Start Small, Think Big - A podcast and newsletter that guides you on your AI and Automation journey.

Your First AI Hire: Automation for Construction & Skilled Trades, with Grant Fuellenbach | Episode #0021

Follow the SSTB Newsletter.Thanks to Grant Fuellenbach - and check out beyondthebid.coSummaryIn this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, host Brad Groux and Grant Fuellenbach discuss the intersection of AI, automation, and the construction industry. They explore the challenges faced by skilled trades in adopting new technologies, the importance of data management, and the potential of AI to streamline operations and enhance customer communication. The conversation highlights the dichotomy between traditional practices and modern technological advancements in the AEC space, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift towards embracing innovation. Grant shares insights on practical applications of AI and automation, offering actionable advice for small businesses looking to improve efficiency and competitiveness.KeywordsAI, automation, construction, skilled trades, data centers, technology adoption, project management, operational efficiency, customer communication, content marketingTakeawaysAI can help overcome challenges in construction.Data management is crucial for operational efficiency.Many builders are underutilizing available technology.Start small with automation to see quick wins.Documentation of processes is essential for improvement.Customer communication can be enhanced with automation.AI tools can streamline project management tasks.Learning from failures is key to success.Simplifying processes can aid in scaling a business.AI is a tool, not a magic solution.TitlesHarnessing AI in ConstructionNavigating Technology in Skilled TradesSound bites"Your data is your differentiator.""Start small, think big.""Just in time learning is the future."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 02:58 The Dichotomy of Technology in AEC 05:39 AI and Automation in Construction 07:54 The Impact of AI on Data Centers 10:32 Adoption of New Technologies in Skilled Trades 13:18 Operational Chaos in Skilled Trades 16:10 Streamlining Processes with AI 18:49 The Importance of Documentation 21:31 Enhancing Customer Communication 24:16 Tools for Project Management 27:16 Using AI for Research and Analysis 29:58 Content Creation and Marketing Strategies 32:48 Final Thoughts on AI in AEC 01:02:08 The Endhttps://linktr.ee/digitalmeldWe build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.

AI Edge Advantage: How Smart SMBs Are Turning Speed, and Strategy into Competitive Gold, with Lucas Erb | Episode #0020

Follow the SSTB Newsletter.Special thanks to Lucas Erb, and check out AIExperts.com - SummaryIn this episode, Brad Groux, Robert Groux, and Lucas Erb discuss the intersection of AI and business, emphasizing the importance of human oversight in AI adoption. They reflect on a recent incident involving Replit, highlighting the risks of unchecked AI. The conversation shifts to the necessity of disaster recovery plans for small businesses and the potential of AI tools to enhance operations. They introduce Digital Meld's new product, Rubicon, designed to improve safety in various industries. The discussion concludes with insights on how AI can transform technology from a cost center to a revenue generator, emphasizing the need for industry-specific knowledge in training AI models. In this conversation, Lucas Erb shares insights on the democratization of AI technology and its potential for small to medium-sized businesses. He discusses the importance of understanding the pain points at the enterprise level and how these can be addressed in smaller organizations. The conversation also covers the pitfalls of AI adoption, real-world use cases, and the process of implementing AI solutions effectively. The discussion concludes with rapid-fire insights on current AI trends and tools.KeywordsAI, Digital Meld, Rubicon, safety, disaster recovery, human oversight, business growth, automation, technology, small business, AI, small business, consulting, technology adoption, automation, efficiency, pitfalls, implementation, use cases, trendsTakeawaysAI adoption requires human oversight to prevent disasters.Replit's incident highlights the risks of unchecked AI.Small businesses often neglect disaster recovery plans.Digital Meld's Rubicon aims to improve safety in industries.Data is a competitive advantage for businesses.Proactive safety measures can prevent workplace accidents.AI can transform technology from a cost center to a revenue generator. The goal is to enhance human efficiency with AI.Small businesses can leverage AI to compete with larger firms.AI adoption requires a careful understanding of business needs.Experimentation is key to discovering AI's potential.Standard operating procedures can be automated with AI.AI can teach users how to use itself effectively.TitlesNavigating AI: Insights from Digital MeldThe Human Element in AI AdoptionSound Bites"AI can automate safety protocols.""Data is a competitive advantage.""Start small, think big."Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI and Business Solutions01:48 The Importance of Human Oversight in AI05:26 Security Risks and Business Continuity11:26 The Role of AI in Business Automation16:38 Introducing Digital Meld's New Product22:40 Industry Expertise and AI Solutions32:24 Maximizing Productivity with AI Tools33:42 Building Internal Solutions vs. Buying SaaS34:45 Reevaluating Software Subscriptions35:44 The Future of SaaS in the Age of AI37:12 Innovations in Safety Technology43:02 The Role of AI in Enhancing Safety Protocols47:46 Transforming Technology from Cost Center to Revenue Stream48:59 Democratization of AI for Small Businesses54:01 Identifying Pitfalls for Small to Medium Businesses01:00:12 The Future of Lean Businesses in the AI Era01:03:12 Navigating AI Safely and Effectively01:05:30 Understanding the Adoption Process01:07:59 Experiment, Explain, Evaluate: A Framework for AI01:10:11 The Importance of Strategic Thinking in AI Implementation01:13:02 Building Lasting Relationships in AI Consulting01:15:03 Rapid Fire Insights and Tools in AI01:18:43 Overhyped Trends in AI: A Critical Look01:21:34 AI in Creative Fields: The New Frontier01:23:53 Addressing Skepticism Towards AIhttps://linktr.ee/digitalmeldWe build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.

Imperfect Innovation: Why Courage Beats Perfection in AI Leadership - with Giorgio Natili | Episode #0019

Follow the SSTB Newsletter.Thank you to Giorgio Natili.SummaryIn this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, Brad Groux and Giorgio Natili discuss the evolving landscape of AI, focusing on themes such as data sovereignty, the importance of learning from failures, and the balance between innovation and regulation. They emphasize the need for education in AI, the role of leaders in fostering inclusive tech teams, and the significance of community engagement. Giorgio shares personal anecdotes about overcoming fears and the importance of being kind, useful, and fearless in both personal and professional life. The conversation concludes with insights on the importance of feedback and the role of evangelism in shaping a responsible culture around AI.KeywordsAI, data sovereignty, ethical AI, leadership, education, innovation, technology, regulation, community engagement, imperfectionTakeawaysFailures are not ugly; they are learning opportunities.AI is a tool, and humans are the experts.Education is crucial for understanding AI.Leaders should create safe spaces for feedback.Innovation requires a balance between speed and caution.Community engagement is vital for AI evangelism.Embrace imperfection in leadership.Identify small needs to automate with AI.Be kind, useful, and fearless in your actions.AI enhances human capabilities, not replaces them.TitlesNavigating the AI Landscape: Insights from Giorgio NatiliEmbracing Imperfection in Leadership and TechnologySound bites"AI will enhance human beings.""Be kind, be useful, be fearless.""Be the change you want to see."Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI and Data Sovereignty 02:32 The Importance of Learning from Failure 05:15 AI in Government and Business 08:05 Balancing Regulation and Innovation 10:45 The Global Race for AI Leadership 13:18 Education and AI: Preparing Future Generations 16:15 From Fear to Fearless: Giorgio's Journey 18:48 Leveraging AI for Personal Growth 21:35 Community Engagement and Knowledge Sharing 31:53 The Democratization of AI Knowledge 32:43 AI as an Enhancer, Not a Replacement 36:12 Empowering Employees Through AI 40:01 Embracing Imperfection in Leadership 47:12 The Importance of Feedback and Safe Spaces 53:01 Evangelism and AI Culture 58:43 Closing Thoughts: Kindness and Fearlessness 01:02:03 Wrapping Uphttps://linktr.ee/digitalmeldWe build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.

Built to Scale: How Small Businesses Can Use AI to Compete Like Giants, with Anthony Amunategui | Episode #0018

Follow the SSTB Newsletter.Thank you to ⁠Anthony Amunategui, and check out futurefactorypodcast.com, and cdogroup.com.SummaryIn this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, hosts Brad and Robert engage with Anthony Amunategui, founder of CDO Group and Future Factory podcast, discussing the transformative impact of AI and automation on small businesses, particularly in the construction industry. They explore the entrepreneurial journey, the importance of hard work, and the agility of small businesses in leveraging technology. Anthony shares real-world applications of AI, emphasizing the need for digital transformation and the role of data in modern business practices. The conversation concludes with advice for business leaders on embracing change and starting boldly in their ventures.KeywordsAI, automation, small business, entrepreneurship, construction, digital transformation, innovation, technology, business growth, leadershipTakeawaysAI tools are making it easier for small businesses to compete.The entrepreneurial journey involves hard work and resilience.Small businesses are more agile than larger corporations.Perfection can hinder progress in adopting new technologies. Starting with small, manageable AI projects can lead to significant improvements.Continuous movement and progress are essential for success.Data-driven decision-making is crucial in modern business.Embracing change is necessary for survival in the evolving market.The construction industry can greatly benefit from AI and automation.Business leaders should empower their teams to experiment with new technologies.TitlesStart Small, Think BoldlyThe Power of AI in Small BusinessSound bites"AI is your business partner" "Get out there and start to use it" "Start Small, Think Boldly"Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests 02:53 The Entrepreneurial Journey and Hard Work 05:40 Agility of Small Businesses in the Modern Market 08:32 Leveraging AI and Automation for Business Growth 11:42 Overcoming Fear and Taking Action 14:15 The Importance of Movement and Progress 17:13 Real-World Applications of AI in Construction 20:04 Revolutionizing Payment Processes in Construction 22:51 Embracing Change in the Subcontracting Industry 27:15 Embracing Change in the Age of AI 29:35 The Future of Real Estate and Construction 35:26 Digitizing Workflows for Efficiency 41:26 Starting Small with AI Implementation 46:44 Empowering the Next Generation in Business 51:12 The Bold Path Forwardhttps://linktr.ee/digitalmeldWe build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.

Don’t Start with ChatGPT: Sara Nay on Smarter AI for Small Business Marketing | Episode #0017

Follow the SSTB Newsletter.Thank you to ⁠Sara Nay, and check out ⁠ducttapemarketing.com.SummaryIn this episode, Brad Groux and Sara Nay discuss the transformative impact of AI on marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of a solid foundation in strategy before diving into tactics. They explore the evolving landscape of SEO, the significance of personalization and automation, and the need for businesses to adapt to new marketing models. Sara shares insights on how small businesses can leverage AI tools to enhance their marketing efforts, streamline operations, and improve customer engagement. The conversation highlights the necessity of upskilling teams and fostering a culture of curiosity and learning in the face of rapid technological advancements.KeywordsAI, marketing, personalization, strategy, automation, SEO, content production, small business, marketing agency, upskillingTakeawaysAI can help small businesses punch above their weight class.Strategy should precede tactics in marketing.SEO is evolving with the rise of AI tools.Personalization at scale is now more accessible to small businesses.The agency model is shifting towards in-house marketing execution.Training AI effectively is crucial for successful marketing outcomes.Content production is a key area for quick wins with AI.Understanding customer journeys is essential for effective marketing.AI can connect marketing and sales departments more effectively.Curiosity and a willingness to learn are vital in the AI era.TitlesHarnessing AI for Small Business Marketing SuccessThe Future of Marketing: AI and StrategySound Bites"You can get quick wins with automation.""Learn AI to stay relevant in marketing.""Be curious and willing to learn."Chapters00:00 Introduction to AI in Marketing01:22 The Evolution of Duct Tape Marketing02:49 The Changing Landscape of SEO and AI08:08 Hyper-Personalization and Automation in Marketing11:29 Strategy Before Tactics: The Foundation of Marketing18:03 Breaking the Agency Model: In-House Marketing Revolution20:39 Upskilling Teams with AI: The Future of Work31:31 Expanding Web Presence with AI Tools33:33 Training Strategic Partners in AI35:00 Overcoming AI Overwhelm for Small Businesses36:02 Shifting Mindsets: From Execution to Strategy38:40 Quick Wins in Marketing with AI39:00 Building Foundations for AI Success42:49 The Role of Fractional CMOs in Small Businesses45:16 Measuring Marketing Success and ROI46:36 Navigating AI Hype and Trends48:37 Future of Marketing: Strategic Leadership50:50 Staying Relevant in the AI Era57:46 The Endhttps://linktr.ee/digitalmeldWe build tools that save businesses time and money by helping them unlock their greatest potential and achieve growth through data, automation, and AI-powered solutions.