03/23/2026
I had the opportunity to host our latest Professional Alliance Group lunch this weekāand bring in a guest speaker who is truly helping businesses navigate the future of technology: Evan Carlton with Main Street AI Advisors.
As a business owner myself, Iām constantly evaluating how Iām using my timeāwhere I can be more intentional, more focused, and ultimately more effective.
Like many of us, Iāve spent years learning through experienceāespecially in paymentsāadapting to changes in technology, security, and compliance.
What really stood out in Evanās presentation wasnāt just how fast AI is evolvingā¦
but the real, measurable impact it can have on a businessās bottom line.
Here are a few key takeaways:
ā AI is no longer a ānice to haveāāitās becoming a necessity for efficiency and cost savings
ā Businesses are using AI to automate repetitive tasks and reduce labor dependency
ā Many companies are already seeing strong ROI, with 80%+ reporting positive returns
ā AI is evolving into digital āemployeesā that can handle workflowsāfreeing up teams for higher-value work
This aligns closely with what we see in the payments spaceāwhere the right technology and automation can significantly reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance the client experience.
Itās exciting to see how AI is accelerating this across every part of business.
š” Itās not just about growing revenueāitās about protecting margins, reducing expenses, and working smarter with the resources you already have.
In todayās environment, where every dollar and every hour matters⦠thatās a game changer.
Iām really excited about the work Evan is doingāand the practical way heās helping businesses actually implement AI, not just talk about it.
If youāre a business owner looking to save time, reduce costs, and improve efficiency, I highly recommend connecting with him.
š Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to a great discussion. Always grateful to be part of a group committed to learning, growing, and supporting one another.
š¬ How are you currently using AI in your businessāor where are you looking to start?