
Automation Unplugged Podcast
Ron Callis
Show overview
Automation Unplugged Podcast has been publishing since 2019, and across the 7 years since has built a catalogue of 289 episodes, alongside 1 trailer or bonus episode. That works out to roughly 260 hours of audio in total. Releases follow a weekly cadence.
Episodes typically run thirty-five to sixty minutes — most land between 46 min and 1h 4m — and the run-time is fairly consistent across the catalogue. It is catalogued as a EN-language Technology show.
The show is actively publishing — the most recent episode landed 5 days ago, with 23 episodes already out so far this year. The busiest year was 2020, with 67 episodes published. Published by Ron Callis.
From the publisher
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.
Latest Episodes
View all 289 episodes#359: Blake Urmos on Building AI Tools for the Low-Voltage Industry
#358: From $4M to $20M- David Wexler on How EOC Audio Built a Powerhouse Culture
#357: The Missing Layer of the Smart Home: How to Position and Sell Smart Ceiling Fans
#356: Revolutionizing MDU Solutions and Embracing the AI Frontier with Hally Patel of RDB Energy
#355: From Pro Golf to Pro Integration with Jeremey Jeansonne
#354: AI Is Deciding Who Gets Found Online. Will It Recommend You?
#353: Leading Through Innovation: AI, Video Walls, and Servant Leadership with Shawn Hansson
#352: Lighting That Sells: How to Sell the Experience, Not Just the Fixture
#351: Stepping Out of Your Own Way- Corby Vickers on Scaling Through Service Plans and Smart Marketing

Ep 350#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 Sony’s “Lens to Living Room” storytelling to elevate your sales conversations How to actually market big-screen solutions using the buyer journey, smarter segmentation of your customer list, and the right channel mix to drive hand-raises 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 deliver the big screen experience, and grow profits while you do it. To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit the podcast page on our website at onefirefly.com.

Ep 349#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, personalized "owner experience" that luxury clients expect. Why he uses his viral social media presence as a form of "social proof" to build credibility and reach the next generation of technology consumers. Doug brings a wealth of experience in high-end integration and a unique perspective on the intersection of culture and technology. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Doug Dushan. Let's get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit the podcast page on our website at onefirefly.com.
AU Special Announcement
bonusSHOW 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: onefirefly.com/auspecial

Ep 348#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, high-growth vertical for integrators The realities of project management in the lighting space and why on-site collaboration is the secret to moving from "lucky" to consistently "perfect" results Scott brings a wealth of wisdom, a refreshingly candid perspective on business, and a deep passion for helping integrators build better partnerships. Whether you’re just starting your lighting journey or looking to refine your design process, you'll find a ton of insight in this conversation. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Scott Smith. Let's get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au348

Ep 347#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 AI search, and social — and why unique, high-quality content and imagery matter more than ever Event and gifting strategies as powerful tools for deepening relationships with architects, builders, designers, and ultra-high-net-worth clients 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 explore how you can truly own your luxury market. About One Firefly One Firefly, LLC is an award-winning marketing agency that caters to technology professionals in the custom integration, security and home services markets. One Firefly is headquartered in Coral Springs, Florida with staff located throughout North America and has been operating since 2007. To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au347

Ep 346#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 mentoring future leaders and transitioning ownership to their team Phil and Pat’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and integrity — a true testament to what’s possible when family, passion, and purpose align. So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Phil and Pat Mulligan of PAC Hawaii. Let’s get started! To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au346

Ep 345#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 Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or looking for smarter ways to integrate it into your day-to-day, you’ll walk away with tangible takeaways to make your work more efficient and effective. Let's dive in. Here’s Automation Unplugged with Adam Lewis. To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au345

Ep 344#344: Reflecting Innovation – Tony Blodgett on Seura’s Mirror Technology Evolution
SHOW NOTESIn 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 integrators how to stand out in a competitive market. Whether you’re in custom integration, design, or simply curious about where technology meets elegance, this episode is for you.So settle in and enjoy my conversation with Tony Blodgett of Seura. Let’s get started!To get transcripts, resources of what was mentioned in the show, and more visit: onefirefly.com/au344

Ep 343#343: Get Rich Slow — How Integrators Win Trade Partner Relationships and Bigger Projects
SHOW NOTESWe cover:Why “design consultant” beats “contractor” — and how charging for consultation and design services can instantly elevate your role with trade partnersHow to use consistency, credibility, and branding to build trade relationships that actually pay offYou’ll also hear tactical ideas you can put to work right away, like CEUs, lunch-and-learns, and strategic giftingVisit 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 FireflyOne 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.

Ep 342#342: Building Better AV Products — Joe Whitaker on Innovation, Education, and the Future of AV
SHOW NOTESIn this episode, Joe and I discussed:His transition from integrator to manufacturer — and what he’s learned on both sides of the industryThe importance of innovation, education, and fair collaboration in product developmentAnd how technology and design are converging to shape the next evolution of the smart homeJoe 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

Ep 341#341: From First Touch to Final Sale: Marketing & Sales Collaboration
SHOW NOTESThis episode is hosted by Kat Wheeler, and together she and Stephen dive into:Real-world scenarios where sales and marketing either collaborate or clashHow shared goals and open communication help both teams winPractical steps integrators can take this quarter to strengthen alignmentIt’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 FireflyOne 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.