In this episode, I share a hard-earned lesson from years in data analysis, business systems, and AI workflows: If you automate a mess, you just make a mess faster.
We dive deep into why clean, simple workflows should always come before automation or AI integration. From real-world examples like PDF data extraction, CRM integrations, and dashboard pitfalls, Nate explains how the illusion of efficiency can derail businesses and lead to bad decisions.
Learn why simplifying your systems first — not jumping straight to automation — is the real cheat code for sustainable growth.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why working from spreadsheets > PDFs when building AI workflows

• The dangers of automating broken processes

• Black box models vs explainable models

• Clean automation principles (hint: simple wins)

• How bad data kills AI insights

• How to design scalable business systems BEFORE adding AI

• Real-world examples from product development and CRM integrations

• Why simplicity actually scales

Takeaway:
Automation and AI are incredible tools — but they can’t fix broken systems. Start by simplifying your workflows, cleaning your data, and thinking critically before layering on automation.

If you're into automation, AI tools, or building content with smart workflows, this one’s for you.

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Have a question about anything you heard here - reach out to [email protected]

In this episode of the dataSmarts Podcast, we dive into a real-time experiment comparing two powerful automation platforms—Make.com and Zapier—using two different AI tools: ChatGPT-4.0 and the lesser-known but highly capable Manus AI.

Watch as I:

1. Use the same vague prompt in both AI tools
2. Compare their writing styles, speed, and technical depth
3. Show how ChatGPT is fast and iterative, while Manus delivers deep research and structured output
4. Analyze the final blog posts generated by both tools
5. Share how I plan to use these outputs to publish real content on the DataSmarts website.

If you're into automation, AI tools, or building content with smart workflows, this one’s for you.

🔗 Get the exact prompt and model results here

🔗 Watch the full video on YouTube with screen share.

Enjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay smart.

Have a question about anything you heard here - reach out to [email protected]

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Lindy.ai isn’t just another AI assistant — it’s aiming to be your chief of staff. In this episode, we dive into what makes Lindy different from other chat agents and automation tools, how it's redefining delegation, and why it might just change how modern operators run their business. From workflows to contextual memory, we break down the tech, the use cases, and what this means for the future of work.

Whether you're an early adopter or just AI-curious, this one’s for you.

Listen to this episode to hear my top 3 tips for improving the effectiveness of your pitch meetings. I spent the better part of 6 years leading demos and pitch meetings and made a lot of mistakes along the way. However, after many years of trial and error here are my top 3 tips to help you make your next meeting better.

I would love to hear your feedback and for you share any tips that you have developed throughout your career. 

Visit the website at www.datasmarts.co 

#saas #productdevelopment #productsales #sales

In this episode I explore the Internet.org project that was put together by Facebook in partnership with large corporations like Nokia and Opera in hopes of connecting the world. Now, being the product developer that I am, I immediate think of the benefit of creating a new market for you to exploit through your product and skip right past the altruism. 

How did that Internet.org project go and what were some of the unintended consequences of it. Listen in to find out more.

There is no handbook on how to approach a new position or a new organization. You want to simultaneously prove your value but also not blow everything up. So how do you strike that balance. In this episode I talk about the last 3 months of work for me as I have transitioned into a new IT leadership role at a non-profit organization. This was a pretty big change for me going from a small software start-up company to a large non-profit. It has been an eye opening and challenging experience.

In this episode I talk about 4 key areas of focus that have helped me stay the course and be intentional about my first 3 months. Maybe some of these resonate with you and will help you in your career right now or when it comes time for your transition.  

This audio was pulled from a recent video; apologies for the lack of quality. This first episode is being published for the sole purpose of confirming distribution channels and access. Hope you enjoy the message but more episodes will follow soon.