Exploring Life & Business with Michael Bowers of Heed AI Consulting

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Bowers

Hi Michael, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My story didn’t start with AI; it began with a deep curiosity about how things worked. As a child, I was always fascinated by taking things apart to understand their inner workings, and then putting them back together. This curiosity was further fueled when I received a RadioShack at-home science fair project kit, which allowed me to explore 150 different projects—from building a solar-powered alarm clock to creating an AM radio. These hands-on experiences ignited my love for technology and problem-solving.

In the early 1980s, my father brought home an IBM PC, and I was immediately drawn to it. I performed my first hardware upgrade at a young age, increasing the RAM from 64K to 256K and upgrading the green monitor to an amber one. These early experiences with hardware upgrades sparked my passion for computers and set me on a path toward a career in technology.

At 21, I started my first business, My PC Man, offering basic computer repair, virus removal, and hardware upgrades. I ran that business for several years before taking my first corporate job in IT. I progressed from a help desk technician to a Director of IT, but after 9/11 in 2001, I felt compelled to return to my entrepreneurial roots. I launched an IT consulting business, which I successfully ran for 20 years, helping businesses with their IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and business solutions.

In 2021, I began exploring the world of AI and quickly recognized its potential to transform industries. I transitioned into AI consulting, applying my 20 years of IT experience to help businesses not just adopt AI but optimize and scale their processes through AI-driven solutions. Over the past two years, I’ve focused entirely on AI consulting—developing custom solutions, building large language models, and helping clients leverage AI for greater efficiency and growth. Since January 2023, I’ve been fully immersed in AI, leaving the IT and cybersecurity space behind to focus entirely on the future of AI.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Was it an Easy or Tough Road?
For me, it was easy to become fascinated with technology. Working with computers and developing solutions has always come naturally, and one of my strongest skills has been explaining complex technologies in a way that non-technical people can easily understand. Throughout my career, I’ve enjoyed breaking down these intricate ideas and seeing that “aha” moment when someone grasps the concept.

However, the road has become more challenging in the last couple of years as I’ve shifted into AI consulting. One of the biggest hurdles has been overcoming the stereotypes and fears associated with AI. Many people tend to associate AI with dystopian scenarios—like those from Terminator—or view it solely as a job killer. The challenge for me has been helping people move beyond these fears to understand how AI can enhance their jobs, businesses, and lives.

The key has been educating people, breaking down misconceptions, and demonstrating how AI can be applied to solve real problems and improve outcomes. It’s about getting people to look past what they don’t know and helping them adopt new tools and perspectives that will ultimately make their work and lives better.

As you know, we’re big fans of Heed AI Consulting. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
What Am I Proud Of, and What Makes Us Stand Out as a Company?

One of the things I’m most proud of is our holistic approach to AI consulting, which brings cybersecurity and cyber risk management into the equation from the start. Having worked in cybersecurity for the past 20 to 30 years, both personally and professionally, I understand the importance of protecting digital assets while embracing innovation. This focus on security sets us apart, ensuring that our clients not only implement cutting-edge AI solutions but do so with a strong foundation in cyber risk management.

What makes Heed AI Consulting stand out is my ability to bridge the gap between what clients don’t understand and what they want to achieve. Whether it’s addressing pain points or finding the right AI solution, I have a unique skill set that combines over 25 years of experience in business development, marketing, IT, and consulting across a wide range of industries. I can explain complex solutions in a way that makes sense, help clients implement them, and ensure long-term success.

This diverse background—combined with a personal, hands-on approach—differentiates Heed AI from larger consulting firms and those who focus solely on AI. Our ability to connect with professionals from all backgrounds, understand their needs, and offer experienced, personalized solutions is what drives real results. Whether we’re working with IT systems, networks, or AI tools like large language models and chatbots, we focus on providing the right solutions with a touch of personalization and professionalism that leads to sustained success for our clients.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Lessons Learned
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the value of continuous education. Technology is always evolving, and it’s critical to challenge what I know with what I can still learn. I’ve realized that being comfortable with the knowledge I’ve gained is not an option in a field that’s constantly changing. That curiosity to always look for a better way to do something has shaped my approach—whether it’s improving a current process or finding an entirely new solution.

This mindset of always pushing myself to learn and grow has been invaluable, especially in AI consulting. When faced with client challenges, my ability to continuously seek out new approaches, refine existing processes, and integrate evolving technologies has allowed me to deliver better, more effective solutions.

Pricing:

• $325 per hour consulting rate
• Half day consultation $1,200
• Full day consultations $2,200

Contact Info:

• Website: heedconsulting.ai
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heedaiconsulting
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeedAIConsulting

Image Credits
Photos by Jay Rivera and Hal Bergman and Rafael Hernandez