PODCAST · technology
Automation Unplugged Podcast
by Ron Callis
Since its launch on Facebook Live in 2017, Automation Unplugged has become the leading podcast for AV and custom integration professionals. Now pre-recorded and produced in both audio and video formats, episodes are released across our website, social media, and all major streaming platforms. Our content spans engaging interviews with industry leaders, in-depth discussions with One Firefly’s marketing experts, and insightful education on marketing & business growth strategies. From industry trends and business development to marketing, hiring, and beyond, Automation Unplugged delivers the knowledge and perspectives you need to stay ahead in the ever-evolving technology landscape.
Episodes
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#376: Rob Doherty on What Separates Winning Lighting Integrators
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Rob and I discussed: - The eight characteristics he sees in integrators who are winning with lighting - Why starting small, in your own home or showroom, leads to bigger projects - And How a lighting champion, lighting designers, and electrician relationships speed up...
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#375: Lighting for Life: Helping Homeowners Understand the Impact of Lighting on Health and Aging
SHOW NOTES We cover: How lighting impacts wellness, visual comfort, safety, and aging in place — and how dealers can confidently introduce these conversations with homeowners Practical conversation starters that help shift discussions away from products and specifications toward lifestyle…
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#374: Henri Beaudoin on Building a Luxury Integration Firm the Engineered Way
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Henri and I discussed: Why smaller projects have slowed down while high-end luxury work has held steady How keeping inventory in a 10,000 square foot warehouse kept Elite building through COVID supply delays And His rule of never promising a client anything his team...
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#373: Ian Williams on Putting AI to Work Across an Integration Business
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Ian and I discussed: The weekly business dashboard he built in Claude Cowork that lands in his inbox at 6:00 a.m. every Monday, covering KPIs, cash flow, backlog, and a 13-week forecast. Where AI shows up across his team, from technicians dictating daily project…
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#372: Curtis LeMaster on the Training Gap and the Future of the Smart Home
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Curtis and I discussed: Why he believes overselling and overpromising is the industry's most damaging habit, and what it looks like from a technician's side of the business His take on CEDIA Expo this year, including the training gap he keeps running into when he…
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#371: Patrick Martinez on Building Sales Certainty in Your Business
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Patrick and I discussed: The five sales roles every business has, and why an owner trying to cover all five statistically caps out between $1.5 and $2.5 million His sales certainty framework and the three things that get in the way And why fewer than 5% of technology...
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#370: Own the Night: How Integrators Can Go to Market with Landscape Lighting
SHOW NOTES We cover: Why landscape lighting is a natural extension of the custom integration business — and how dealers can add it without competing with builders or electricians Practical design, installation, and sales strategies, including recurring maintenance opportunities, partnering with...
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#369: Kayla Steinberg on Turning Events Into Your Best Business Development Tool
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Kayla and I discussed: The three Ps of event planning: planning, process, and promotion, and why most events fail on the first one How to set a real, measurable goal for an event before you touch a single logistics detail And why an omni-channel promotion strategy, not...
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#368: Jason Barth on Turning AI From Cheap Hacks Into Real Company Standards
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Jason and I discussed: Why AI felt like a pile of cheap hacks for a year, and what finally made it meaningful Building the foundation first: a common language document, a company taxonomy, and an org chart his AI tools can actually use How Premier structures its Claude...
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#367: Brian Perreault on 35 Years of Change, Growth, and Building Barrett's for What's Next
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Brian and I discussed: Why Barrett's built a separate small projects team, and how those smaller jobs still fuel cash flow and client loyalty. Their approach to educational events, from an AI workshop to a new lighting lab built for specifiers. What's next for the...
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#366: The AI Gold Rush Is Coming for Your Workforce
SHOW NOTES We cover: How the rapid expansion of AI infrastructure and data centers is creating unprecedented demand for skilled labor across the country The five pillars of workforce resilience, including employer branding, candidate experience, career development, culture, and proactive…
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#365: Robert Haecker of Triphase Technologies on 30 Years of Hard-Won Lessons
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Robert and I discussed: Why selling his company at age 30 turned out to be the best lesson of his career. How their showroom and light lab sell what a conversation never could. The in-house training program that cut ramp time for a job site lead from ten years to two....
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#364: Ask AI to Teach You AI — Mike Wilson's Playbook for Getting Started
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Mike and I discussed: How AI image editing helps his team solve real client challenges — from removing private artwork and family photos before sharing project images, to swapping out unlicensed content on screens. How he uses simple ChatGPT prompts to turn a…
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#363: How to Get Out of the Sales Seat — Ollie Tuffney's Blueprint for Building a Sales Machine
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Ollie and I discussed: Why founder-led sales eventually becomes the ceiling on your growth, how the "founder advantage" makes it unfair to expect your salespeople to sell like you do, and the path to getting off the hamster wheel. The five-pillar operating system Sales...
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#362: The Power of Vulnerability: Jason Zuniga on Peer Groups and Second Chances
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Jason and I discussed: How he scaled Austin Home Systems from a three-person shop to 26 employees and over $7 million in revenue. How reading Traction helped him define his target market of custom home builders and break through the million-dollar ceiling. Why joining…
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#361: The Authority Engine: Using Video, Case Studies, and Imagery to Prove Your Premium Value
SHOW NOTES We cover: How AI platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and Perplexity are changing the customer research journey — and why integrators need to rethink how they present themselves online The concept of EEAT — Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trust — and how businesses can use...
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#360: Speed, Precision, and the Business of Custom Integration with Jonathan Smith
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Jon and I discussed: How his experience in NASCAR shaped the way he approaches precision, pressure, troubleshooting, and entrepreneurship in the integration world. Why professional design documentation, outsourced engineering partnerships, and strong project planning…
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#359: Blake Urmos on Building AI Tools for the Low-Voltage Industry
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Blake and I discussed: How one simple ChatGPT project opened his eyes to the business potential of AI and led him to start building his own software tools. Why Claude Code, AI skills, agentic coding, and tools like MCP are helping non-traditional developers solve real...
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#358: From $4M to $20M- David Wexler on How EOC Audio Built a Powerhouse Culture
SHOW NOTES In this episode, David and I discussed: How EOC Audio grew 400% in six years by prioritizing "buying right," leveraging the power of buying groups, and hiring talent in advance of growth. Why long-term success comes from "saying yes" to clients and builders alike, and how David used 12...
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#357: The Missing Layer of the Smart Home: How to Position and Sell Smart Ceiling Fans
SHOW NOTES We cover: Why smart ceiling fans represent a growing opportunity for integrators — from comfort and energy savings to aesthetics and whole-home control integration The evolution of ceiling fan technology, including DC motors, airflow optimization, and smart controls How AI search and...
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#356: Revolutionizing MDU Solutions and Embracing the AI Frontier with Hally Patel of RDB Energy
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Hally and I discussed: The power of peer groups and why her V11 group in ProSource has become her most valuable business asset for vulnerability and growth. How she saved a client over $120,000 by re-engineering a high-voltage lighting hurdle into a low-voltage…
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#355: From Pro Golf to Pro Integration with Jeremey Jeansonne
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Jeremey and I discussed: His journey from the pro golf circuit to tech inventor, including the wild story of pitching a helmet-cam prototype to investors in a wedding buffet line. The strategic decision to "throttle" growth by raising prices, ensuring his team…
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#354: AI Is Deciding Who Gets Found Online. Will It Recommend You?
SHOW NOTES We cover: How AI search is changing the way prospects research integrators, compare companies, and decide who to contact Why foundational SEO strategies — like Google Business Profile optimization, on-site content, backlinks, reviews, and technical SEO — still matter in the age of AI…
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#353: Leading Through Innovation: AI, Video Walls, and Servant Leadership with Shawn Hansson
SHOW NOTES In this episode, Shawn and I discussed: How implementing a structured operating system and focusing on core values allowed Shawn to step back from the "trenches" and empower his team to lead. The specific strategies Logic uses to maintain a six-minute response time and build a "sticky"...
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#352: Lighting That Sells: How to Sell the Experience, Not Just the Fixture
SHOW NOTES We cover: The Four Experiences of Light — and how each plays a distinct role in how people live, relax, and interact with their spaces How to sell lighting without selling products, using real-world examples like restaurants, hotels, spas, and homes to help clients emotionally connect…
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#351: Stepping Out of Your Own Way- Corby Vickers on Scaling Through Service Plans and Smart Marketing
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…
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#350: The Big Screen Experience for Big Profits: Why Projectors Belong in Your Lineup
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…
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#349: Selling Emotion, Not Gear — Mastering the Luxury Experience with Doug Dushan
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,...
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AU Special Announcement
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,...
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#348: Scott Smith on Scaling Your Business through Lighting Partnerships
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,...
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#347: Owning Your Luxury Market — Strategies for Winning More High-Value Projects
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...
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#346: 35 Years of Aloha – The Pacific Audio & Communications Story
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...
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#345: Smarter, Not Harder: How Small Businesses Can Actually Use AI
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…
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#344: Reflecting Innovation – Tony Blodgett on Seura’s Mirror Technology Evolution
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...
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#343: Get Rich Slow — How Integrators Win Trade Partner Relationships and Bigger Projects
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…
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#342: Building Better AV Products — Joe Whitaker on Innovation, Education, and the Future of AV
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…
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#341: From First Touch to Final Sale: Marketing & Sales Collaboration
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…
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#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...
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#339: People, Culture, and Hiring- Building Teams that Last
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…
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#338: Carley Knobloch on Bridging Design and Technology in Luxury Homes
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…
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#337: 2025 Year in Review — Growth, Challenges, and the Role of AI at One Firefly
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...
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#336: Lessons in Expansion — Steve Weber on Acquisitions, Systems, and Leadership
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…
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#335: From CIA to CEO—Kris Coleman on Security, Strategy, and Service
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...
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#334: Building Partnerships That Shine — Kayla Steinberg of ADI | Snap One
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...
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#333: From Guessing to Investing- How AV Dealers Can Build a Winning Marketing Budget
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...
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#332: Ari Supran on Harnessing AI to Transform Business and Culture
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...
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AU #331: Navigating Uncertainty Part II: Expert Strategies to Stay Agile and Grow in a Shifting CI Industry
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...
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#330: From Hi-Fi to Sony- Kathleen Thomas on a Lifetime in the Audio Industry
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...
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#329: Measuring What Matters: How CRM Integration Improves Marketing ROI
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…
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Bonus Episode: The Power of the Tangible- Why LuxePost is Bringing Direct Mail Back to Luxury Marketing
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…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Since its launch on Facebook Live in 2017, Automation Unplugged has become the leading podcast for AV and custom integration professionals. Now pre-recorded and produced in both audio and video formats, episodes are released across our website, social media, and all major streaming platforms. Our content spans engaging interviews with industry leaders, in-depth discussions with One Firefly’s marketing experts, and insightful education on marketing & business growth strategies. From industry trends and business development to marketing, hiring, and beyond, Automation Unplugged delivers the knowledge and perspectives you need to stay ahead in the ever-evolving technology landscape.
HOSTED BY
Ron Callis
CATEGORIES
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How many episodes does Automation Unplugged Podcast have?
Automation Unplugged Podcast currently has 305 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Automation Unplugged Podcast about?
Since its launch on Facebook Live in 2017, Automation Unplugged has become the leading podcast for AV and custom integration professionals. Now pre-recorded and produced in both audio and video formats, episodes are released across our website, social media, and all major streaming platforms. Our...
How often does Automation Unplugged Podcast release new episodes?
Automation Unplugged Podcast publishes regularly with 305 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Automation Unplugged Podcast?
You can listen to Automation Unplugged Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Automation Unplugged Podcast?
Automation Unplugged Podcast is created and hosted by Ron Callis.
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