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

Digital Meld
  • 4.9 (13)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

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. DEC 16

    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

  2. DEC 8

    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

  3. NOV 24

    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

  4. NOV 17

    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

  5. SEP 16

    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

  6. SEP 8

    From Prompt to Product: The AI-Powered Path to Startup Success with Jon Levesque | Episode #0025

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 SeeqFrom 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 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 4m

  7. AUG 29

    Hollywood Disrupted : AI, Creativity & Ethics with Filmmaker Nico Casavecchia | Episode #0024

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 FilmmakingAI 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 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

  8. AUG 25

    At the TX AI Challenge by Pro-Forma at DFW Startup Week | Episode #0023

    Follow the SSTB Newsletter. 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 ChallengeInnovative 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 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 25m
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4.9
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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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