Start Small, Think Big - A podcast and newsletter that guides you on your AI and Automation journey.

Digital Meld

Start Small, Think Big is your practical guide to AI, automation, data, analytics, and business process improvement hosted by Brad Groux (CEO), and Robert Groux (CTO) from Digital Meld. Each episode explores actionable insights, real-world applications, and expert advice, featuring guest interviews, the latest industry news, and engaging discussions. Join us as we demystify technology and share strategies that can help any business innovate, scale effectively, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing business landscape.

  1. JAN 27

    How a Non-Tech Entrepreneur Uses AI 100 Times a Day, with Randy Gage | Episode #0033

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. Special thanks to Randy Gage. Summary In this episode of the Start Small Think Big podcast, host Brad Groux welcomes Randy Gage, an entrepreneur and author with a unique perspective on the intersection of AI and personal growth. Randy shares his remarkable journey from a troubled youth, including time spent in jail, to becoming a successful coach and advocate for entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the transformative power of AI, not just as a technological tool but as a catalyst for personal and professional growth. Randy discusses how he has integrated AI into his daily life and business practices, allowing him to focus on his 'genius zone' while automating repetitive tasks. He also highlights the importance of personal branding in a world where knowledge is increasingly commoditized by AI. Keywords AI, entrepreneurship, personal growth, Randy Gage, technology, personal branding, automation, business transformation, Start Small Think Big, Digital Meld Takeaways AI is the most cataclysmic disruption of our lifetime. You need to embrace technology to operate in your genius zone. Personal branding is more important than corporate branding today. If you're not using AI, you're not serious about your business. Focus on solving problems to create business opportunities.Titles Unlocking Potential: How AI Transforms Entrepreneurship From Jail to Success: Randy Gage's Journey with AIAI Will Make “What You Know” Worthless, So Build What You Think Stop Selling What You Know: AI Is Changing Every Business ModelHow a Non-Tech Entrepreneur Uses AI 100 Times a DayAI Agents Are Replacing 6 Hours of Work in 4 Seconds, Here’s HowThe Real AI Advantage: Personal Brand, IP, and Getting Out of the MatrixSound bites "This is going to be the most disruptive change of our lifetime." "In three years, people will pay you for what you think, not what you know." "Get off social media; it's a toxic cesspool."Chapters 00:00 Introductions 01:03 Randy's Unique Journey and Perspective 02:53 The Revolutionary Impact of AI 04:56 Embracing AI in Entrepreneurship 07:33 Mindsets to Overcome in Adopting AI 11:58 The Importance of Personal Branding 18:31 Building a Personal Brand in the Digital Age 23:43 Becoming an Iconic Thought Leader 27:00 The Insurance Gap and Entrepreneurial Solutions 28:05 AI's Impact on Industries 29:15 Leveraging AI for Podcasting Efficiency 32:28 The Importance of Delegation and Genius Zones 37:54 Embracing AI and Automation in Daily Tasks 44:52 The Call to Action: Get Off Social Media 51:37 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.

    52 min

  2. JAN 23

    AI Automation That Pays Off: Speed-to-Lead and Reactivation with Michael Elliott | Episode #0032

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. Special thanks to  ⁨@michaelelliottai⁩. Summary In this episode, Brad Groux and Michael Elliott discuss the transformative power of AI and automation in business. Michael shares his personal journey from struggling with depression to becoming a successful entrepreneur managing multiple seven-figure businesses. They explore the importance of authenticity in content creation, the need for business leaders to embrace automation, and practical advice for non-technical teams looking to implement AI solutions. The conversation emphasizes the significance of focusing on impactful actions and leveraging technology to streamline processes and enhance productivity. Keywords digital marketing, AI, automation, entrepreneurship, business growth, content creation, personal development, overcoming struggles, business strategy, technology Takeaways Michael Elliott's journey from personal struggles to business success is inspiring.AI and automation can significantly streamline business processes.Authenticity in content creation is crucial for building trust with audiences.Focusing on the 20% of actions that drive results is essential for success.Non-technical teams can still leverage AI tools effectively.Business leaders must embrace automation to stay competitive.The future of business will heavily rely on AI and automation.Starting small with automation can lead to significant improvements over time.Building a community and sharing knowledge is vital for growth.Entrepreneurship is more accessible than ever with the right mindset and tools.Titles Transforming Struggles into Success: Michael Elliott's Journey Harnessing AI for Business GrowthAI Isn’t Magic, It’s Leverage, How Operators Use Automation to Buy Back TimeSound bites "Start small, think big.""Don't be scared of automation, lean into it.""AI is just leverage, not magic."Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Digital Marketing Journey 02:42 The Evolution of AI in Business 05:46 The Importance of Automation 08:33 Building a YouTube Channel for Knowledge Sharing 11:17 Aha Moments in Automation 14:17 The Role of AI in Business Efficiency 17:16 Encouraging Business Leaders to Embrace AI 20:07 Overcoming Resistance to Automation 22:48 The Future of AI in Business 33:45 Embracing Automation for Entrepreneurship 37:10 Overcoming Barriers to Implementation 40:03 The Importance of Taking Action 42:32 Pitching AI Solutions Effectively 44:30 Leveraging AI for Personal Growth 45:12 Creating Valuable Content with AI 48:01 The Power of Belief and Action 50:13 Lessons Learned from the Journey 57:26 Focusing on What Matters 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.

    1h 2m

  3. 12/16/2025

    AI for the Mid-Market: How Small Wins, Private LLMs, and Automation Scale Businesses | Episode #0031

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 BusinessesNavigating AI Adoption Challenges in Smaller CompaniesSound 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 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.

    1h 2m

  4. 12/08/2025

    Engineering Intelligence: Safe AI, Smart Agents, & the Future of Collective Machines | Episode #0030

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 FutureThe 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 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.

    59 min

  5. 12/02/2025

    Aggie Innovators: How Texas A&M Students Are Igniting the Future of AI and Business | Episode #0029

    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.

    57 min

  6. 11/24/2025

    Designing the Future – How AI is Reshaping Digital Experience with Lucas Blondheim | Episode #0028

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 CreativitySound 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.

    52 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Scaling HR with AI - How Propulsion AI is Redefining People Ops with Scott Morris | Episode #0027

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 TransformationThe Future of Work: AI and Human ResourcesSound 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.

    58 min

  8. 09/16/2025

    Lighting the Path to your Agentic AI Journey with Hanah Darley | Episode #0026

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 GeordieThe 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 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.

    1h 8m
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4.9
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Start Small, Think Big is your practical guide to AI, automation, data, analytics, and business process improvement hosted by Brad Groux (CEO), and Robert Groux (CTO) from Digital Meld. Each episode explores actionable insights, real-world applications, and expert advice, featuring guest interviews, the latest industry news, and engaging discussions. Join us as we demystify technology and share strategies that can help any business innovate, scale effectively, and stay ahead in a rapidly changing business landscape.

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