The Tradie Who Built an AI Business: Darren Waldron's Journey
Thu Jan 29 2026
In this episode of the Wisepreneurs Podcast, host Nigel Rawlins speaks with Darren Waldron, an Australian who has made a remarkable career pivot from carpenter to AI automation specialist while living in Zurich, Switzerland.
Darren shares how his personal frustrations with slow business follow-up, both as a tradesperson sending quotes and as a consumer waiting for responses, led him to develop AI-powered solutions for lead management. His company, DS Walden, specialises in two core services: database reactivation and speed to lead.
Database reactivation involves building custom AI systems trained on a business's products, services, and brand voice, then deploying them via SMS or WhatsApp to reengage leads from previous marketing campaigns. Darren explains how companies typically only convert a fraction of their leads, leaving significant untapped potential in their databases. His performance-based model means businesses only pay when meetings are generated.
Speed to lead addresses the critical gap between when someone submits their details through an ad and when a salesperson actually makes contact. Darren's systems can engage new leads within minutes, qualifying them and booking appointments automatically.
The conversation explores how Darren taught himself these technical skills despite having no coding background, combining online courses with extensive AI-assisted learning. He candidly discusses the challenges of being taken seriously as a carpenter selling technology solutions in Switzerland's highly educated business environment.
This episode offers practical insights for professionals considering how AI might transform their own businesses, along with an inspiring example of leveraging transferable skills from traditional trades into cutting-edge technology services.
Resources Mentioned:
ChatGPT (AI assistant)Gemini (Google's AI)Claude Code (Anthropic's coding assistant)Notion (note-taking and database app)DS Walden website: www.dswaldron.chLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dswaldrongmbh/ Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au
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In this episode of the Wisepreneurs Podcast, host Nigel Rawlins speaks with Darren Waldron, an Australian who has made a remarkable career pivot from carpenter to AI automation specialist while living in Zurich, Switzerland. Darren shares how his personal frustrations with slow business follow-up, both as a tradesperson sending quotes and as a consumer waiting for responses, led him to develop AI-powered solutions for lead management. His company, DS Walden, specialises in two core services: database reactivation and speed to lead. Database reactivation involves building custom AI systems trained on a business's products, services, and brand voice, then deploying them via SMS or WhatsApp to reengage leads from previous marketing campaigns. Darren explains how companies typically only convert a fraction of their leads, leaving significant untapped potential in their databases. His performance-based model means businesses only pay when meetings are generated. Speed to lead addresses the critical gap between when someone submits their details through an ad and when a salesperson actually makes contact. Darren's systems can engage new leads within minutes, qualifying them and booking appointments automatically. The conversation explores how Darren taught himself these technical skills despite having no coding background, combining online courses with extensive AI-assisted learning. He candidly discusses the challenges of being taken seriously as a carpenter selling technology solutions in Switzerland's highly educated business environment. This episode offers practical insights for professionals considering how AI might transform their own businesses, along with an inspiring example of leveraging transferable skills from traditional trades into cutting-edge technology services. Resources Mentioned: ChatGPT (AI assistant)Gemini (Google's AI)Claude Code (Anthropic's coding assistant)Notion (note-taking and database app)DS Walden website: www.dswaldron.chLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dswaldrongmbh/ Practical ideas for independent professionals building practice on their own terms. Arrives Tuesday. Subscribe free at wisepreneurs.com.au Support the show Connect with Nigel Rawlins website https://wisepreneurs.com.au/ Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelrawlins/ Twitter https://twitter.com/wisepreneurs Please support the podcast https://www.buzzsprout.com/2311675/supporters/new Stay one step ahead with The Wisepreneurs Insider newsletter As a subscriber, you'll get: Sneak peeks at upcoming must-listen podcast episodes and guests Bonus wisdom straight from recent guest experts Marketing tips to attract your ideal clients Productivity hacks to streamline your independent business And more exclusive insights are delivered right to your inbox! Don't miss out on these invaluable resources Subscribe now and gain the edge you need to survive and thrive as a wisepreneur https://wisepreneurs.com.au/newsletter