In this high-energy episode of Building HVAC Science, Bill Spohn and Eric Kaiser welcome Tersh Blissett—entrepreneur, podcaster, and automation enthusiast—for a deep dive into how AI and automation are transforming service businesses. Tersh, known for running multiple HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies, shares his journey from podcasting beginnings to becoming a Zapier expert and automation evangelist. He explains how AI voice tools, custom GPTs, and platforms like Notebook LM and PhoneTap are helping streamline operations, improve call conversions, and create more consistent customer experiences.

The conversation explores both the promise and the pitfalls of AI, from building SOPs and staff training bots to setting up Slack-integrated employee handbooks. Tersh doesn’t shy away from the challenges—like automating broken processes or managing security risks—but encourages listeners not to ignore these powerful tools. He wraps up by offering guidance and community resources for those looking to start their AI journey, reinforcing the message: don't automate for automation’s sake—do it to solve real problems.

Quotes from today’s episode:

“If you do something more than three times a week, optimize it, automate it, or delegate it.”

“Don’t automate just to automate—solve a problem first.”

“Authentic human tone is going to win, even if AI is writing it.”

 

Tersh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/

Trade Automation Pros: https://tradeautomationpros.com/

Tersh’s email: [email protected]/

Tersh’s Podcast: https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

Other links mentioned in today’s episode:

https://scribehow.com/ Capture computer based learning/processes

Skool.com (look for the Automation Foundation)

www.plaud.ai/products/plaud-notepin  (always recording pendant)

https://notebooklm.google/ Understand anything

https://chat.chatbotapp.ai/claude Claude by Anthropic

This episode was recorded in June 2025.