Summary
Artificial intelligence is everywhere — in marketing platforms, accounting software, ad tools, dashboards, and productivity apps.
But the real question isn’t whether AI exists.
It’s whether it actually helps.
In this episode, Amanda Verner Thompson sits down with entrepreneur Adam Cortez to unpack what AI can realistically do for business owners — and where it’s being oversold.
From startup founders to growth-stage operators, Adam shares what he’s seeing across marketing and bookkeeping: where AI accelerates progress, where it wastes time, and why
tools don’t replace clear thinking.
If you’re a business owner trying to decide which AI tools are worth your time — and which are distractions — this conversation is for you.
What We Cover
Key Takeaway
AI can speed up execution.
It cannot replace clarity.
Business owners who win are not chasing every new tool — they’re focused on core strategy, strong fundamentals, and disciplined decision-making.
Chapters
00:00 – AI Without the Hype
01:10 – From Startup to Operator: Adam’s Journey
03:30 – Patterns Across Growth Stages
05:00 – Where AI Actually Helps in Marketing
09:00 – The Cost of Chasing AI Hype
12:30 – AI in Bookkeeping: Fear vs. Opportunity
16:40 – What AI Can’t Replace
19:50 – Practical Use Cases That Pay
22:45 – Stick to the Core
About the Guest
Adam Cortez is an entrepreneur and operator working at the intersection of marketing, bookkeeping, and business systems for small and mid-sized companies.
He has helped hundreds of business owners move from early traction to scalable operations, bringing a grounded, practical perspective to growth, automation, and financial clarity.
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamcortez/
About the Host
Amanda Verner Thompson is the founder of Madison Advisory AI.
After nearly two decades advising healthcare operators, founders, and investors in investment banking and strategic advisory roles, Amanda launched Madison Advisory AI to explore how leaders build smarter systems, make better decisions, and apply intelligent tools without losing judgment.
The Madison Advisory AI podcast brings together operators, founders, and advisors navigating the intersection of technology, leadership, and decision-making.
🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandavernert
🌐 Website: https://www.madisonadvisory.ai/
Keywords
AI in business, Small business automation, AI for marketing, AI for bookkeeping, Business decision-making, Entrepreneurship, Financial insights, Technology strategy, Operational efficiency, Founder mindset
