES
During this webinar, you’ll hear from myself and Russell Warnhoff, Custom Integration Manager at Sony.
We cover:
- Why projection is still a profit engine — and how it competes in key ways against large TVs and direct-view video walls
- Why the Sony brand carries weight and how to use Sony’s “Lens to Living Room” storytelling to elevate your sales conversations
- How to actually market big-screen solutions using the bu...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, Doug and I discussed:
- How his background in luxury goods like wine and art allows him to connect emotionally with affluent clients and sell a lifestyle rather than just technical gear.
- The strategic challenge of scaling a business while maintaining the high-touch, personalized "owner experience" that luxury clients expect.
- Why he uses his viral social media presence as a form of "social proof" to...
SHOW NOTES
Host Ron Callis announces an exciting update to the Automation Unplugged lineup. Starting in June, the podcast's fourth episode each month will pivot from marketing segments to dedicated AI Insights. Join us as we sit down with industry experts to explore real-world AI use cases, practical applications for integrators, and what is actually working in the business world today.
To get the video announcement, visit: onefire...
SHOW NOTES
In this episode, Scott and I discussed:
- The evolution of his career from AV integration business owner, to 18 year career with Crestron and even a stint in the NASCAR sponsorship world all preparing Scott to build and lead his high-end lighting design studio
- Why lighting is a critical, high-growth vertical for integrators
- The realities of project management in the lighting space and why on-site co...
SHOW NOTES
We cover:
- What a true “luxury experience” looks like across multiple touchpoints — from your branding, imagery, and website to in-person showroom tours, events, and white-glove follow-up
- How to show up where luxury buyers are researching you online — including Google search, generative AI search, and social — and why unique, high-quality content and imagery matter more than ever
- Event and gifting strategies as po...
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...
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 ...
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...
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...
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...
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...
#340: Inside Lightapalooza 2026 with Tom Doherty — Education, Power, and What’s Next for Integrators
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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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