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Special thanks to John Ohlwiler - and visit sentrytechsolutions.com.

Keywords

AI, automation, mid-market businesses, technology consulting, healthcare technology, business processes, digital transformation, localized LLMs, RPA, technology maturity

Summary

In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, Brad and Robert from Digital Meld engage with John Ohlwiler from Sentry Technology Solutions to discuss the transformative potential of AI and automation for mid-market businesses. They explore the importance of structured processes, the challenges smaller companies face in adopting AI, and the need for practical, incremental solutions rather than grandiose projects. The conversation also touches on the role of leadership in technology implementation, the significance of understanding business goals, and the potential of localized AI models. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of collaboration and communication between executives and frontline employees to ensure successful technology adoption.

Takeaways

• Empowering mid-market businesses is crucial for AI adoption.
• SOPs and processes are foundational for successful technology integration.
• Smaller companies often struggle with visualizing AI implementation.
• Incremental changes yield better results than grandiose projects.
• Understanding the business context is essential for technology decisions.
• Localized AI models can revolutionize operations in mid-market companies.
• Leadership should not operate in silos when making technology decisions.
• AI is a tool, not a silver bullet for business problems.- Control over data leads to better AI outcomes.
• Continuous improvement is key to successful technology integration.

Titles

• Unlocking AI Potential for Mid-Market Businesses
• Navigating AI Adoption Challenges in Smaller Companies

Sound bites

• "SOPs and processes are king."
• "Find small wins to build momentum."
• "Don't make decisions in a silo."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Digital Meld and Century Technology Solutions

01:06 Understanding Technology Maturity Models

03:00 Client Base and Industry Insights

04:20 Navigating AI in Mid-Market Companies

07:10 The Importance of SOPs and Processes

08:42 Consultants and Change Management Challenges

10:49 The Role of AI in Healthcare

15:37 Practical AI Solutions for Small Medical Practices

18:37 Challenges in Medical AI Implementation

20:50 AI Use Cases in Telemetry and Automation

24:29 Localized LLMs and Edge Computing

29:16 Privacy and Data Management in AI

31:47 Navigating LLMs: Self-Hosting vs. Public Models

32:40 The Rise of Internal LLMs in Corporations

34:53 Leveraging Localized AI Models for Efficiency

37:36 Implementing Minimal Viable AI Solutions

40:13 The Importance of Incremental Changes in AI Projects

43:47 Empowering Teams: The Role of Leadership in AI Adoption

47:15 Finding the Right Balance: Vision vs. Execution

50:49 Aligning Technology with Business Goals

53:45 The Future of AI Tools in Business

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Special thanks to Craig Kaplan, Ph.D. - and visit superintelligence.com.

Summary

In this episode, Brad and Robert engage with Craig A. Kaplan, a seasoned expert in AI, discussing the evolution of artificial intelligence from its inception to its current state and future implications. They explore the importance of human oversight, the concept of AGI and superintelligence, and the role of collective intelligence in enhancing AI systems. The conversation emphasizes the need for ethical considerations in AI design and the practical steps businesses can take to implement AI solutions effectively. Craig shares insights on the open versus closed model debate and encourages individuals to contribute positively to the AI training process.

Keywords

AI, superintelligence, AGI, machine learning, ethics, safety, collective intelligence, business applications, open source, AI agents

Titles

• Navigating the AI Landscape: Past, Present, and Future
• The Evolution of AI: From Narrow to Superintelligence

Takeaways

• AI has evolved through distinct phases since its inception in 1956.
• The current AI landscape is marked by rapid advancements and potential lulls.
• Human oversight is crucial in the development of AI systems.
• AGI represents a significant leap towards machines that can perform any cognitive task.
• Collective intelligence can enhance the safety and effectiveness of AI systems.
• Ethical considerations must guide AI design to prevent harmful outcomes.
• Businesses should focus on integrating AI to improve efficiency and productivity.
• Open source models promote collaboration and innovation in AI development.
• Practical implementation of AI requires understanding specific business needs.
• Individuals can influence AI training by promoting positive online behavior

Sound bites

• "AI has evolved through distinct phases since its inception."
• "Human oversight is crucial in the development of AI systems."
• "AI is moving towards the role of an actor like a worker."

Chapters

00:00 – Welcome & Introductions

02:14 – The AI Trajectory: 3 Phases of Evolution

05:02 – AI Winters, Surges, and the Current Lull

10:38 – From Tools to Workers: The Age of Agents

14:57 – Designing for Safety in a Fast-Paced World

18:58 – Understanding AGI, Superintelligence & Agent Collectives

25:57 – Big vs. Small: Who Wins the Agent Adoption Race?

28:59 – Democracy as a Blueprint for AI Architecture

36:01 – Building Better Agents: Lessons from Startups and Team Training

38:22 – Power Users to Builders: What’s Next After ChatGPT

42:20 – Blueprinting Safer Systems with Superintelligence.com

50:23 – 2026 Priorities: Where Executives Should Focus Now

54:43 – The Future of Open Models

56:36 – Required Reading: Tree of Thoughts, Eric Schmidt & Stuart Russell

57:14 – Final Message: Be Your Best Self Online

58:59 – The End

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We 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.

Follow the SSTB Newsletter. Special thanks to Arnold Castro and the Aggie Innovators.

Summary

In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, Brad Groux discusses the Aggie Innovators event at Texas A&M, which aims to foster innovation and collaboration among students interested in AI and entrepreneurship. The event features student ambassadors who share their projects and experiences, emphasizing the importance of applying AI in various fields, networking with industry professionals, and gaining real-world experience. The conversation highlights the role of mentorship and collaboration in driving innovation and encourages students to take risks and pursue their passions in their entrepreneurial journeys. In this conversation, Brad Groux discusses the myths surrounding AI, its impact on jobs, and the importance of human oversight in AI applications. He emphasizes that AI is not a magic solution but a tool for enhancing productivity and decision-making. The discussion covers the components of AI, the rise of agentic AI, and its implications for various industries, including education and business. Brad also highlights the need for individuals to adapt to AI technologies and the geopolitical aspects of AI investment.

Keywords

AI, innovation, startups, Texas A&M, Aggie Innovators, entrepreneurship, business solutions, collaboration, technology, education, AI, automation, job transformation, generative AI, agentic AI, business efficiency, education, human oversight, job market, technology

Takeaways

• The Aggie Innovators event aims to foster innovation and collaboration among students.
• AI can be applied across various fields, not just technology.
• Real-world experience is crucial for students to succeed in their careers.
• Networking with industry professionals can lead to internship opportunities.
• The importance of mentorship in guiding students through their entrepreneurial journeys.
• Students are encouraged to take risks and pursue their passions in innovation.
• Collaboration among different disciplines can lead to innovative solutions.
• The role of AI in transforming business practices is significant.
• Students should focus on solving real-world problems through their projects.
• Feedback from students is essential for improving the Aggie Innovators program.
• AI is not a magic wand; it requires human oversight.
• Automation can free up time for more meaningful work.
• AI's real power lies in its ability to integrate data.
• Generative AI is transforming how we approach tasks.
• Agentic AI represents the future of automation.
• AI can enhance decision-making processes in businesses.
• The job market will evolve with AI, creating new opportunities.
• Education must adapt to incorporate AI technologies.
• AI's impact on jobs will require upskilling and adaptation.
• Geopolitical factors will influence AI development and investment.

Titles

• Empowering Innovation at Texas A&M The Future of AI in Business

Sound bites

• "AI isn't here to replace jobs."
• "AI will get everything right."
• "AI is going to impact jobs."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI Nexus and Ambassadors

04:07 The Role of AI in Business and Collaboration

07:07 Launching AI Solutions and Real-World Impact

07:49 Mentorship and Resources for AI Startups

11:30 Collaborative Innovation Programs

14:08 Incubating Entrepreneurial Ideas

17:15 Real-World Problem Solving with AI

19:53 Access to Cutting-Edge AI Resources

20:46 Understanding AI and Its Applications

25:06 The AI Revolution and Its Impact

27:58 The Future of AI and Human Collaboration

31:33 Exploring Agentic AI

35:00 The Role of AI in Education

38:39 AI's Impact on Job Markets

42:52 Navigating New Technologies

48:04 Business Insights and Automation

51:04 Leveraging AI for Business Efficiency

53:17 AI Applications in Industry

56:49 The End

https://linktr.ee/digitalmeld

We 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.

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Thank you to Lucas Blondheim.

Summary

In this conversation, Lucas Blondheim discusses the limitations of AI tools in generating user interfaces, emphasizing the need for a human touch in the design process. He highlights that while AI can get a project 80% complete, the final 20% requires human creativity and refinement to avoid producing subpar work, often referred to as 'AI slop.'

Keywords

AI tools, user interfaces, design, human touch, refinement, coding tools, creativity, AI slop

Takeaways

• AI tools and coding tools often produce similar user interfaces.
• The uniqueness in design comes from human creativity.
• AI can assist but cannot fully replace human input.
• The last 20% of a project is crucial for quality.
• Many users pass off incomplete work as finished.
• Refinement is essential to avoid 'AI slop.'
• Human touch adds value to AI-generated designs.
• Design should not rely solely on automated tools.
• Creativity is key in the final stages of design.
• AI tools should be seen as aids, not replacements.

Titles

• The Role of AI in Modern Design Human Touch vs. AI Tools in Creativity

Sound bites

• "AI tools are generating user interfaces."
• "You need that extra 20% to craft and refine it."
• "People are not addressing that last 20%."

Chapters

00:00 Intro and Meet Lucas

04:25 From Capitol Hill to Code

09:02 What is Results.io?

15:34 The Power of Execution Frameworks

19:10 Why Execution Beats Strategy (Most Days)

24:45 How LLMs and Agent Workflows Are Changing SaaS

30:12 Real-World Use Cases

37:00 The Challenges of Adoption and Change Management

41:28 AI for the Underdogs

45:45 Building a Company in the Age of AI

52:12 Final Thoughts and Where to Learn More

https://linktr.ee/digitalmeld

We 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.

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Special thanks to Scott Morris.

Summary

In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, Brad Groux and Scott Morris discuss the intersection of AI and human resources. Scott shares his extensive background in HR and how it led him to found Propulsion AI, a platform designed to democratize HR expertise through AI. They explore the importance of understanding the real problems faced by organizations, the shift from task-oriented to outcome-oriented management, and how AI can enhance HR processes. The conversation also touches on the ethical considerations in AI deployment and the need for human involvement in technology to ensure it amplifies the human experience rather than replaces it.

Keywords

AI, HR, automation, entrepreneurship, Propulsion AI, human resources, technology, startup, product market fit, ethical AI

Takeaways

• Scott has over 20 years of experience in HR, focusing on workforce engagement.
• AI can help managers shift from task orientation to outcome orientation.
• Democratizing HR expertise allows smaller companies to access top-tier talent.
• 46% of new hires fail within the first 18 months due to unclear expectations.
• AI tools can help uncover insights from large data sets.
• The human touch is essential in an increasingly automated world.
• Ethical considerations must be built into AI solutions from the start.
• AI should be seen as a tool to enhance human roles, not replace them.
• Continuous feedback from customers is crucial for product development.
• Founders should focus on understanding customer pain points rather than falling in love with their product.

Titles

• Harnessing AI for HR Transformation
• The Future of Work: AI and Human Resources

Sound Bites

• "Technology is the great equalizer."
• "The best process is no process."
• "AI should help us do the work better."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest

01:05 Scott's Background in HR and AI

06:52 The Role of AI in HR Management

10:20 Outcome-Driven Management vs. Task Orientation

16:05 How Propulsion AI Works

23:56 The Future of AI in Entrepreneurship

30:56 Transforming Job Descriptions with AI

32:51 The Importance of Feedback Loops

33:47 Amplifying Human Experience in an AI World

37:06 Building Ethical AI Solutions

40:58 The Role of Domain Experts in AI Deployment

44:58 Busting AI Myths and Best Practices

48:29 Founders' Mindset: Love the Problem, Not the Product

49:44 Utilizing AI Tools Effectively

52:25 Continuous Learning and Market Positioning

57:36 The End

https://linktr.ee/digitalmeld

We 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.

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Thank you to Hanah Darley, and check out geordie.ai.

Summary

In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, hosts Brad and Robert welcome Hannah Darley, Chief AI Officer at Geordie AI. The conversation explores Hannah's unique background in government intelligence, her transition to the tech industry, and the founding of Geordie AI. They discuss the challenges of AI adoption, the importance of understanding agentic AI, and the balance between innovation and risk management. Hannah shares insights on building a strong founding team, creating a positive company culture, and the significance of customer-centric product development. The episode concludes with rapid-fire questions and personal insights from Hannah about leadership and the journey of launching Geordie AI.

Keywords

AI, agentic AI, Geordie AI, innovation, cybersecurity, risk management, startup culture, product development, team building, leadership

Takeaways

• Hannah Darley has a unique background in government intelligence and data analytics.
• AI adoption requires trust and visibility to be successful.
• Understanding the specific problem to solve is crucial before deploying AI agents.
• Agentic AI represents a shift in how businesses operate, requiring new governance frameworks.
• Building a strong founding team is essential for startup success.
• Diversity of thought enhances problem-solving capabilities.
• The journey of launching a product involves continuous learning and adaptation.
• Establishing a positive company culture fosters collaboration and innovation.
• Customer-centric product development is key to addressing real business needs.
• Risk management is vital when implementing AI solutions.

Titles

• Navigating the Future of AI with Geordie
• The Journey of AI Innovation

Sound Bites

• "You can learn to be technical."
• "Eat the frog first."
• "Agents are the future of work."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests

01:44 Hannah Darley's Unique Background and Experience

04:08 Government Work and Its Challenges

08:53 The Vision Behind Geordie AI

11:32 Understanding Agentic AI

14:15 Balancing Risk with Agentic AI

17:18 Assembling the Geordie Team

27:22 Customer-Centric Approach to AI Solutions

30:04 Trends in Agentic AI Adoption

35:18 The Future of Decision-Making in AI

37:04 Building Partnerships with Clients

38:56 The Future of SaaS and AI Solutions

41:47 Understanding AI Adoption and Governance

45:43 The Role of Security in AI Implementation

49:31 Key Questions for AI Deployment

51:33 The Geordie Story: Illuminating Risks in AI

01:01:59 Reflections on Launching Geordie

01:05:38 The Future of AI Agents and Their Impact

01:07:36 The End

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We 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.

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Thanks to Jon Levesque, and check out Seeq.ing.

Summary

In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, Brad Groux and Robert Groux interview Jon Levesque, founder of Seeq. Jon shares his journey from being a community manager at Microsoft to becoming a startup founder. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building Seeq, a platform aimed at revolutionizing how people discover experiences. The conversation delves into the importance of community, leveraging AI in development, and the mindset needed for non-technical founders. Jon emphasizes the value of sharing ideas, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the belief that anyone can succeed with the right mindset and tools.

Keywords

startup, AI, automation, entrepreneurship, experience network, Seeq, community building, product development, non-technical founders, overcoming challenges

Takeaways

• Jon Levesque transitioned from Microsoft to founding Seeq.
• Seeq aims to redefine how people discover experiences.
• Community building has been a significant part of Jon's career.
• AI tools have accelerated development processes for startups.
• Non-technical founders can leverage no-code tools to build prototypes.
• Sharing ideas openly can lead to faster iterations and improvements.
• Imposter syndrome is common, but can be overcome with the right mindset.
• The startup journey is both rewarding and challenging.
• Networking and relationships are crucial for success in startups.
• Starting small and thinking big is essential for entrepreneurial success.

Titles

• Revolutionizing Experience Discovery with Seeq
• From Microsoft to Startup: Jon Levesque's Journey

Sound Bites

• "The only limitation is imagination."
• "I am the VC."
• "Start small, think big."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Journey

02:03 From Community Builder to Startup Founder

04:48 Reimagining Travel Discovery

09:54 The Leap into Entrepreneurship

17:47 Creating a New Category: Experience Networks

23:59 Building the Prototype and Team Dynamics

34:02 Leveraging AI for Development

46:51 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

53:04 Advice for Non-Technical Founders

59:28 Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations

01:03:51 The End

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We 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.

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Thank you to Nico Casavecchia, and check out NicoCasavecchia.com.

Summary

In this episode, Brad Groux and Nico Casavecchia discuss the evolving landscape of filmmaking in the context of AI and technology. Nico shares his unique journey from Argentina to Hollywood, highlighting the importance of curiosity and adaptability in a rapidly changing industry. They explore the historical parallels of disruption in cinema, the ethical implications of AI, and the need for artists to engage with new technologies while maintaining their personal narratives. The conversation emphasizes the importance of creativity, collaboration, and the human touch in an increasingly automated world.

Keywords

filmmaking, AI, creativity, technology, disruption, ethics, storytelling, industry trends, personal journey, artistic expression

Takeaways

• Nico's journey from Argentina to Hollywood showcases adaptability.
• Curiosity is essential for filmmakers in a changing landscape.
• AI is transforming the creative process and industry dynamics.
• Historical disruptions in cinema provide valuable lessons for today.
• The importance of ethical considerations in AI usage.
• Distribution challenges will be a key issue with AI-generated content.
• Artists must engage with technology to shape its future.
• Personal stories enhance the value of artistic work.
• Creativity and human touch remain irreplaceable in art.
• Survival and adaptation are crucial in the face of change.

Titles

• Navigating the Future of Filmmaking
• AI and the Evolution of Creativity

Sound Bites

• "Technology is a great equalizer."
• "The problem is distribution."
• "Lean into your personal story."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:15 Nico's Journey: From Argentina to Hollywood

02:47 The Intersection of Technology and Filmmaking

05:32 Navigating the Future of AI in Film

08:08 Historical Perspectives on Disruption in Cinema

10:59 The Impact of AI on the Film Industry

13:37 Challenges of Content Saturation and Distribution

16:21 The Role of AI in Advertising and Ethics

19:17 The Current State of AI in Filmmaking

25:18 Navigating the Evolving Landscape of AI in Creative Industries

27:23 The Intersection of Technology and Business Models

29:07 Understanding AI's Impact on Productivity and Creativity

31:51 The Disconnect Between Management and Creative Professionals

33:33 Ethical Considerations in AI and Creative Work

35:42 The Societal Implications of AI Disruption

38:00 The Importance of Personal Story in Art

45:15 Advice for Creatives in the Age of AI

51:42 The End

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We 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.

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Thank you to Pro-Forma, visit pro-forma.com.

Special thanks to Mason Rawls for assisting with the production of this episode.

Summary

The conversation revolves around the Texas AI Challenge, highlighting various startups and their innovative solutions in the AI space. Key themes include the importance of customer validation, the role of AI as a tool for entrepreneurs, and the significance of community and mentorship in the startup ecosystem. Founders share their journeys, challenges, and insights on leveraging technology to solve real-world problems, particularly in sectors like insurance, logistics, and women's health.

Keywords

Texas AI Challenge, startups, venture capital, AI technology, entrepreneurship, telematics, logistics, women's health, innovation, digital health

Takeaways

• Customer validation is crucial for startup success.
• AI should be viewed as a tool, not a solution.
• Networking and community support are vital for founders.
• Gamification can enhance user engagement in tech solutions.
• Don't wait for the perfect product; start with what you have.
• Pivoting based on feedback is essential for growth.
• Understanding your market and competition is key.
• Leverage AI for research and development.
• Storytelling is important for securing investment.
• Women founders should take the leap and validate their ideas.

Titles

• Empowering Startups at the Texas AI Challenge
• Innovative Solutions in AI: A Startup Showcase

Sound Bites

• "Customer validation is key."
• "Don't be afraid to pivot."
• "Take the leap of faith."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Texas AI Challenge

02:43 Jamey Smith: Driven Telematics

11:05 Marcus Cooksey: DUKE.AI

21:36 Wade Myers: Eagle Venture Fund

31:52 David Evans: Sentiero Ventures

44:42 Ryan Brown: 1845 Venture Studio

56:53 AJ Palermo: Primoria AI

01:04:37 Val Yaromenko: Big Sister AI

01:12:00 Adam Redmond: Tully

01:17:36 Lamanda Ballard: FloEver Health

01:24:18 The End

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We 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.

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Thanks to Leon Coe - and check out houstonaiclub.com and ampliflyintelligence.ai

Summary

In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, hosts Brad and Robert Groux engage with Leon Coe, founder of Houston AI and Amplify Intelligence. They discuss the rapid growth of the Houston AI community, the importance of AI in small businesses, and the cultural shifts necessary for successful AI adoption. Leon shares his journey in AI, insights on transforming workflows, and practical strategies for leveraging AI tools to enhance productivity. The conversation also touches on the future of AI in education and the need for continuous learning in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Keywords

AI, Houston AI, small business, AI adoption, AI community, AI tools, business transformation, AI education, productivity, technology

Takeaways

• The Houston AI community has grown significantly in just six months.
• AI should be viewed as an augmentation technology, not just automation.
• Small businesses need to focus on their financials to identify AI opportunities.
• Cultural shifts are essential for successful AI adoption in organizations.
• Recording meetings can drastically improve communication and efficiency.
• AI tools can help individuals become more productive and creative.
• Education systems need to adapt to incorporate AI learning.
• AI can facilitate better relationship management in businesses.
• The future of work will require continuous learning and adaptation to new technologies.
• AI can empower individuals to start their own businesses with fewer resources.

Titles

• Building AI Communities: The Houston AI Experience
• Transforming Business with AI: Insights from Leon Coe

Sound Bites

• "Start small, think big."
• "AI can teach you a lot."
• "Don't automate, obliterate."

Chapters

00:00 Building AI Communities: The Houston AI Club Journey

02:50 The Evolution of AI: From Voice to Conversational Intelligence

05:18 AI in Sales: Transforming Communication with GPT-3

08:00 Adopting AI in Small Businesses: A Cultural Shift

10:56 Empowering Founders: The Role of Leadership in AI Adoption

13:33 Enhancing Productivity: Speech-to-Text and Meeting Recordings

16:25 Cultural Resistance: Overcoming Fear of AI and Recording Meetings

19:30 The Future of Work: Embracing AI for Creativity and Innovation

29:07 Cultural Shifts in AI Adoption

33:24 Empowering Employees Through AI

38:33 Education and AI for Future Generations

40:52 Identifying Cost-Saving Opportunities with AI

45:35 Rapid Fire Insights on AI Tools and Trends

57:15 The End

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We 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.