Why Simplicity Wins: AI, Agency Growth, and the Future of Digital Work

In this episode of The AI Advantage, host Solomon Williams sits down with Jesse McCabe, Co-Founder and CEO of Solid Digital, for an honest conversation about what AI really means for modern digital agencies.

With nearly two decades of experience building an agency at the intersection of engineering and design, Jesse shares how AI is reshaping workflows, client relationships, and the very role of websites in a search- and answer-driven world. Rather than chasing every new tool, Jesse makes the case for simplicity, focus, and clear thinking as agencies adapt to rapid change.

Solomon and Jesse explore what it takes to run lean, build trust with clients, and create interactive digital experiences that actually work- without overcomplicating systems or burning out teams. The discussion also touches on how AI can genuinely level the playing field for small businesses, giving them access to capabilities once reserved for much larger organizations.

If you’re an agency leader, founder, or digital professional navigating the AI shift, this episode offers clarity, perspective, and practical insight - minus the hype.

Key Takeaways: 

• Why simplicity is becoming a competitive advantage in AI-driven agencies
• How AI is changing websites, content relevance, and user interaction
• What lean teams must rethink to stay agile and profitable
• Building trust with clients in a fast-changing tech environment
• Using AI to empower small businesses - not overwhelm them
• The mindset shift agencies need as AI reshapes digital services

Key Moments: 

01:12 "Early Tech Passion"

03:30 "Web8: Tech-Driven Creative Agency"

06:35 Evolution of Interactive Website Design

11:09 "Interactive, Transactional Websites Rising"

15:09 "Understanding Visitor Needs"

19:42 "AI's Impact on Team Goals"

23:40 Collaborative Clients Drive Success

25:34 "Leaders Creating Space to Think"

28:32 "Vision and Genuine Client Partnership"

31:46 Earn Trust by Admitting Limits

36:43 "Struggles and Flattering Goals"

37:27 AI Challenges and Market Uncertainty

42:58 Leveraging AI for Problem Solving

43:48 "Empowering Ideas Through Equality"

46:56 "Providing Value Through Stories"

About the guest : 

Jesse McCabe

Company Website:https://www.soliddigital.com

Linkedin URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessemccabe/

Business Linkedin URL: https://www.linkedin.com/company/solid_digital/

email: [email protected]

About the host : 

Solomon Williams is the founder of Solonox and the host of the podcast "AI Advantage." Dedicated to helping modern leaders navigate the future of technology, Solomon cuts through the noise and hype to deliver clear, insightful conversations about AI and automation. On his podcast, he shares his expertise, sometimes solo, sometimes alongside the brightest minds in tech, offering practical advice on what it really takes to grow smarter in a rapidly evolving digital world. With "AI Advantage," Solomon invites listeners to join him on a journey to decode the technologies shaping tomorrow.

Contact Solomon: 

Website: https://solonox.net/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/swilliams1992/