Talking AI and Business Growth with Andy Morrison

I’m at Lola’s during First Tuesdays with Up Next Charlie West. I chat with Andy Morrison, founder of Business Up AI. His company helps small and medium businesses grow by using new technology. He focuses on helping businesses use artificial intelligence to gain a competitive edge.

I ask Andy what AI really means. He explains that it’s a set of tools that allow businesses to do more with less. Right now, AI is still new enough that early adopters can benefit. But he says that won’t last. Just like websites or spreadsheets were once cutting-edge, AI will soon be common and expected.

We talk about the many ways AI shows up in business. It can write copy, make images, fill out spreadsheets, and more. I bring up how spreadsheets used to be a big deal. Andy agrees and says AI is in the same place now. He believes it’s the least developed it will ever be, and from here it only gets stronger and more available.

I ask about risks like fraud and deepfakes. Andy says those threats are real. AI can fake voices and images and make scams harder to catch. He works to help people understand these risks so they can stay aware and make smart choices. He points out that fraud is nothing new. People have always used technology for bad purposes, even the mail. AI is just the latest example.

When I ask where small businesses need help most, Andy points to customer service. He says if a business doesn’t answer questions fast—often within the first minute—people go to the next option. His company builds AI tools that respond to customers right away, helping businesses keep those leads and serve more people faster.

As we wrap up, I ask if people should ignore AI or start learning how to use it. Andy says if you see a wave of change coming, you can either get swept away or learn how to surf. He wants to help people surf. That’s how he sees his work.