For many small business owners, “doing it all” has become the norm - but it’s also the very thing limiting growth. In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Shannon Smit reframes AI not as a complex, technical trend, but as a practical opportunity to take pressure off and reclaim time. Rather than seeing AI as a content-writing tool, Shannon encourages business owners to think of it as their first digital team member - one that can handle repetitive tasks, streamline decision-making, and support day-to-day operations in a meaningful way.
A key shift explored in the conversation is the move from basic AI tools to AI agents. While many are familiar with asking platforms like ChatGPT to rewrite content, Shannon explains that the real opportunity lies in systems that can take action - drafting emails, pulling data, triggering workflows, and supporting processes across marketing, customer service, admin, and sales. This evolution allows business owners to move beyond small efficiency gains and start removing entire layers of low-value work, freeing them up to focus on higher-impact activities that actually drive the business forward. .
What makes this especially powerful is the advantage small businesses have right now. Without the layers, restrictions, and slower adoption cycles of larger organisations, small businesses are uniquely positioned to experiment, adapt, and embed AI quickly. Shannon makes it clear that this moment isn’t about becoming more technical - it’s about becoming more effective. The businesses that lean in, test, and iterate will be the ones that gain a competitive edge, simply by moving faster and smarter than the rest.
Importantly, getting started doesn’t require a complete overhaul. The most effective approach is to start small and stay practical: pick one repetitive task, trial one tool, and build from there. The goal isn’t automation for the sake of it - it’s about creating real time savings unique to your business. Ultimately, the biggest transformation comes from a mindset shift: moving away from “I have to do everything” and towards asking, “What should I stop doing?” Once that shift happens, AI becomes less about technology and more about creating space to focus on the work that truly matters.
Shannon will be diving deeper into these ideas in her upcoming keynote at the B.I.T.E
Business Conference
on 5 August, 2026 at Mornington Racecourse, where she’ll share practical, step-by-step ways to integrate AI into everyday business
operations.
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Shannon Smit dives deep into the compelling world of using self-managed super funds (SMSFs) to invest in property. With her signature energy and expertise, Shannon explains the mechanics of SMSFs, contrasting them with retail and industry super funds, and revealing the unique power they offer individuals to take control of their financial future.
What does it take to turn a modest property portfolio into a self-sufficient powerhouse? In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Shannon Smit invites you into the fascinating journey of property investment, revealing the key steps, strategies, and mindset shifts that can transform two properties into a thriving, cash flow-neutral portfolio.
Smit is well-known for her years of international and local experience, expertise in niche areas, small business tactics and her recruitment process for young up-and-comers.
Aged care financial planning is a highly specialised area that requires not only financial expertise but also an understanding of the
emotional challenges families face. In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, host Shannon Smit sits down with Aged Care Financial
Advice specialists to unpack the complexities of aged care funding.
In this episode of the podcast, host Shannon Smit sits down with the dynamic and globally renowned futurist Steve Sammartino to discuss the transformative power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and what it means for businesses, society, and the future.
In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, host Shannon Smit discusses the massive wealth transfer expected from Baby Boomers to the next generation, estimated at $84 trillion. Shannon highlights the opportunities and challenges of this transfer, focusing on estate planning, tax liabilities
Systemisation is more than just a buzzword—it's a game-changer for businesses aiming to achieve sustainable growth. In our recent podcast episode, I had the chance to explore this topic with Dave Jenyns, the visionary founder of SYSTEMology and SYSTEMhub.
Explore how adopting an AI-first approach can transform businesses! David Jenyns from Systemology chats with Shannon Smit who shares how AI and robotic process automation (RPA) have revolutionised the operations at Smart Business Solutions.
In this podcast, we talk with Mick Simmons, founder of Mental Health Safety Net, a grass-roots organisation that provides suicide awareness training to workplaces and schools. Trigger Warning: This episode has content related to suicide and mental health issues.
It’s time to take control of your time. It’s time to stop being ‘busy’ and start being ‘productive’. It’s time to learn how to invest your time to create your best life. Kate Christie has taught time to thousands of professionals and business owners around the world – exactly how to find hours of extra time and then design their best lives. What would 30 extra hours a month mean to you?
Heather Gallagher has spearheaded transformative initiatives in the mortgage broker space through her role as Head of Training and Education at outsource Financial. She has been instrumental in empowering brokers and administrative staff through tailored mentoring programs and weekly learning sessions.
Explore the world of self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) with expert Shannon Smit as she shares insights on wealth-building, retirement planning, and investment strategies using super as a vehicle.
Join Shannon Smit as she interviews Sharyn McClafferty, CEO of Slipstream Group, in a podcast episode discussing leadership, team growth, and the value of continuous learning and development for business success.
In this episode we explore the key areas in your business that you can influence to promote growth, adapt the seven ways to grow for your unique business, and understand how these strategies impact your profit and cash flow.
In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Shannon's expert advice will help you make informed financial decisions and stay connected to your goals, ensuring a financial future you are committed to work towards.
In this podcast episode of The Accountant That Builds we're starting off with a deep dive into the world of superannuation, helping you understand how to make the most of your retirement savings.
In this episode of The Accountant That Builds, Shannon Smit talks about business structure and setting yourself up with the right foundations to ensure a stable ground to encourage business growth, hiring, expansion and compliance.
