Automation Unplugged Podcast

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 get the audio recording, full transcript, and video of the original webinar. Now let’s tune in and learn how to build trade partner relationships that lead to bigger projects and long-term growth.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

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 settle in and enjoy my conversation with Joe Whitaker. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au342

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 investment and sales success. Let’s get into it—here’s Automation Unplugged with Stephen Edwards.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

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 also leading several education sessions around marketing and AI. Check out the schedule on the Lightapalooza website to learn more and register.   With that, let’s dive into this special Lightapalooza-focused episode of Automation Unplugged with Tom Doherty. To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au340

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 conversation is for you. Let’s dive in — here’s Automation Unplugged with Andrew Pino.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

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 integration experience, this episode will inspire you to think differently. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Carley Knobloch. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au338

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 supported Automation Unplugged throughout the year. This podcast exists because of you, and we’re incredibly grateful to have you along for the journey. With that, let’s tune in to our final AU episode of 2025.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

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 conversation offers invaluable insights for integrators at every level. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Steve Weber. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au336

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 inspiration. Let’s dive in to my conversation with Kris Coleman! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au335

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 collaboration to everything she does. Whether you’re building your first showroom or refining your marketing approach, you’ll find a ton of inspiration and ideas in this conversation. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Kayla Steinberg. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au334

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 budget from a guess into a strategic investment. Let’s dive in—here’s Automation Unplugged with Kat Wheeler and Taylor Whipple.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

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 automations to streamline workflows. The importance of culture and leadership in shaping Sonance’s legacy and future growth. Ari’s journey blends deep industry expertise with a forward-looking embrace of AI, automation, and culture-first leadership. His perspective bridges innovation and leadership, delivering lessons that resonate across the custom integration industry. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Ari Supran. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au332

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 Jason Sayen, Founder of I Am Sayen Josh Christian, CEO of Home Technology Association And Rebecca Sternlicht, Corporate Marketing Lead at One Firefly, panel moderator Visit the episode page on our website to get the audio recording, show transcript, and full video. Now let’s dive back into the conversation and hear what our expert panel had to say in Part II of Navigating Uncertainty.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

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 cutting-edge RGB backlight technology And how she balances corporate leadership with her passion for creativity, community, and good food in Portland, Oregon Kathleen’s story is a powerful reminder that leadership is about listening, learning, and lifting others as you grow. Her energy, experience, and love for this channel shine through every part of our conversation. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Kathleen Thomas. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au330

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 ROI Whether you’re just starting to track your marketing or looking to sharpen the way you use your CRM, you’ll walk away with new ideas to apply in your own business. Let’s dive in—here’s Automation Unplugged with Cameron Howitt.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

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 wondered how to stand out with affluent clients or create marketing that truly feels luxurious, this conversation is for you. Let’s dive in!    About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Isar and I discussed: Why most leaders are still in the early stages of AI adoption Practical ways integrators and small-to-medium businesses can start using AI right now How AI will reshape customer service, design, and operations in the near future Isar brings clarity, energy, and actionable insights that cut through the hype and show what AI really means for business leaders today. Whether you’re just beginning to explore AI or already experimenting with new tools, this episode will help you think strategically about the future. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Isar Meitis. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au328

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Chris and I discussed: How culture, process, and profitability fuel growth at Acoustic Design Systems Why marketing and fun, engaging content have become cornerstones of the Acoustic Design Systems brand The future of integration, from lighting and panelized systems to service revenue and M&A Chris’s journey is a candid look at what it takes to scale an integration business while keeping people, culture, and community at the center. His story is both inspiring and packed with real-world takeaways for business owners and integrators alike. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Chris Sterle. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au327

SHOW NOTES In this episode, Chris and I discussed: The evolution of HiFi Buys from a neighborhood shop to a destination for music lovers across the Southeast Why cultivating entry-level customers is just as important as serving high-end audiophiles How YouTube, events, and a passion for education are expanding the store’s reach and building community Chris’s journey is a reminder that Hi-Fi is about more than gear — it’s about people, passion, and creating experiences that last. His insights are a must-hear for anyone curious about the state of high-performance audio today. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Chris Doughty. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au326   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.

SHOW NOTES In this episode, we talk about my journey building One Firefly over the past 18 years, lessons learned from both wins and setbacks, how to spot greatness in others, and why letting go is key to growing as a leader. We also touch on how remote work, innovation, and AI are transforming the way we serve our clients and our teams. So without further ado, here’s my conversation with Chris Oram on Elevation.   About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and solar energy markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Davie, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007.