Description:
In this episode of The Builders, Matt reconnects with Rob Broadhead, founder of RB Consulting, to explore how businesses can make better technology decisions in an era dominated by AI hype, tool overload, and constant pressure to “keep up.” Rather than chasing shiny solutions, Rob makes the case for slowing down and clearly defining the problems technology is meant to solve.
The conversation digs into a common pattern founders face today. Tools pile up, automations get layered on, and suddenly the business feels more complex instead of more efficient. Rob explains why technology should serve the business roadmap, not dictate it, and why speeding up broken processes only multiplies dysfunction. AI, he notes, amplifies intent. If the problem isn’t well understood, the output won’t be either.
Matt and Rob also explore AI’s most overlooked value. Not automation alone, but its role as a thinking partner. Used well, AI becomes a sounding board that helps leaders uncover blind spots, test assumptions, and discover better questions to ask. The takeaway is refreshingly grounded. Builders do not need to implement everything at once. They need to start small, stay intentional, and let clarity lead the build.
Key Takeaways:
- Technology should fit the business, not force the business to adapt to tools
- AI accelerates outcomes, good or bad, depending on how well problems are defined
- Overwhelm often comes from chasing solutions without clarity
- Start with one meaningful use case instead of trying to “AI everything”
- AI is most powerful as a thinking partner, not just an automation engine
- Strong systems evolve through intention, not pressure or fear of being left behind
Rob Broadhead
Rob is a veteran software architect, entrepreneur, and mentor with over 30 years in technology and business. He’s the founder of RB Consulting and the voice behind the Develpreneur Podcast, where he helps developers and business leaders turn ideas into real-world success.
Rob’s passion is helping people build better — smarter systems, stronger teams, and more meaningful careers.
THE MEAT OF IT!
- The Pressure to Use AI
- Why founders feel behind before they even start
- How hype creates urgency without clarity
- Why Tools Don’t Equal Systems
- The danger of speeding up broken processes
- When technology creates more complexity
- Defining the Right Problem First
- Where most tech initiatives fail
- Why clarity beats capability
- AI as a Thinking Partner
- Using AI to explore, not just automate
- Letting better questions guide better systems
- Building Smarter Systems Incrementally
- Starting with one meaningful win
- Letting systems evolve alongside the business
- First Principles for Builders in an AI Era
- Slowing down to move faster
Check out these related Episodes:
- Episode 258: Stephanie Sylvestre – From Diplomat to AI Founder: Building AI That Helps Humans Do Better
- Episode 255: Rob Broadhead – How Early Failures Shaped a Business-First Approach to Technology
- Episode 254: Dan Daly – How He Used Brand, Vision, and Commitment to Build & Create Rapid Business Growth
