[AI Series] AI Tools That Transform Your Business With Nicole Donnelly

Nicole Donnelly is the Owner of AI Smart Ventures, a company dedicated to helping businesses leverage artificial intelligence through customized training, strategic consulting, and implementation services. Since 2013, she has helped over 20,000 people use AI to work smarter and save more than 10 million hours. Nicole is also the Founder of AI Smart Marketing, an agency that uses AI-powered tools and emotion-driven experience design to grow brands and optimize marketing operations. With 18 years in marketing and three successful exits, her aim is to help leaders build sustainable, values-led growth with AI. In this episode… Artificial intelligence is changing the way businesses operate, from automating tedious tasks to unlocking entirely new levels of creativity and efficiency. But with so many AI tools launching daily, how can business owners separate the hype from the truly transformative solutions? Which technologies are actually helping teams save time, grow faster, and make smarter decisions? According to Nicole Donnelly, a marketing innovator and AI educator, the key to harnessing AI lies in experimentation and integration. She explains that her team has spent nearly a decade testing tools like Gemini, Claude, Copilot, and Jasper to determine which deliver real results in content, design, and automation. Nicole highlights that consistent experimentation — such as testing prompts quarterly across different models — helps businesses stay ahead as the technology evolves. By weaving AI into workflows, from video creation and outreach to SEO optimization, she shows how even small teams can achieve enterprise-level productivity and creativity. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Nicole Donnelly, Owner and Founder of AI Smart Ventures and AI Smart Marketing, to discuss AI tools that transform business operations. She reveals her top-tested platforms for design, outreach, and automation, and how to use AI for hyper-personalized marketing. Nicole also shares how companies can stay secure, compliant, and innovative while adopting new technologies.

Ephraim Ebstein is the Founder and CEO of FIT Solutions, a San Diego-based leader in managed IT and cybersecurity services. Under his leadership, FIT Solutions helps organizations cut costs, boost efficiency by up to 40%, and defend against evolving cyber threats. Serving clients across healthcare, finance, and law, Ephraim builds his companies around one guiding belief — that innovation starts with people. He's also the Co-founder of AI Integrators, a venture helping organizations accelerate performance through AI-powered solutions such as human-like virtual employees and intelligent concierge bots. In this episode… AI is rewriting the rules of customer engagement, building smarter, faster, more personal experiences than ever. Yet as tech takes center stage, many leaders risk losing the culture and connection that drive lasting success. Can AI fuel growth and strengthen what makes a company human? Ephraim shares how he transformed a small IT venture into a $30 million success and how his latest project is helping businesses truly harness the power of AI. He explains how his team creates AI "employees" that text customers with human-like names, personalities, and even realistic pauses or typos to make conversations feel natural. Ephraim also shares real stories — from hotels using AI concierges to online shops managing thousands of chats — showing how AI boosts both efficiency and engagement.  In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, host Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Ephraim Epstein, Founder and CEO of FIT Solutions, to discuss how AI and strong team culture fuel business growth. They explore using AI to drive revenue, streamline support, and revive leads — while keeping people at the center. He shares his "professional sports team" approach to leadership, mentorship, and hiring, offering actionable strategies to scale any organization without losing its human touch.

Jordan Solender is the CEO and Founder of IT Select, a tech advisory firm transforming how companies acquire IT solutions through AI-powered procurement. Under his leadership, IT Select has expanded to serve clients across 38 states and earned recognition from FinTech TV and CIO Review. A lifelong entrepreneur, Jordan has launched several ventures in tech, events, and hospitality. He's passionate about helping founders scale smarter through automation, delegation, and process optimization, driven by his belief that technology can turn complexity into growth. In this episode… Founders often find themselves buried in endless processes — approvals, meetings, and decisions that only they can make. Growth slows, teams wait, and burnout creeps in. What if you could cut weeks off your workflow, remove yourself as the bottleneck, and let automation handle the heavy lifting? According to Jordan Solender, a multi-business builder who turns chaos into scalable systems, scaling faster starts with replacing manual control with intelligent systems. He shares how he transformed IT procurement with AI through his company IT Select, and how the same principles apply to any business. From hosting Decision Maker Dinners that foster collaboration without sales pressure to using AI voice agents that qualify leads in seconds, Jordan reveals how to eliminate inefficiency at every level. He shows how founders can reclaim hours each week by systemizing, automating, and relentlessly optimizing their operations. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz talks with Jordan Solender, Founder of IT Select, about removing bottlenecks and scaling through automation. They discuss Jordan's bottleneck framework, the role of AI and SOPs, and lessons from his EO network and books like Buy Back Your Time. He shares how he helps founders reclaim time and scale smarter.

Robert Hartline is the Founder of Scaling Sober. Adi Klevit is the CEO and Founder of Business Success Consulting Group. Zeke Camusio is the CEO of Data Speaks. Asif Rehmani is the Founder and CEO of VisualSP. Rolando Rosas is the Founder of Global Teck Worldwide Inc. Dr. Kim Tran is the Founder and Doctor of Chiropractic at Minnesota Family Chiropractic. In this episode… Scaling a business while staying sane isn't easy, especially in a world fueled by constant innovation and AI disruption. Entrepreneurs are juggling growth, team management, and personal well-being simultaneously. So how do the most successful leaders harness technology and mindset to achieve balance instead of burnout? Robert Hartline shares how entrepreneurs can stay grounded by identifying emotional triggers, applying EOS systems for structure, and replacing destructive habits with purpose-driven routines. Adi Klevit streamlines chaos through documented processes and focused tools, while Zeke Camusio uses data analytics to reduce uncertainty and guide smart marketing decisions. Asif Rehmani leverages AI to simplify workflows and learning, Rolando Rosas promotes authentic communication and empathy in negotiation, and Dr. Kim Tran emphasizes faith, balance, and daily consistency as the foundation of resilience. Together, they show that success without burnout comes from clarity, connection, and small, consistent actions.  In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz is joined by Robert Hartline, Adi Klevit, Zeke Camusio, Asif Rehmani, Rolando Rosas, and Dr. Kim Tran to talk about using AI, systems, and mindset to scale without burning out. They explore how process documentation empowers teams, why AI can become a true business partner, and how mindfulness supports sustainable leadership. They also share their favorite books, podcasts, and tools for growth.

Ethan King is the Co-founder of Zeus' Closet and Stuff4GREEKS, two custom apparel companies known for their creative designs and advanced embroidery for fraternities, sororities, and the entertainment industry. Peter Bemko is a Business Strategy Consultant with WSI, the world's largest full-service digital marketing agency network. Glenn Dawson is the Founder of ResetU Fitness, a transformative health and performance program designed to help high achievers eliminate chronic pain and reclaim their vitality. Steve Gumm is the Founder of LeadPass Marketing, a marketing strategy and consulting firm that partners with clients on a case-by-case basis to drive growth through innovative lead generation solutions. In this episode… Top entrepreneurs and business leaders are constantly navigating rapid technological changes, mastering new tools, and refining their strategies. Without the right resources, they risk falling behind, losing focus, and missing opportunities. How do they stay sharp, scale effectively, and maintain a competitive edge? Ethan King, Peter Bemko, Glenn Dawson, and Steve Gumm share how they use automation, AI, marketing strategies, and structured programs to grow their businesses and support their clients. From scaling an embroidery business and refining digital marketing approaches to transforming health and wellness and managing fractional CMO projects, they discuss their favorite books, podcasts, and apps that keep them sharp and innovative. Their insights emphasize the value of practical tools, continuous learning, and consistent habits for personal and professional growth. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, host Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Ethan King, Peter Bemko, Glenn Dawson, and Steve Gumm to explore actionable strategies for scaling businesses efficiently. They dive into lessons learned from real-world projects, the best resources to stay ahead in fast-changing industries, and tips for maintaining focus and momentum. Entrepreneurs will gain practical insights for growing their business while remaining adaptable, innovative, and balanced.

John Corcoran is the Co-founder of Rise25. Chris Dreyer is the Founder and CEO of Rankings.io. Larry Benet is the CEO and Chief Connector of Larry Benet Agency. Ed O'Keefe is CEO of EOK Media – OfferWingman and Founder of Dentist Profits.AI. Thad Winston is a business connector and consultant at True Scale Marketing. Mark Hiddleson is the Owner of Specialized Storage Solutions. Jason Ciment is the CEO of Get Visible. Nicholas Loise is the Founder of Your Sales Recruiter and Sales Performance Team. Duncan Alney is the Founder and CEO of Firebelly Marketing. Mat Zalk is the Owner of Keyrenter Property Management. In this episode… The best leaders don't just manage; they connect. They inspire trust, create belonging, and build brands that endure because they put people at the center of everything. What happens when great minds from across industries come together to share how real connection drives success? From marketing visionaries to business strategists and community builders, this conversation dives into the power of relationships as the foundation of leadership and brand growth. Through stories of risk, resilience, and reinvention, the guests reveal how empathy, communication, and authenticity shape not only strong teams but also companies that stand the test of time. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz is joined by John Corcoran, Chris Dreyer, Larry Benet, Ed O'Keefe, Thad Winston, Mark Hiddleson, Jason Ciment, Nicholas Loise, Duncan Alney, and Mat Zalk to discuss how great leaders build trust, teams, and timeless brands. They explore the role of generosity in networking, the importance of purpose-driven culture, and how connection fuels long-term growth.

Chad Rubin is the Founder and CEO of Profasee, a dynamic pricing platform enabling brands to predict the optimum price for every product. Jason Swenk is the Founder of Agency Mastery 360, a company dedicated to helping digital agency owners grow and scale their businesses. Todd Taskey is a Partner at Tower Partners and an M&A advisor at Potomac Business Capital, a boutique investment banking firm helping business owners with sales, mergers, and acquisitions to maximize value. In this episode… The pursuit of success often hides a quieter struggle — the constant tug-of-war between ambition, attention, and alignment. Entrepreneurs chase growth, yet time, focus, and meaningful connection remain their scarcest resources. What if the real edge in business isn't doing more but refining how we think, learn, and connect? Chad Rubin, Jason Swenk, and Todd Taskey reveal the books, tools, and habits that keep them grounded while driving exponential growth. Chad credits The 4-Hour Workweek, Atomic Habits, and Lost and Founder for reshaping his view of time and leadership — and shares how AI tools like WisprFlow and Readwise help him communicate faster and retain key lessons. Jason points to Giftology and Never Lose a Client Again as blueprints for loyalty, pairing them with Trello's visual workflow to stay organized and creative. Todd highlights the Same as Ever and The Psychology of Money as reminders that human behavior never changes, pairing wisdom with everyday apps like Maps and Genius Scan to keep life simple and efficient. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz talks with Chad Rubin, Jason Swenk, and Todd Taskey about the books, podcasts, and tools that shape their leadership and innovation. They discuss lessons from entrepreneurship, the power of AI for productivity, and how continuous learning and curiosity fuel lasting success.

Barry Kleiman is the Founder, Executive Mentor, and Workshop Leader at Barry C. Kleiman & Associates, a firm he established in 1979 to help executives and teams elevate performance through leadership development and coaching.  Jason Smith is the Owner and CEO of Spotlight Social Advertising, a company that specializes in helping businesses grow and scale with Facebook and Instagram ads. Zach Wilcox is the Founder and CEO of Fide Freight, a representative logistics solution providing a full range of services in long and short-distance freight, specialty haulage, and management of dry freights. Ian Garlic is the Founder of Garlic Marketing, the brand behind Video Case Story, where they help brands with the strategy and goals for video case stories. In this episode… What do successful leaders, entrepreneurs, and creators all have in common? They're constantly seeking tools and ideas that help them connect better — with others, their teams, and themselves. But in a world of endless options, how do you know which books, podcasts, or habits actually move the needle? For today's guests, the answer starts with curiosity and connection. They share how leadership lessons from sports, creativity, and business mentorship continue to shape their personal and professional growth. From refining time management to building resilience and embracing storytelling, each guest emphasizes the importance of learning from experience and surrounding yourself with inspiration that drives both action and reflection. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz talks with Barry Kleiman, Jason Smith, Zach Wilcox, and Ian Garlic about the books, podcasts, and tools that influence how they lead and live. They discuss how reading fuels creativity, why discipline and mindset are essential to growth, and how digital tools can help organize ideas and inspire innovation.

Dr. Dave Jones is the Founder of M is Good, one of the world's largest Christian marketing agencies, and creator of the R7 Process for vision-centered communication. A former pro hockey player turned sport and performance psychology consultant, he has coached elite NHL and NFL athletes for over 20 years while leading an agency that has served hundreds of clients worldwide. Author of Vision Wins: 7 Strategies for Mental Toughness in Life and Sports, Dr. Jones is passionate about faith-driven leadership, peak performance, and helping others turn setbacks into vision-fueled success. In this episode… Setbacks in business and sports can stall momentum and erode confidence, while hidden barriers such as fear, lust, anger, and pride can quietly sabotage progress. Vision blurs, emotions take over, and resilience fades. But can mental toughness tools and clear vision turn valleys into stepping stones — and help leaders, athletes, and entrepreneurs thrive under pressure? Dr. Dave Jones shares how setbacks in business and hockey shaped his approach to vision-centered communication and mental resilience. He introduces his R7 Process for clarifying vision and strategy, addresses the "FLAP" factors — fear, lust, anger, and pride — that sabotage success, and offers practical tools, like the "reload" technique and affirmations. Drawing parallels between sports and business, he highlights the importance of self-awareness, coachability, and preparation for inevitable challenges. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, host Dr. Jeremy Weisz talks with Dr. Dave Jones about unlocking peak performance and resilience in life and business. Dr. Jones shares his R7 framework and mental toughness tools used by elite athletes to manage stress, reframe setbacks, and stay goal-focused. They also explore mentorship, emotional intelligence, and putting others first — offering mindset shifts for leaders, athletes, and entrepreneurs alike.

Collin Stewart is the Founder and CEO of Predictable Revenue, a sales outsourcing company that helps B2B businesses build repeatable, scalable sales development teams. Under his leadership, Predictable Revenue has become a recognized leader in sales consulting, delivering over 10,000 booked meetings and scaling outbound sales for more than 55 companies. Recognized for his data-driven, practical approach to solving sales challenges, Collin also hosts the Predictable Revenue podcast, which boasts over 400 episodes.  In this episode… Rushing to scale before confirming real market demand is a common startup trap. Founders may hire sales leaders too soon, invest heavily in marketing, and burn through cash without a proven customer pull. How can entrepreneurs mitigate this risk and develop a sales process that truly meets customer needs? Collin Stewart, an expert in outbound sales and customer development, learned this lesson firsthand. In his early ventures, he invested heavily in building tools without confirming that buyers cared, which cost him years of effort. Over time, Collin discovered that the key was starting with customer development interviews, asking the right questions, and carefully transitioning from learning conversations into sales. He now advises founders to validate product-market fit themselves before handing sales off, to avoid what he calls "founder suicide." In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Collin Stewart, Founder and CEO of Predictable Revenue, about bridging the gap between customer development and sales. Collin shares why premature scaling is a startup killer, his framework for running effective customer interviews, and lessons from working with companies like Uber. He also discusses best practices for cold email deliverability, targeting strategies, and his favorite tools for modern sales teams.