Proof Point

Stacie Porter Bilger
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This is Proof Point podcast where we decode digital success, one click at a time. We share key takeaways fueled by data and insights that your team can implement today to drive growth.

  1. 6 MAY

    The AI Stack: Tools, Tactics, and Team Adoption

    Nicole Donnelly is the Founder and globally recognized AI Adoption Specialist at AI Smart Ventures, a company dedicated to helping teams integrate AI with clarity, confidence, and real‑world impact. As an award-winning prompt engineer, she has nearly two decades of entrepreneurial leadership experience combined with over a decade of guiding organizations to adopt AI effectively. Dedicated to making AI transformational, Nicole trains professionals and delivers hands‑on workshops, consulting, and strategy to streamline processes and drive growth. Her work has helped thousands adopt AI and saved millions of productivity hours. In this episode… AI is evolving rapidly, and teams across industries are experimenting with tools at every level of business. However, many of these experiments fail to deliver real, tangible results. To truly harness AI's potential, companies must transform scattered tools and ideas into cohesive systems that drive growth. But what does it take to build an AI stack that your team can consistently use and scale? Nicole Donnelly, a global AI speaker and entrepreneur, says the answer starts with practical implementation — using AI to simplify workflows, strengthen marketing, and create scalable systems that actually deliver results. She explains that businesses must think in three layers: AI-powered SEO for visibility, generative AI for daily productivity, and autonomous agents for advanced automation. The real impact comes when teams combine these tools with strong systems and human oversight, ensuring their unique strengths aren't lost in automation. Nicole also emphasizes that early AI adoption provides a competitive edge, especially by structuring content and data in ways AI can easily discover and prioritize. Ultimately, success with AI isn't about using more tools — it's about using the right ones effectively and consistently across the organization. In this episode of Proof Point, Stacie Porter Bilger sits down with Nicole Donnelly, Founder and AI Adoption Specialist at AI Smart Ventures, to discuss building an effective AI stack. Nicole details some AI tools for workflow automation, tactics for AI-driven SEO and content strategy, and how to drive team adoption. She also shares advice on training teams and maintaining a human touch in AI-powered systems.

    1 hr

  2. 22 APR

    By Humans, for Humans: The Right Way To Integrate AI

    Ken McLoud is the Founder of Laconic Tech, a technology company focused on helping businesses harness the power of artificial intelligence and custom software to streamline operations, boost efficiency, and unlock growth. Drawing on his experience in AI engineering and strategic consulting, he partners with clients to design solutions that integrate smoothly with existing systems and deliver measurable business results. Prior to founding Laconic Technology, Ken worked as a Design Engineer at Ruger Firearms, where he leveraged his technical expertise to develop innovative products. In this episode… AI is everywhere, and it's not slowing down. But most companies are still struggling to use it in a way that actually drives results. It's easy to get caught up in the hype, tools, and trends without seeing real impact. So how can businesses integrate AI in a way that truly supports people, improves workflows, and creates meaningful growth? Ken McLoud, an engineer with over 15 years of experience building complex systems, explains that the most effective way to integrate AI is by using it to enhance human capability — not replace it. He emphasizes focusing on workflows instead of roles, identifying bottlenecks, and automating repetitive tasks to increase output without expanding teams. He also highlights the importance of aligning AI initiatives with real business problems, not chasing trends. The result is more efficient operations, better decision-making, and scalable growth. By combining strategy, implementation, and follow-through, businesses can turn AI into a practical advantage rather than a distraction. In this episode of Proof Point, Stacie Porter Bilger sits down with Ken McLoud, Founder of Laconic Tech, to talk about the right way to integrate AI into your business. They explore using AI to enhance teams, building custom solutions for workflows, and avoiding the trap of trend-driven adoption. Ken also shares advice on identifying the right AI opportunities for long-term growth.

    40 min

  3. 8 APR

    People-Powered Growth: No-Fluff Operator Conversations on Culture, Scale, and the Exit

    Carrie Schroeder is the Principal, Lead Executive Coach, and Sales Strategist at Polaris Advisors, a consulting firm that helps organizations align strategy, culture, and operations to drive growth and successful transitions. With over 25 years of global experience in sales, business development, and M&A integration, she specializes in unlocking human potential and improving team performance. She is also a Co-founder and Partner at The B2B Builder, a women-led consulting firm focused on accelerating growth for purpose-driven organizations. Carrie is known for blending strategic insight with a strong focus on people, leadership, and sustainable business impact. Matt Curts is the Principal and Lead Culture and Operations Strategist at Polaris Advisors. With over 25 years of experience across finance, leadership, and consulting, he specializes in culture diagnostics, leadership development, and operational planning. He is also a Co-founder at Switchback to Simple, where he helps organizations unlock team potential through culture-focused training and conversations. Matt is known for guiding leaders to align purpose with performance and create healthier, more resilient organizations. In this episode… Growth isn't just about strategy, systems, or scale — it's about people. Yet many leaders still treat culture as a "nice to have" instead of a core driver of performance and valuation. What if the real bottleneck in your business isn't the market, but how your people are aligned, developed, and empowered? Carrie Schroeder and Matt Curts, seasoned operators and advisors, emphasize that people-powered growth is the foundation of sustainable scale and successful exits. They explain that businesses often suffer from an invisible "relational drag" caused by misalignment, lack of trust, and unclear communication. Carrie underscores the importance of psychological safety and self-awareness in teams, while Matt highlights the need for leadership evolution — from doing the work to developing others. Together, they show how addressing these human dynamics unlocks performance, builds resilience, and increases enterprise value. They also stress that founders must detach from day-to-day operations to create transferable, sellable businesses, reinforcing that culture and leadership are not soft skills but strategic assets. In this episode of Proof Point, Stacie Porter Bilger is joined by Carrie Schroeder and Matt Curts, Principals at Polaris Advisors, to discuss how culture drives scale and exit readiness. They explore founder dependency risks, leadership development gaps, the hidden cost of disengaged teams, and how to build a transferable business. Carrie and Matt also give advice on preparing early for succession and navigating the evolving M&A landscape.

    1hr 1min

  4. 26/11/2025

    Courtside Marketing: Inside the Pacers & Fever Brand Experience

    Tyler Beadlescomb is the Senior Vice President of Marketing and Content at Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PS&E), a leading organization that manages the Indiana Pacers, Indiana Fever, and other major live events across Indiana. Tyler oversees brand strategy, creative direction, and content innovation, guiding multi-platform marketing that strengthens fan engagement and drives organizational growth. Before joining PS&E, he held senior roles at TikTok, FOX Sports, and the Oakland Raiders, where he built high-impact digital campaigns and audience development programs. His career is defined by data-informed strategy, creative leadership, and consistent results. In this episode… A compelling story drives emotion, and emotion drives loyalty — especially in sports. But how do modern franchises turn everyday moments into powerful stories that captivate fans year-round while also using data to fuel smarter decision-making? And what happens when storytelling meets a rapidly expanding fan base? Tyler Beadlescomb, a seasoned leader in sports marketing and content strategy, says the answer starts with putting fans at the center of everything. He explains that great storytelling comes from understanding what fans feel, need, and celebrate — then layering data on top to personalize those moments at scale. He highlights how blending creativity with analytics helps shape year-round engagement, from social content to in-arena experiences. This balanced approach not only deepens loyalty but also expands the footprint of the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever brands. Tyler shares real examples of how this philosophy drives consistency, sparks innovation, and connects diverse generations of fans. In this episode of Proof Point, Stacie Porter Bilger sits down with Tyler Beadlescomb, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Content at Pacers Sports & Entertainment, to discuss how storytelling and data power the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever brands. They explore 365-day content strategy, the impact of player-driven narratives, and how fan behavior shapes creative decisions. Tyler also talks about the rise of global audiences and new opportunities in sports marketing.

    38 min

  5. 29/10/2025

    Building Smarter Systems: How To Integrate AI Into Your Business Workflow

    Stacie Porter Bilger is the Founder and President of Proof Digital, a business growth-marketing agency that blends modern marketing tools with traditional sales funnel processes. She spent the first 20 years of her career working with businesses to strategize development and connect them to investors. Before founding Proof Digital, Stacie worked for several Chambers of Commerce and startups like the Indiana Venture Center. Her commitment to leveraging cutting-edge digital tactics has revolutionized business growth strategies, cementing her status as a digital marketing thought leader. In this episode… As AI transforms how we work, many business leaders still wonder where to begin. With the rapid acceleration of AI's capabilities, how can small and medium-sized businesses begin to implement it effectively without feeling overwhelmed? Is there a way to embrace it without sacrificing the personal touch that defines their brand? Digital marketing expert Stacie Porter Bilger explains that businesses should approach AI with curiosity and start small, testing its capabilities on simple tasks first. She highlights the importance of integrating AI into existing systems, using it to streamline processes like project management and content creation. Stacie emphasizes that AI should enhance, not replace, human creativity, ultimately empowering teams to focus on what truly matters. By thoughtfully implementing AI into workflows, businesses can gain a competitive edge while maintaining a personal connection with their customers. In this episode of Proof Point, Chad Franzen of Rise25 interviews Stacie Porter Bilger, the Founder and President of Proof Digital, about adopting AI to improve business efficiency. They dive into how businesses can take their first steps in AI adoption, how it can drive growth without losing human touch, and strategies for integrating AI into existing workflows. Stacie also shares tips on managing AI ethically and securely within your business.

    48 min

  6. 25/06/2025

    Modern Manufacturing: Challenges, Opportunities, and Leading with Impact

    Scott Hoselton is the President of ACS, a global provider of integrated design-build systems for engine, vehicle, and component testing facilities. With a background in civil engineering and construction management, Scott excels at identifying client needs and aligning ACS's expertise in automation, controls, and facility solutions. Since assuming the presidency in March 2016, he has driven organizational growth by expanding ACS's services across markets like automotive, aerospace, energy, and laboratory sectors. Under his leadership, ACS has fostered strong industry partnerships and earned recognition as a Best Place to Work by Best Companies Group in 2024 and 2025.  In this episode… Many modern manufacturing companies face the compounding pressure of labor shortages, capital investment hurdles, and rapidly evolving technology. As organizations strive to remain competitive and sustainable, they must navigate geopolitical instability, growing regulatory complexity, and increasing customer expectations. How can leaders chart a growth-focused strategy while balancing risk, innovation, and operational execution? Scott Hoselton, an experienced leader in systems integration and technical project delivery, demystifies how firms can tackle these challenges through agile problem-solving, trust-based leadership, and emerging technologies like AI. Scott suggests building strong client relationships by delivering value through transparent communication and technical excellence. He emphasizes upskilling, fostering autonomy, and maintaining a culture of continuous learning to retain top talent. Scott's approach prioritizes adapting to customer needs, managing risk proactively, and regarding challenges as opportunities to improve and innovate. In this episode of Proof Point, Stacie Porter Bilger interviews Scott Hoselton, President of ACS, about leading innovation in complex manufacturing environments. Scott discusses how companies can remain competitive by integrating AI, managing talent strategically, and building scalable, client-focused systems. He also delves into sustainable operations, capital planning for long-cycle projects, and leadership strategies that empower teams.

    45 min

  7. 14/05/2025

    Culture as a Strategy: Leadership Lessons from a Thriving CPA Firm

    Benjamin (BJ) Lippert is a Managing Partner at Donovan CPAs, a full-service accounting firm dedicated to small businesses and their owners. Since joining the firm in 2015, he has been instrumental in revamping the firm's assurance practice, fostering a culture of accountability and growth. His leadership emphasizes structure, consistency, and a people-first approach to client service. BJ's vision focuses on sustainable growth and empowering clients and team members. Jeffrey (Jeff) Donovan, CPA, CVA, and MAFF, is a Managing Partner at Donovan CPAs, where he focuses on long-term strategy and innovation. He began his accounting career with KPMG Peat Marwick in Guam and Saipan before returning to Indiana to join the family firm in 1994. Jeff brings expertise in investments, business strategy, and forensic accounting, and has successfully transitioned the firm's leadership while maintaining a strong focus on entrepreneurial consulting and strategic growth. In this episode… Many business leaders struggle to balance day-to-day operations with long-term vision, leading to burnout, stalled growth, and unclear succession plans. As companies expand, it becomes harder to maintain a people-first culture while scaling leadership responsibilities. How can organizations ensure sustainable growth while empowering their teams and preparing the next generation of leaders? BJ Lippert, an expert in leadership transition and team development, and Jeff Donovan, a strategic visionary with a background in business growth and succession, share their journey navigating these challenges. BJ emphasizes the power of consistent communication, reinforcing core values, and creating intentional systems to keep the team aligned and engaged. Jeff highlights the importance of letting go, trusting others to lead, and using structured frameworks like EOS to provide clarity, accountability, and long-term focus while fostering a culture where people come first. In this episode of Proof Point, Stacie Porter Bilger interviews BJ Lippert and Jeff Donovan, Managing Partners at Donovan CPAs, about leadership succession and scaling a people-first culture. BJ and Jeff also discuss the value of adopting the EOS system, balancing vision with operations, and building a firm where innovation and mentorship thrive.

    48 min

  8. 23/04/2025

    Life After Pro Sports: Building Financial Futures

    Vicki Hall is a Senior Financial Advisor at C.H. Douglas & Gray Wealth Management (CHDG), a firm that specializes in asset management and financial planning. With a background in asset management and financial planning, she helps clients navigate wealth accumulation. She holds series 7 (General Securities) and 66 (Investment Advisor Representative) licenses, alongside certifications in life, health, and long-term care insurance. Prior to finance, Vicki had a 16-year pro basketball career in the ABL and WNBA and is honored in both the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame and UT's Hall of Honor. In this episode… Leaving behind a career in professional sports can be both liberating and daunting, especially when it comes to managing long-term financial stability. Many athletes transition from structured training and clear goals to a world of unfamiliar decisions about money, investments, and planning for the future. How can former athletes redefine success off the court and secure their financial future with confidence? Vicki Hall, a former pro basketball player and now a seasoned wealth management advisor, shares how she repurposed the same discipline that made her an elite athlete to build financial strength. Vicki explains how losing her father led her to understand the risks of financial dependence and inspired her to master the world of investments, compounding, and strategic planning. She demonstrates how understanding retirement accounts and inflation can help athletes — especially those who may have handed off financial decisions — to take the lead with clarity and confidence. In this episode of the Proof Point podcast, Stacie Porter Bilger interviews Vicki Hall, Senior Financial Advisor at C.H. Douglas & Gray Wealth Management, on life after professional sports and building financial futures. Vicki shares her personal story of financial awakening, how athletic principles apply to wealth management, and why knowledge is key. She also dives into empowering women, creating personalized game plans, and educating the next generation of leaders.

    48 min
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About

This is Proof Point podcast where we decode digital success, one click at a time. We share key takeaways fueled by data and insights that your team can implement today to drive growth.

Information

  • Creator
    Stacie Porter Bilger
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Proof Point (c) 2024
  • Show Website
    Proof Point