Most Small Businesses Don’t Need AI - They Need Automation with Jeremy Yang

Most small businesses don’t need AI. They need better automation.

Everyone is talking about AI right now. But many businesses are chasing the buzzword instead of solving real problems. Jeremy argues that what most companies actually need is simple automation and better systems. Alyssa pushes the conversation further by asking what it really takes to use AI well. Together they explore what AI can do today, where it falls short, and how business leaders should think about it.

If you run a business, work in marketing, or care about customer relationships, this conversation will challenge how you think about AI. It’s a practical discussion about hype versus reality and what leaders should focus on instead. The bigger theme is rethinking how technology fits into the future of customer relationships.

Key Takeaways

1. Most businesses aren’t ready for AI yet Many companies say they want AI, but they don’t have the data, systems, or workflows needed to make it useful. What they really need first is automation.
2. AI is only as good as the foundation behind it Clean data, clear use cases, and human judgment matter more than the tool itself. Without the right inputs, AI will not produce meaningful results.
3. The real opportunity is using AI to support human expertise AI can handle repetitive tasks, research, and analysis. That frees people to focus on strategy, creativity, and deeper thinking about customers.

Jeremy Yang also shares his perspective from running an agency and working with small businesses that are trying to keep up with new technology. Alyssa Nolte brings her experience in customer research and go-to-market strategy to explore how AI could reshape the way businesses understand and serve their customers.

People and resources mentioned

• Cody Sanchez
• Gary Vaynerchuk

More from Alyssa Nolte

• alyssanolte.substack.com
• linkedin.com/in/alyssanolte