AI Automation Alchemist

Rey Ortega
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Practical AI for small business entrepreneurs! AI shouldn’t be overwhelming or overhyped. AI Automation Alchemist breaks the noise into actionable playbooks for small business owners and scrappy founders. We cover the headlines that matter, de-risk adoption (security, compliance, costs), and walk through real workflows for leads, service, and back-office. Informational, honest, and inspiring, so you can do less manual work and drive more growth.

Episodes

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Bonus Episode: How Large Language Models Actually Work (A Simple Story)

    Most people don’t understand how AI actually works — and that’s okay. In this episode, I explain Large Language Models using a simple story anyone can understand. Neural networks, transformers, hallucinations, and RAG are usually explained with math, code, and diagrams that look like spider webs. So I did something different. In this bonus episode of the AI Automation Alchemist podcast, I use a simple story — a flat tire and a cocktail party — to explain: How Large Language Models actually workWhat input layers and hidden nodes really doWhy AI hallucinatesHow transformers keep context intactHow Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) injects factsWhy AI feels intelligent without “thinking” No code. No math. No hype. If you’ve ever nodded along pretending to understand neural networks — this episode is for you. Sponsored by: Grata Software — custom AI & automationDigital Strike Hub — learn AI the right way #ChatGPT #LLM #ArtificialIntelligence #AIExplained #Automation

    23 min

  2. 4 FEB

    The Tech Behind AI Chat Tools (LLMs)

    ChatGPT isn’t thinking — it’s calculating probabilities.In this episode, I explain how Large Language Models actually work, in plain English. Most people use ChatGPT daily without understanding what it’s actually doing. In this episode of the AI Automation Alchemist podcast, I break down: What Large Language Models (LLMs) areHow neural networks work (simplified)What transformers actually doWhy context matters more than promptsWhy AI feels intelligent without “thinking” This is not hype, not marketing, and not theory — it’s a practical explanation for business owners and builders who want to use AI correctly. 00:00 What this episode covers00:45 Why I used Notebook LM02:10 What a Large Language Model is03:15 Neural networks (simplified)04:40 Hidden nodes & parallel processing06:00 Transformers & context07:40 Why words mean different things09:00 Why AI feels intelligent10:15 The simplified explanation epiphany Resources & Links: Notebook LMGrata SoftwareDigital Strike Connect with Rey Ortega: LinkedInX/Twitter#ChatGPT #LLM #ArtificialIntelligence #AIExplained #Automation

    12 min

  3. 27 JAN

    Stop the AI Hype! Here’s the Tactical Plan

    Next week we go tactical: AI tools that help you find customers, target them, message them, and convert them. This week we talked about AI hype, conferences, and the wild claims people make about “AI expertise.”Now we’re moving forward. Next week’s episodes focus on tactical AI tools for business owners, especially: How to identify the right customers (demographics + psychographics)How to craft an offer that speaks to themHow to message them on social and emailWhat tools to use (and which are a waste)How to control tool costs and ensure 10x ROISponsored by: Grata Software — custom AI + automation for small businessesDigital Strike — DIY training community for AI + automation Drop a comment with the #1 thing you want AI to help you with: Lead gen, sales, content, ops, or customer support. 00:00 This week recap: AI hype + misinformation01:10 Disclaimer: marketers still help beginners02:20 Sponsors: Grata Software + Digital Strike03:00 Next week: tactical AI tools for business growth04:10 Customer acquisition: who to target + why05:10 Tool cost problem + how to think ROI06:10 The 30-day podcast challenge + why I’m doing this07:10 What topics do you want next? #AI #Automation #SmallBusiness #Marketing #CustomerAcquisition

    8 min

  4. 26 JAN

    Marketers Are Lying About AI (Here’s Why)

    Using AI tools doesn’t make you an AI expert — and pretending it does is hurting businesses. In this episode, I explain the difference between tool users and real AI expertise. I’m recording this episode from an indie game jam where I’m mentoring engineers, and it perfectly highlights a growing problem in the AI industry. Too many people — especially marketers — are calling themselves “AI experts” after learning a handful of tools or getting certified. Using tools does not equal expertise. In this episode, I break down: Why AI tools don’t give you “god-like skills”The difference between tool users and expertsWhy AI certifications don’t impress real companiesWhy Siemens, GE, and enterprise clients only care about experienceWho AI tools are actually for (and why that’s still valuable)How bad AI advice is costing companies millionsIf you want to learn AI properly, check out Digital Strike.If you want AI done for you, contact Grata Software.

    10 min

  5. 25 JAN

    The Truth About AI Modes

    The conversation delves into the misconceptions surrounding AI and automation, particularly focusing on the Chat GPT technology. It addresses the false notion of 'genius mode' and the reality of how the technology functions. Additionally, it explores the Chat GPT ecosystem and its various components. Takeaways AI and Automation MisconceptionsUnderstanding Chat GPT Ecosystem Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI and Automation Misconceptions

    24 min

  6. 22 JAN

    The 70/20/10 Rule for AI (Why Most AI Projects Fail)

    Most AI implementations fail because people start with tools (the 10%) instead of culture (70%) and process (20%). In this episode, I break down the 70/20/10 rule for AI and how to use it to actually implement automation. In this episode you’ll learn: What the 70/20/10 rule is (and where it came from)Why “AI consultants” often teach tools with no purposeThe #1 problem: you can’t automate what doesn’t existHow to implement AI the right way: 70% = culture + buy-in + skills20% = SOPs + workflows + integration10% = models, tools, algorithms, automation build If you want our AI + Automation implementation guide, comment: NEED A PLAN. Sponsored by: Grata Software (custom AI + automation)Digital Strike Hub (training + community) #AI #Automation #BusinessSystems #SOP #AIImplementation Chapters00:00 The 70/20/10 rule for AI00:30 What the framework is (70 core / 20 related / 10 new)01:26 Why most AI consultants miss it02:50 Client story: “Where’s your list?”04:19 You can’t automate what isn’t there05:40 Secret #1: 70% is buy-in + culture07:07 Secret #2: 20% is SOPs + integration09:27 Secret #3: 10% is the tech11:47 Recap + how to apply it12:46 Comment “NEED A PLAN”

    13 min

  7. 21 JAN

    The 10,000-Hour Rule vs “AI Experts”

    Someone told a room full of people: ‘I know AI like nobody else… I started in 2022.’ That’s when I knew we had a problem. AI was everywhere at the conferences I attended — especially PodFest — and a lot of it was oversold.In this episode, I explain why “using AI tools” ≠ being an “AI expert,” and I highlight **3 presenters who did it the right way. You’ll learn: Why “AI expert since 2022” is a red flag (and what real expertise looks like)The 10,000-hour rule as a reality check for skill claims3 great presentations and what made them credible:Dr. Catrice Austin (Celebrity Branding USA) — PR + AI used responsiblyJennifer Navarrete — podcasting experience + practical AI useChad Parazan (Ader Communications) — prompts + workflows for podcast automationHow to use AI for podcast prep, editing, trailers, and clips the smart way 👋 I’m Rey Ortega, a 26-year software engineer & automation builder (250+ business applications). Sponsored by: Grata Software + Digital Strike ✅ Links mentioned in this episode (add yours here): Grata SoftwareDigital Strike HubCelebrity Branding USABrew Media / Jennifer NavarreteAder Communications / podfest prompts #ai #automation #podcasting #chatgpt #businessautomation Chapters00:00 AI wasn’t supposed to be the topic… but it was01:05 The conference “AI hook” problem06:55 “AI expert since 2022” (the credibility issue)07:35 The 10,000-hour rule reality check10:45 AI isn’t new (since the 60s) + what “real AI” is13:30 Presenter #1: Dr. Catrice Austin (PR + AI done right)16:55 Presenter #2: Jennifer Navarrete (podcasting truth + volume)27:50 Presenter #3: Chad Parazan (prompts + full podcast automation)33:25 Wrap-up: the standard going forward

    24 min

  8. 18 JAN · BONUS

    Build An App In 15 Minutes or Less! Or Not!

    If someone could teach you how to build your own apps that make you millions of dollars in 15 minutes or less, would you run to that opportunity?While attending Podfest 2026, one of the presentations touted this capability.So, being a software engineer for over two decades and building over 250 applications in my career, I went into that presenetation to get the facts.My post-presentation response will shock you!

    3 min

  9. 17 JAN

    The Context Problem Most Businesses Get Wrong with AI

    Summary In this introductory episode of the AI Automation Alchemist podcast, host Rey Ortega discusses the significance of artificial intelligence and automation in business. He clarifies the distinction between AI and automation, addresses common misconceptions, and emphasizes the importance of context in AI applications. The episode also explores practical applications of AI in business workflows, customization options, and how to measure the success of AI tools. Rey encourages listeners to engage with the podcast and share their questions for future episodes. Takeaways AI and automation are distinct but complementary technologies.Understanding context is crucial for effective AI implementation.No business is too niche for AI; niche businesses can benefit more.AI can automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for business owners.Learning the technical aspects of AI can empower business owners.Key performance indicators are essential for measuring AI success.Customization of AI tools is possible to fit specific workflows.AI can enhance customer acquisition processes.Automation can streamline operations and improve efficiency.Engaging with AI experts requires understanding their jargon. Sound bites "AI and automation can solve repetitive tasks." "AI can help you focus on the selling." "Automation can be customized for my workflow." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI and Automation 06:00 Understanding AI and Automation in Business 11:14 Addressing Common Misconceptions about AI 14:04 Practical Applications of AI in Business 16:57 Customization and Implementation of AI Solutions 19:49 Measuring Success with AI Tools Keywords AI, automation, business, technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, workflow, customer acquisition, implementation, success metrics

    19 min
  • 9 Episodes

About

Practical AI for small business entrepreneurs! AI shouldn’t be overwhelming or overhyped. AI Automation Alchemist breaks the noise into actionable playbooks for small business owners and scrappy founders. We cover the headlines that matter, de-risk adoption (security, compliance, costs), and walk through real workflows for leads, service, and back-office. Informational, honest, and inspiring, so you can do less manual work and drive more growth.

Information

  • Creator
    Rey Ortega
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    9
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Rey Ortega
  • Show Website
    AI Automation Alchemist