Discover how a former medical tech rep, an AI “insatiable learner,” and a curated expert network are redefining digital transformation for small and mid-sized businesses. This episode dives into practical AI, smarter tech stacks, and the mentality needed to thrive in a world where technology doubles in power every few months.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Origin story and mission of Shape Connect
- Building and integrating the right tech stack for SMBs
- Practical, business-focused uses of AI
- Curated expert networks and vetted referral ecosystems
- Mindset, mentorship, and the “eight wire mentality” for entrepreneurs
Light Bulb Moments:
- Many small and mid-sized companies struggle not because they lack tools, but because their tech stack is fragmented, poorly integrated, and selected in departmental silos.
- AI is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and the real advantage goes to businesses that treat it as a practical problem-solver rather than a buzzword or a threat.
- Successful transformation starts with a diagnostic mindset—understanding workflows, bottlenecks, and real needs—before choosing software or experts.
- The “boring work” that no one wants to do is exactly what AI will increasingly handle, freeing people to focus on higher-value, more human, and more creative work.
- In a world of continuous change, the winning edge comes from being nimble, saying yes to new opportunities, and adopting an “eight wire mentality” of resourcefulness with whatever tools are at hand.
“I do think we have to make sure that we’re setting up a foundation in our business, [that puts our customers] on a trajectory to that state of continuous transformation.” – Brian Zielinski
Brian Zielinski is an innovator with diverse business and military leadership experience. He has served as a Regional Sales Director and Director of Marketing for two multi-billion-dollar healthcare companies. Beyond growing large brands, Brian has spent much of his career helping small and medium-sized healthcare practices build strategies to win in local markets. As a Signal Officer in the US Army, he executed missions in Afghanistan and Kuwait, assessing new technologies and improving network infrastructure. Through his business and military experience, Brian recognized the importance of identifying the right partner vendors to solve problems.
Jonathan Culley’s blend of autodidact and polymath gives him a strong understanding of complex datasets and processing systems. With two decades of experience across multiple disciplines, his curiosity drives him to explore widely. From project management and payment processing to technical services and website creation, Jonathan’s “never say no” attitude has built a reputation for achieving what others deemed impossible. He has held numerous roles and worked with prominent organizations, including a major microchip manufacturer, a Canadian economic think tank, and Google. He is also well-versed in artificial intelligence, with immersive training from AWS.
Connect with Brian Zielinski:
Website: https://www.shapeconnect.com/business-software
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-zielinski07
Connect with Jonathan Culley:
Website: https://shapeconnect.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanculley/
Connect with Me:
Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/
Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw
Podcast Production by Turnkey Podcast. Thinking of starting a podcast? Get more info at https://turnkeypodcast.com/ or reach out to Doug Sandler directly at Doug@TurnkeyPodcast.com or call 410-340-6861.
You’re the expert. Your podcast will prove it.