We talk a lot about artificial intelligence, what it can do, how fast it’s evolving, and why every business should be paying attention. But if you’re like most professionals exploring franchise opportunities, you’re probably asking a much more practical question:
How do I turn AI into a business that actually works for me?
That’s the conversation at the center of the AI Sherpa Podcast—a monthly series hosted by WSI’s Chief AI Officer, Robert Mitchell, and Jack Monson from The Social Geek. Each episode tackles real-world applications of artificial intelligence in business, offering clarity in a space often filled with hype. In the latest episode, Robert is joined by WSI’s Co-Founder, Dan Monaghan, to discuss how AI is reshaping not just marketing but the entire franchise model.
They don’t talk in theory. They discuss outcomes: streamlined operations, increased profitability, and a reimagined business model that puts AI at the core. Listen to the full episode of The AI Sherpa Podcast here:
WSI has done more than simply embrace artificial intelligence—we have redesigned how our business works because of it. That shift is not theoretical. It is already changing outcomes for our franchisees in the real world. “AI is now doing 85% of the work we used to do manually—writing copy, building campaigns, even design and development,” said Dan during the AI Sherpa Podcast. That level of automation is not about cutting corners; it is an approach to scaling smarter. By removing the repetitive executional workload, WSI franchisees focus their time and energy on strategic thinking, client relationships, and high-value consulting work that drives recurring revenue.
This transformation didn’t happen by accident. It was a deliberate move to future-proof the WSI business model. “We re-engineered our model so that AI could do the heavy lifting,” Dan explained. “That completely changed the unit economics of our business.” What this means for you is the opportunity to build a business that delivers real value to clients without being weighed down by production-heavy tasks. With AI handling much of the day-to-day execution, you can operate at a more strategic level, where your time and expertise create a measurable impact. As Dan put it, “Everyone wants to ride the AI wave—but you need a surfboard. WSI gives you that surfboard.”
Artificial intelligence is no longer a distant concept or an emerging trend. It is actively reshaping how businesses operate, make decisions, and compete. While many companies are testing AI tools, most are quickly realizing that tools alone are not enough. They are overwhelmed by options, unsure where to begin, and concerned about falling behind. What they need is not just more technology—they need trusted guidance. They need someone who can help them understand what’s relevant, where to focus, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence.
As a WSI Agency Owner, you are positioned to fill this growing gap in the market. With access to WSI’s Consulting Frameworks, WSI Genius Tools™, and continuous strategic support, you’ll be equipped to help businesses uncover inefficiencies, identify growth opportunities, and implement solutions that deliver results across all business areas. You're not just providing digital marketing solutions—you’re delivering transformation. As Robert Mitchell said during the podcast, “Small and mid-sized businesses will leapfrog competitors that are double or triple their size—because of AI. And our franchisees will be the ones helping them do it.”
One of the most empowering aspects of the WSI franchise opportunity is that you don’t need a background in digital marketing or artificial intelligence to build a successful WSI Agency. You simply need the ambition to lead and the right support system behind you.
At WSI, our mission is to unlock a world of possibility for those we serve. That’s why our franchise system is built to simplify AI—so you can confidently deliver meaningful solutions without needing to be a technical expert. “You don’t have to master the tech—you just have to understand the opportunity,” Robert mentions. With structured onboarding, expert coaching, and a suite of WSI Genius Tools™ at your fingertips, you’ll be equipped to lead conversations, uncover client opportunities, and apply AI in ways that drive measurable business growth.
If you're ready to turn the potential of AI and digital marketing into a business of your own, take the first step toward building your AI-enabled agency with WSI. Explore our WSI Franchise Experience Center or Request More Information to see how you can become part of our WSI global network.