The Catalyst by Softchoice

The rise of AI isn't just about smarter machines—it's about reshaping the way we work, create, and innovate. In the season finale of The Catalyst by Softchoice, Heather Haskin sits down with Gil Press, senior contributor at Forbes, to trace the modern history of AI. From the early breakthroughs in deep learning to the rise of generative AI, Press explores the key moments that shaped the AI industry and where the technology is headed next. Featuring: Gil Press, Senior Contributor at Forbes The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

The future of tech isn't just about speed and innovation—it's about who gets a seat at the table. In this episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice, Rachel Skaff, AWS Managing Director of America's Channel and Partner Sales, joins Heather Haskin to explore how Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are driving innovation in tech.  From her unconventional path into the industry to leading DEI initiatives at Amazon, Skaff shares insights on fostering inclusivity and ensuring AI development remains fair and unbiased.  This episode is brought to you by AWS. Transform your document workflows with AWS Document AI Services. Visit softchoice.com/awsai today!  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

The future of business is a conversation. In this episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice, Heather Haskin and Craig McQueen, Vice President of AI Solutions at Softchoice, dive into how conversational AI is reshaping industries and redefining success.  From smarter customer support to groundbreaking innovations, discover why this technology is more than just talk—it's a game-changer. With real-world examples and insights into overcoming challenges, this episode is your ultimate guide to navigating the AI revolution.  Featuring: Craig McQueen, Softchoice Vice President of AI Solutions The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

What if your company could leverage AI to not only increase productivity but also improve your mental well-being? What if the secret to transforming your workplace culture and achieving extraordinary results lay in the smallest, most intentional changes? In this episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice, host Heather Haskin sits down with 1-Degree/Shift founders Suchitra Davies-Webb and Nick Foster to explore how small, intentional shifts in leadership can drive transformative change in workplace culture.  From fostering conscious accountability to utilizing innovative AI tools, discover how their unique approach helps organizations achieve inclusivity, well-being, and high performance. Listen in to learn how small changes can lead to extraordinary results. Featuring: 1-Degree/Shift co-founders Suchitra Davies-Webb and Nick Foster The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

A lot of charities are just trying to keep the lights on. They don't have resources for tech infrastructure and training. That's where Softchoice's Charity Accelerator Program comes in.  In this episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice, host Heather Haskin dives into the transformative power of technology for small charities with Joseph Byer and Jill Crowley, co-chairs of Softchoice's Charity Accelerator Program (CAP). Discover how this groundbreaking initiative helps nonprofits overcome technological challenges, from outdated systems to limited budgets, by offering tailored support and mentorship. Featuring: Jill Crowley and Joseph Byer, co-chairs of Softchoice's Charity Accelerator Program The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

What if your company could leverage AI to not only increase productivity but also improve your mental well-being? In this episode of The Catalyst, Heather Haskin speaks with Anna Baird, Chief Customer Officer for Generative AI Go-to-Market at Google, about the crucial human element in AI implementation.  They discuss how to leverage AI to enhance, not undermine, the employee experience, fostering psychological safety and well-being. Learn how to navigate the challenges of AI integration while prioritizing employee empowerment and creating a more supportive work environment.  This episode is brought to you by Google Cloud. Simplify document processing with Google Cloud's Document AI, capturing 99 percent of data from any format. Visit softchoice.com to get started. Featuring: Anna Baird, Chief Customer Officer for Generative AI Go-to-Market at Google The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

It's one thing to hear about the speeds and feeds of a technology – and quite another to get a real human voice, to shine a light on the real value these tools can offer us. In this episode, host Heather Haskin delves into the practical applications of Microsoft Copilot with Cole Pascua, Senior Microsoft Modern Work Specialist at SoftChoice.  Cole provides a firsthand account of Softchoice's Copilot journey, sharing both their successes and challenges in implementing and integrating this transformative AI tool. He discusses how Copilot has impacted workflows, boosted creativity, empowered decision-making, and streamlined operations. This episode is brought to you by Microsoft. Unlock the potential of Copilot for Microsoft 365 and transform your operations with a Copilot Readiness Assessment from Softchoice.  Visit softchoice.com/copilot to learn more. Featuring: Cole Pasqua, Senior Microsoft Modern Work Specialist, SoftChoice The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

Quantum computing promises to be one of the most disruptive technologies of our time. But it also brings the risk of unparalleled cybersecurity threats. In this episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice, we delve into the world of quantum computing and its implications for cybersecurity. Dr. Vito Nozza, Principal of Security at Softchoice Design Studio and a PhD in cybersecurity, joins us to discuss the exciting potential of quantum computing while highlighting the significant cybersecurity risks it presents. We explore practical steps to enhance data protection strategies and address the potential risks associated with emerging technologies like quantum computing and AI. Learn how to proactively safeguard your organization's data in the face of these threats. Featuring: Dr. Vito Nozza, Principal of Security at Softchoice Design Studio The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

In this special episode, host Heather Haskin dives deep into the world of AI-driven digital transformation with Rekha Narang, Director of Partner Technology at Microsoft. Rekha provides an inside look at the evolution of Microsoft Copilot, a tool that has transformed how organizations work, collaborate, and deliver results. They explore Copilot's journey from its launch in November 2023 to its game-changing impact today, as well as the crucial role diversity, inclusion, and partnerships have played in this transformation. Rekha also shares personal leadership insights and looks ahead at what's next for Copilot. Tune in to learn more about how Microsoft Copilot is reshaping industries, empowering teams, and redefining the future of work. This episode is brought to you by Microsoft. Unlock the potential of Copilot for Microsoft 365 and see how it can transform your operations with a Copilot Readiness Assessment from Softchoice. Visit softchoice.com/copilot to learn more.  Featuring: Rekha Narang, Director, Partner Technology Microsoft The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

Is your business ready for the end of Windows 10, or are you risking being left behind in the next wave of digital transformation?  In this episode, host Aaron Brooks is joined by industry experts Cameron Allen from Intel, Kirk Sinclair from Microsoft, and Bryan Rusche from Softchoice for a roundtable discussion on now to navigate the shift to Windows 11. The panel delves into the strategic importance of upgrading, addressing security, hardware readiness, and the impact of AI. They explore the challenges and opportunities businesses face during this transition, providing actionable advice for IT leaders on how to build a smooth migration strategy and future-proof their IT infrastructure. Featuring: Cameron Allen, Partner Account Manager at Intel Canada, Kirk Sinclair, Partner Account Manager at Microsoft and Bryan Rusche, GTM Product Manager at Softchoice  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. 

In this episode, co-hosts Aaron Brooks and Heather Haskin take a break from the constant buzz around generative AI and ChatGPT to explore what else is shaping the future of IT. From cybersecurity threats in the age of quantum computing to the rising expectation for businesses to become content creators, this mid-season check-in dives into the trends and insights flying under the AI radar. Don't miss this candid conversation that uncovers some of the key issues transforming the tech world in 2024—beyond AI. Featuring: Aaron Brooks, VP Customer Strategy and Solution Sales at Softchoice and Heather Haskin, Business Development Manager AWS at Softchoice The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. 

What's it like being at the helm of a security operation that safeguards thousands of businesses worldwide, with new cyber threats emerging every single day? In this episode, host Heather Haskin meets with Raja Patel, Chief Product Officer at Sophos, to uncover the strategies that keep one of the world's leading cybersecurity companies ahead in an ever-evolving digital landscape. As cyber threats become more sophisticated and relentless, Patel shares his unique approach to building resilient security solutions that not only anticipate future challenges but also empower teams to think creatively and collaboratively. Discover how Sophos is pushing the boundaries of cybersecurity by blending innovation, strategic foresight, and a people-first mindset to protect organizations worldwide. Featuring: Raja Patel, Chief Product Officer, Sophos The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. 

What if the key to becoming a more dynamic and effective leader lies not in boardrooms or business school – but on the improv stage? In this episode, host Aaron Brooks and guest Stephanie Malek, Corporate Director and Production Manager at Bad Dog Theatre, delve into how the unexpected world of improvisation holds transformative lessons for business and IT leaders. Tune in to learn how to bring the spontaneity and creativity of improv into your leadership style, helping you navigate the complexities of today's business landscape with greater confidence and agility. Featuring: Stephanie Malek, Corporate Director and Production Manager at Bad Dog Theatre The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. 

Can a leader effectively inspire and drive success without being physically present? As tech giants like Google, Amazon, Meta, and Apple mandate a return to the office, this question is top of mind. In this episode, host Heather Haskin interviews Angela Cope, the Director of Demand Generation at Softchoice, about her life as a remote leader amidst this wave of return-to-office mandates. From her home in rural Nova Scotia, Angela shares her unique perspective on leading from afar. Discover her daily routine, the key challenges and advantages of remote leadership, and what it takes to successfully manage a team from a distance in an ever-evolving work landscape. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the future of remote work and effective leadership strategies. Featuring: Angela Cope, Director of Demand Generation at Softchoice  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. 

In this special bonus episode of The Catalyst, host Heather Haskin welcomes Greg McDonald, Senior Solutions Architect at Softchoice, to discuss the recent CrowdStrike outage that disrupted businesses globally. They focus on actionable steps business leaders and IT professionals can take to enhance their resilience against future incidents.What You'll Learn:Immediate steps businesses should take in response to the outageKey prevention strategies to avoid similar disruptionsThe benefits of having a managed service provider for rapid support and recoveryStay informed and proactive by tuning in to this insightful episode.Featuring: Greg McDonald, Senior Solutions Architect at SoftchoiceThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

Across organizations, every team is driven by the desire to innovate and perform, adopting its own set of SaaS tools to help drive growth. But without a centralized strategy, suddenly you're faced with mounting costs, redundant software, and security vulnerabilities. On today's episode, co-host Aaron Brooks meets with John Harden, Director of Product SaaS Management at Auvik, and Raksha Matthias, Director of Software Asset Management Strategy at Softchoice to unravel the complexities of SaaS sprawl, offering practical solutions and strategies for businesses leaders to regain control and drive efficient, secure, and innovative software usage. Featuring: John Harden, Director of Product – SaaS Management at Auvik and Raksha Matthias, Director, Software Asset Management Strategy at Softchoice The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.  This episode is brought to you by Softchoice SAM+ To learn more, visit softchoice.com. 

Brian Stevens is the CEO of Neural Magic and former CTO of Google Cloud.In this episode, Heather speaks to Brian about intersection of AI, open source, and ethical responsibility. Brian shares his insights on the vital role of open source models in fostering transparency, the challenges of navigating AI's ethical landscape, and the future of responsible development. He discusses why the democratization of AI should be important for business leaders and how to get started with large language models at enterprises of all sizes.  Featuring: Brian Stevens, CEO of Neural Magic and former CTO of Google Cloud.  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. This episode is brought to you by Google Cloud. To learn more, visit softchoice.com/google 

What if your team's full potential lay in the hands of an AI assistant that could learn from you, adapt to your needs, and streamline your daily operations? How do you sustain momentum through initial adoption to ongoing optimization? This concern is the focus of the final episode of this miniseries, where we host Kayla Thorpe, Senior Manager for Workplace AI Consulting, and host Braeden Banks delve into the crucial final stages of Softchoice's Microsoft Copilot adoption journey: 'Adopt & Sustain.' Kayla shares her experience and practical tips on how to engage teams, overcome obstacles, and foster a culture that not only embraces but thrives on innovative technology.  Featuring: Kayla Thorpe, Senior Manager for Workplace AI Consulting at Softchoice  

How do you integrate something like Microsoft 365 Copilot into the everyday workflow of your organization without making a mess of it? That's the question that drives the third episode in this miniseries, which focuses on the 'Implement' phase of the Copilot Adoption Journey with guest Craig McQueen, Vice President of AI Solutions at Softchoice. Craig shares his expertise on how to introduce Microsoft 365 Copilot in your organization, starting with a single group, tailoring the experience, and validating its value before scaling further. The conversation reveals how a gradual, careful implementation can lead to profound organizational transformation and set the stage for broader adoption. Featuring: Craig McQueen, Vice President of AI Solutions at Softchoice

The biggest architectural change to the humble chipset is underway. Its aim: deliver artificial intelligence to the PC. Host Aaron Brooks meets with Cameron Allen, partner account manager at Intel Canada, to get the details. We'll hear about all the reasons Intel is taking this quantum leap toward portable AI, herald the arrival of neural processing units (NPUs), and discuss what all this means for technology and business leaders.Hear Cameron explain the concepts behind NPUs are and how they direct the CPU and GPU for optimization, performance and security gains. With GPU scarcity hindering AI innovation, he articulates the need for an open, sustainable supply chain. He also dives into customer outcomes and use cases, including all the ways NPUs can support AI democratization.  Don't miss this fascinating glimpse into the next evolution of the PC. Featuring: Cameron Allen, Partner Account Manager at Intel CanadaThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.This episode is brought to you by Intel. Deliver all the AI results you need, everywhere you need them, with Intel and Softchoice, together. Contact a Softchoice representative today to learn about Intel's comprehensive AI solutions, and how we can unlock them for you. Or get started here: https://www.softchoice.com/technology-partners/intel

'Look before you leap' is often the difference between success and failure when it comes to adopting a new technology.  When it comes to Copilot for Microsoft 365, the importance of assessing your organizational readiness before you implement can't be overstated.On this episode of this miniseries on The Catalyst podcast, step into the 'Assess' phase of the Copilot Adoption Journey with Matt Vasil, Director of Emerging Technology at Softchoice. We get into the essential preparations for implementing Copilot for Microsoft 365, from measuring the potential licensing impacts to minding security gaps to answering the question, “Are our people truly ready?” Matt offers key insights into how to evaluate your environment to make sure your Copilot adoption stays on course and ultimately sticks the landing. Featuring: Matt Vasil, Director of Emerging Technology at Softchoice

Businesses everywhere taking a good, hard look at Copilot for Microsoft 365 are all wondering the same thing: is it really worth the hype? That's what we're here to find out.On the inaugural episode of this brand-new miniseries courtesy of The Catalyst by Softchoice, host Braeden Banks and guest Jaime Waterfield, Director of Microsoft Category at Softchoice, explore the crucial beginnings of building a Copilot business case for Microsoft 365. Discover the best practices and potential pitfalls in planning your strategy and learn how to effectively generate buy-in and set the stage for success. Tune in to start your journey with a solid plan and get inspired to transform your business's digital landscape.Featuring: Jaime Waterfield, Director of Microsoft Category at Softchoice See how we can help you unleash the potential of your people and technology with Copilot: softchoice.com/microsoft-copilot 

What lessons from elite athletic coaching can empower today's business leaders? With the summer Olympics just around the corner, we asked Pete Steinberg, leadership consultant and celebrated rugby coach, that very question.He discusses how feedback is the fuel of high performance, in sports and business. Like a rugby coach leading from the stands, the further up the leadership ladder, the less control you have. That's why Steinberg provides strategies for empowering your employees to manage strategic decisions and conflict.We also delve into his new book, Leadership Shock, which addresses navigating new and fundamentally different leadership challenges using his Authentic Leadership Model.He discusses finding purpose as a leader, understanding self-identity, and building a culture of experimentation.Featuring: Pete Steinberg, President of Innovative Thought and author of Leadership Shock. Find out more about Pete and his book here: Innovative Thought - Peter Steinberg BookThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

How will Adobe's foray into Generative AI impact how your team creates and collaborates? That's what we wanted to find out. On the latest episode of The Catalyst Podcast, co-host Heather Haskin sits down with Adobe's Principal Product Marketing Manager, Lori DeFurio, to explore the transformative role of AI within Adobe's ecosystem to empower human productivity. DeFurio provides valuable insights on how business leaders can strategically adopt generative AI while upholding ethical standards and fostering an environment of innovation.  Featuring: Lori DeFurio, Principal Product Marketing Manager at Adobe The Catalyst by Softchoice is a podcast about unleashing the full potential in people and technology. 

Season 6 of The Catalyst by Softchoice kicks off with an episode that questions conventional wisdom about IT leadership. Aaron Brooks sits down with Eric Champagne, CIO of La Vie en Rose, to hear how Eric is flipping the script. Eric's story is all about bridging a longstanding gap between IT and end-users, with the goal of making technology a tool for empowerment and efficiency.Gone are the days of tech gatekeeping. Eric champions a philosophy where technology aligns seamlessly with business goals and, more crucially, the people it serves. His approach? Ditching the tech jargon for a language of collaboration and understanding, making him a leader in creating a more inclusive, user-focused IT culture.Featuring: Eric Champagne, CIO, La Vie En RoseThe Catalyst by Softchoice is a podcast about unleashing the full potential in people and technology.

This season on The Catalyst, a podcast about unleashing the full potential in people and technology, co-hosts Aaron Brooks and Heather Haskin explore the transformative power of tech, not just within businesses, but also through the personal journeys of those at the forefront of change. Every episode is packed with stories of triumph and the valuable lessons learned from the setbacks along the way. Tune in bi-weekly and discover why the most important conversations surrounding people in tech are happening right here.Learn more: softchoice.com/podcast

Imagine everyone with a great business idea could make it happen without a deep engineering bench or tens of millions of dollars in funding. How would that change competition in an already hypercompetitive marketplace? How do the principles of responsible AI show up when AI is accessible to everyone? What responsibility do enterprise firms have to help shape a world where this technology benefits all of us?On this episode of The Catalyst, host Aaron Brooks meets with  Robert Daigle, Director of Global AI Business at Lenovo, to unpack these and other issues surrounding the fast-moving democratization of generative AI. Robert explains the 5 AI transformation imperatives that guide Lenovo's responsible AI committee along with the need for enterprise leaders to work with governments to balance real innovation with responsible AI policy. Resources mentioned:●      Responsible AI: From Managing Risk to Driving Business Value●      Responsible AI will give you a competitive advantageFeaturing: Robert Daigle, Director, Global AI Business, Lenovo  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. This episode is brought to you by Lenovo. From the pocket to the cloud, Lenovo is bringing AI to your business, so you can grow and innovate. Contact a Softchoice Sales Specialist or visit lenovo.com/ai to learn more.

Robotic exoskeletons have gotten a whole lot better.No longer just for rehabilitation, manufacturer German Bionic is applying active exoskeleton devices to support workers in a number of ways. These wearable robotic devices work in tandem with the user, allowing them to handle a wider range of physical tasks. The result: physically-demanding jobs are now open to a wider range of candidates.Meghan Kennelly is Head of Global Marketing at German Bionic and our guest on The Catalyst. Their active exoskeletons use motors and battery power to help with lifting, supporting the lower back and giving walking assistance. Sensors collect data to track movements, lifts, posture, and more. German Bionic has seen traction in US manufacturing sector and recently launched a healthcare exoskeleton for lifting and moving patients. Kennelly outlines the perhaps surprising ROI on active exoskeletons, including in reduced sick days and injury claims, better insight into ergonomics and higher production output. These devices can also help address the ongoing labor shortage.  Featuring: Meghan Kennelly, Head of Global Marketing, German BionicThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. 

Is a cybersecurity utopia – where no CISO lies awake at night worrying about threats known and unknown – even possible? If you believe “yes,” how do you get others to share that vision? That's what we discussed with Lou Senko, Chief Availability Officer at global banking technology company Q2 on this episode of The Catalyst. First and foremost, Senko doesn't believe in leading with the fear factor. Fear, he says, only frees up some of the wallet.   He talks with host Cheryl Stookes about his strategies for improving security posture and justifying security budgets, whether you're a small business or a major enterprise. He also outlines his personal approach to getting the most  value from security investments. And, with the security talent shortage showing no signs of abating, he shares his experience recruiting against giants Tesla, Oracle and Dell in the fast-growing tech hub of Austin, Texas.    Cheryl also signs off as co-host of The Catalyst, as she takes on a new and opportunity outside Softchoice. Thank you, Cheryl. We wish you all the best with your latest chapter!   Featuring: Lou Senko, Chief Availability Officer at Q2  Resources: Read Lou Senko's white paper Demystifying Zero Trust and learn about Q2's community initiative Spark.   The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.  

As a CISO, how do you know when you're getting through to the board and the C-suite?  One way is to look at the quality of the questions they ask you.  Are they learning?  This is just one of the questions Kevin Magee fields a lot during “CISO therapy,” a discipline he finds himself practicing more often as Chief Security Officer at Microsoft Canada. Aside from the technology components, the thing his “clients” want to talk about most is how to build, sustain and grow those all-important executive relationships. To conclude National Cybersecurity Awareness Month on the Catalyst, host Cheryl Stookes chats with Kevin about how CISOs can break through with boards and leadership.  He also dives into the cybersecurity skills shortage, which he names a symptom of too narrow an approach to finding candidates. Instead, he says, those seeking cybersecurity talent should look beyond the relatively small pool of technologists and consider backgrounds in psychology, criminology and law enforcement – that is, people who understand how cybercriminals think, behave and operate.  Universities and other training institutions have a part to play here, too. He discusses “reverse mentoring relationships” with younger members on the team. After all, the security leader's job is not to be the best technical problem-solver, but to define the problem and empower others to solve it.  Featuring: Kevin Magee, Chief Security Officer, Microsoft Canada The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. This episode is brought to you by Microsoft's Workplace Security Solutions. See how Softchoice can help you get started with Zero Trust and fill every gap in your security infrastructure with Microsoft. Reach out to a Softchoice Solutions Specialist or visit softchoice.com/microsoft-zerotrust to learn about our custom workshops and services. 

 Is it time to pick a cybersecurity safeword? Mike Storm, Cisco Cybersecurity Distinguished Engineer and our guest on The Catalyst, thinks so. With over 30 years of cybersecurity experience, even he finds himself challenged by new AI-powered scams. Why?  The short answer: At the heart of it, humans are an easier target than computers and software, because human psychology and behaviour have been known quantities for millennia, he says.  Attackers prey on behavior wired into us by exploiting things like the “click principle,” the unconscious reflex that drives us to click on links, buttons and other shiny digital objects without a second thought.  With AI at their disposal and uninhibited by ethical, legal or regulatory concerns, these bad actors are already able to contextualize these attacks in ways that become more intimate and convincing all the time. How can “the good guys” respond?   Storm and host Aaron Brooks talk about how, in this world, everything from devices, applications, links, and infrastructure and trust is based on identity. Distributed identities will become more of an object you own, says Storm. He also sheds some light on the next phase of cybersecurity's evolution and provides his tips for making yourself “un-hackable.”    Featuring: Mike Storm, Cybersecurity Distinguished Engineer at Cisco The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.  This episode of The Catalyst is brought to you by Cisco Security Solutions. Defend against threats and safeguard the most vital aspects of your business. Reach out to a Cisco expert at Softchoice to learn more or visit softchoice.com/cisco-security-solutions.   

It's official: generative AI has permeated the culture, appearing in conversations at work, around the dinner table and yes, even over drinks with friends. With 2024 on the horizon and technology budgets due to reset, C-suite leaders and boards are talking about it, too.  So how do you take this hot topic from casual chat to enterprise strategy?   This week, Craig McQueen, VP of Digital Acceleration at Softchoice, joins hosts Cheryl and Aaron on location at their favorite watering hole to discuss why now is the time to act on GenAI implementation – and, more importantly, how to go about it.  The discussion uncovered 3 steps for adopting large language models (LLMs) in a business context. First, find your use case – a hypothesis for proving whether GenAI will solve your business problem. Next, determine the data needed and do a full security review. Then, start testing, iterating and seeking out those internal enthusiasts to help lead the change. Featuring: Craig McQueen, Vice President of Digital Acceleration, Softchoice The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. Want to unlock the power of Gen AI in your business? See how Softchoice's Catalyst Generative AI Workshop can help: Softchoice.com/GenAI. 

Will your next new colleague be a machine? It's no longer so far-fetched. Natural language interfaces will soon replace software UIs we're used to with good old fashioned conversation.  That's according to Doug Smith, GM of Solutions for Microsoft Canada.  This week on The Catalyst, he provides insights into the rapid adoption of GenAI, the hype around it, and why it matters to your business today more than ever.  GenAI tools, such as Microsoft 365 Copilot, are going to make significant changes to the ways we do our jobs, augmenting human capabilities and boosting productivity. Smith walks us through Microsoft's view on pressing concerns about AI, from its impact on jobs to ethical ethical considerations, while reinforcing the importance of a responsible approach to AI. He also outlines his advice for leaders and boards on educating themselves and adopting GenAI into their organizations with a focus on empowering everyone involved. Featuring: Doug Smith, General Manager of Solutions for Microsoft CanadaThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. This episode of The Catalyst is brought to you by Microsoft Copilot.Want to explore the possibilities of GenAI in your business?Contact Softchoice today or visit Softchoice.com/genai to learn about our Genitive AI Catalyst Workshop and start harnessing the power of AI securely. 

The best sci-fi stories explore the question, “What exactly does it mean to be human in the face of evolving technology?”As we dive headfirst into the era of generative AI, this philosophical question has taken on a new, more practical dimension. As GenAI begins to upend the ways we work, live and do business, where do humans fit in? How will it change the ways we think about ourselves? In this episode, host Aaron Brooks explores the influences of AI on the evolution of human society with Prof. Alexander Manu of OCAD University and Mario Bourgoin, AI Specialist at AWS. The discussion ranges from the intersection of AI with art, creativity and more with practical advice as to how we ordinary humans can get ready for the changes to come. Featuring: Prof. Alexander Manu, acclaimed author and philosopher and Mario Bourgoin, AI Specialist from Amazon Web ServicesThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining light on the human side of technology.Support our sponsor: This episode was sponsored by AWS and Softchoice's Lift and Shift cloud migration solution. Take full advantage of the cloud– and leave no opportunity untapped – with our seamless, guided services. Visit softchoice.com/awsmigration to get started today. See the images: Watch this conversation in video and see Prof. Manu's AI-generate images on the blog: softchoice.com/blogsBooks referenced in the episode:Mechanization Takes Command by Siegfried Giedion Technics and Civilization by Lewis Mumford  The Philosophy of Disruption by Alexander Manu

“Upskill or fall behind.” That's the message to millions of workers facing sweeping changes in technology and a generous helping of economic uncertainty. Okay, but upskill in what, exactly?  In this episode, host Cheryl Stookes meets with Kian Katanforoosh, the CEO and Co-founder of Workera. This California company's platform uses AI to produce accurate and unbiased skills assessments. From there, it matches workers with the right training plans and materials to meet personal career goals, close organizational skills gaps and get more out of investments in training content.  Cheryl and Kian also explore what big advances in automation may mean for workers, what it will take to find staying power in the future and where AI can help rather than hurt. Kian also shares his thoughts on the continuing importance of mentorship and the need for leaders to be proactive in finding skills gaps to stay ready for change.  Featuring: Kian Katanforoosh, CEO and Co-founder of Workera The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology.  

Did you always want to do what you do? Or did your grades and test scores suggest you'd be good at it? The 2020s are quickly being characterized by astonishing leaps in technology. Meanwhile, our education systems have remained anchored in 19th-century thinking. Rooted in standardized, one-size-fits-all models, the way we engage, develop and measure success for students is about to undergo a profound change thanks to, you guessed it, artificial intelligence. In this episode of The Catalyst, our host Aaron meets with Dr. David Vroonland, the executive director of LEARN, the Learning Environments Action Resource Network, and a consultant to the education sector with Softchoice. They explore a new approach to education that uses AI models to create personalized, self-guided learning paths for students, tailored to their demonstrated passions and interests, rather than aptitude alone.  Dr. Vroonland believes it's poised to reshape the way we teach and learn for good.  Featuring: Dr. David Vroonland, Executive Director of LEARN and a consultant with Softchoice. The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology.  

Our data is in danger.  It's in danger from cybercriminals and malicious state actors. It's in danger from more frequent and devastating natural disasters. It's in danger from gaps and oversights in security posture. It's in danger from people inside our organizations, whether they mean well or otherwise.  It takes heroic efforts from IT teams to prevent the worst outcomes. But who are the people making a difference behind the scenes? How do we find more of them?  This week on The Catalyst, Cheryl meets Terence Gleeson, Senior Director of VMware Cloud on AWS. The topic: the smart, talented (and hard-to-find) people who protect our data when and where it matters most. Gleeson shares some inspiring examples, including that of the IT team at one of Ukraine's largest retailers, who established data recovery capabilities in the middle of a war. He also lets us in on his advice for finding your IT heroes, the right way to recover from ransomware and how AI is adding new stakes to the cybersecurity conversation.  Featuring: Terence Gleeson, Senior Director of VMware Cloud on AWS  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology. This episode of The Catalyst is brought to you by VMware Cloud. Contact Softchoice and discover how VMware Cloud and Softchoice can be your partners in creating a seamless any cloud experience. Visit softchoice.com/vmc to get started today.  

Have you ever wondered how the products you use make their way across the world to reach you? The answer is industry ecosystems, intricate webs of people, processes and technology that connect our world and economy behind the scenes. In this episode of The Catalyst, we unravel the concept of industry ecosystems with guest John Comacchio, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Teknion, a future-focused office furniture manufacturer. From new supply chain hurdles to sustainability imperatives and changing definitions of “the workplace,” we explore how Teknion has rethought its approach. Get a deeper look into the hidden machinery behind the global economy and the extraordinary minds moving it forward. Featuring: John Comacchio, Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Teknion The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of technology. 

The global semiconductor shortage, triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, set off a cascading set of challenges. The resulting disruption made it harder than ever to get electronic components and products to where they were needed, leaving consumers, businesses and other organizations in the lurch. Compounding the issue: heavy reliance on semiconductor production in Asia, mainly Taiwan. As uncertainty continues to define the 2020s and geopolitical tensions rise, how can we apply what we've learned to prevent another crisis? In this episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice, host Cheryl Stookes joins Phil Vokins, Director of Channels, ISVs and Cloud at Intel. Drawing on his deep experience in the semiconductor industry, Vokins dives deep into the coordinated efforts, strategic investments and sustainable approaches by business and government to address the recent shortage and gird against future disruptions.Featuring: Phil Vokins, Director of Channels, ISVs and Cloud at IntelThe Catalyst is the podcast shining a light on the human side of technology.This episode was brought to you by the Intel vPro platform, delivering unmatched performance and comprehensive security right to your fingertips. See how Softchoice can help you unlock the full potential of your hybrid workspace with Intel vPro today.

Decarbonizing our energy grid will take a lot more than adopting alternative power sources. That's the founding principle behind Recurve, a company on a mission to speed the transition to a carbon-free economy, while making the already fragile energy grid more reliable. Aaron meets with Recurve CEO Matt Golden to discuss why decarbonizing the grid calls for a new approach to flexible demand, through what Recurve calls “virtual power plants.”The discussion highlights the importance of demand-side flexibility and load balancing, the complexities of modernizing a grid, and how Google Cloud is making Recurve's mission possible.Golden is a recognized thought leader in the energy efficiency industry. Whether testifying before Congress or auditing Ellen DeGeneres' house, Matt has been spreading the word about energy efficiency for years. An entrepreneur, policy advocate and efficiency agitator, Matt is committed to bringing demand flexibility in the built environment to scale as a grid and climate resource. He has made presentations on emerging demand flexibility markets to the US Senate, at COP 21 and to the UK Parliament.Featuring: Matt Golden, Founder and CEO of RecurveThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of technology. This episode is brought to you by Google Cloud.Speak to Softchoice today to see how we can help you use Google cloud to break down silos, unlock new insights and power innovation.

You've heard of AI applications for all kinds of things, from virtual assistants to super-powered medical research and even voice analysis. But AI-powered window washing? In this episode, Cheryl Stookes meets with Michael Brown, chairman and CEO of Skyline Robotics – the company behind the world's first ever robotic-armed window cleaner.Cheryl and Michael discuss the technology behind OZMO and how it combines lidar and artificial intelligence to transform the window cleaning industry. They also dive into the potential for AI and automation to affect labor markets and change the game around workplace safety within the 3 ‘Ds' – dirty, dull and dangerous – jobs.Michael also shares insights on the importance of responsible and ethical development of AI technologies and the company's role in shaping the future of the building maintenance industry.Featuring: Michael Brown, Chairman and CEO of Skyline Robotics.The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of technology.

Leveling up your day-to-day operations may not sound like the most exciting innovation project but let them slip and you've lost your customer, possibly for good. In this episode, co-host Aaron Brooks meets with Tommy Yionoulis, CEO and co-founder of OpsAnalitica, an operations management platform designed to help businesses be more efficient (and profitable) through process accountability and data. Tommy believes the biggest innovation opportunity for businesses isn't about the shiniest new tech. It's about efficiency, consistency and “the mighty check list.” He goes on to share what he sees shaping the future of work and how the winners will triumph through better, more consistent daily operations.Featuring: Tommy Yionoulis, CEO and co-founder of OpsAnaliticaThe Catalyst by Softchoice is a podcast dedicated to exploring the intersection of humans and technology.

Recessions make business growth challenging – but not impossible. On this episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice, Jason Brommet, Head of Modern Work and Security at Microsoft, returns to the podcast to lay out 3 strategies to help businesses thrive during an economic downturn. From engaging people to closing skills gaps and making things simpler using new AI tools, learn what you need to succeed at doing more with less. Together Cheryl and Jason compare today's situation with the Great Recession of 2008, debate whether the pandemic gave technology leaders a head start, and look into the potential of AI tools, including Microsoft 365 Copilot.  Featuring:Jason Brommet, Head of Modern Work and Security for Microsoft North America.  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of technology.   This episode of The Catalyst by Softchoice is sponsored by Microsoft 365. See how Softchoice and Microsoft, together, can help your business Do More With Less: https://www.softchoice.com/m365

With Earth Day 2023 just around the corner, new co-host Cheryl Stookes meets with Anureet Kaur, Softchoice's Sustainability Manager. They discuss what goes into creating an effective ESG strategy – one that aligns environmental and social impact with your business' bottom line. They also delve into the challenges of reporting on ESG initiatives, a relatively new set of obstacles that many businesses are now facing in today's economic climate. Anureet is a Toronto-based sustainability professional, climate policy researcher, public speaker and college professor. Since 2019, Anureet has been a Professor at Seneca College's Sustainable Business Management Program, where she teaches responsible leadership, social impact and climate justice. She continues to advocate for Canada's equitable, low-carbon economy and the inclusion of Indigenous voices in climate and energy strategy as a path to true reconciliation.Featuring: Anureet Kaur, Sustainability Manager at SoftchoiceSpecial thanks to Angela Cope, Areej Shah, Cheryl Castator and Magdalena Dabbour for sharing their personal insights on living more sustainably. The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of technology. 

Welcome to Season 5 of The Catalyst.In this episode, new co-host Aaron Brooks meets with Sean Austin, CEO and co-founder of Helios, a company pioneering the new field of speech analytics through a voice tone intelligence technology. Helios' groundbreaking “tonal analysis” application can identify changes in tone, pitch and other vocal characteristics that indicate the speaker's emotional state, attitude and even their level of confidence. While today Helios is marketing itself to Wall Street, its potential use cases are endless. Aaron and Sean discuss the possibilities for businesses to use tonal analysis to gain deeper insights into customer needs and improve customer service, sales and even employee morale and satisfaction. At the same time, they explore the ethical implications of creating a modern, AI-powered “lie detector.”  Featuring: Sean Austin, CEO and co-founder of HeliosThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology.

From Chat GPT to a looming economic crisis, business leaders everywhere are living through turbulent times. Thankfully, The Catalyst by Softchoice is back with our biggest and most ambitious season ever.In Season 5, we'll continue to search for answers across 19 new episodes, exploring the intersection of people and technology. And we'll be doing it all with the help of two new co-hosts.Introducing Cheryl Stookes, Vice President of Revenue Growth and Marketing at Softchoice and Aaron Brooks, Vice President of Customer Strategy and Solution Sales at Softchoice. They will bring a fresh perspective to the dialogue, while digging into the biggest trends and topics facing senior business leaders.

In 2023, organizations face big challenges: an exhausted workforce, growing supply chain pressures, rising inflation and a hyper-competitive talent landscape. In this bonus Season 4 episode, Erika meets with Indeed Canada's Michelle Slater to talk about the era of quiet quitting and rage applying. They get to the heart of why it's crucial for employers to pay attention to emerging work trends so they can set strategic talent goals for long-term success. Erika also bids farewell to listeners, as she introduces The Catalyst's new co-hosts, Softchoice's Aaron Brooks and Cheryl Stookes.Featuring: Michelle Slater – Director of Country Marketing Canada at IndeedThe Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology.

A global pandemic, an ongoing supply chain crisis, a growing skills gap and a concerning labor shortage. The time for transformational businesses to build a more resilient future is now.  What are the biggest lessons of the last few years – and how can we better prepare for what's to come in 2023? Erika meets with the Chief Operating Officer at Softchoice, Andrew Caprara, to discuss how IT leaders can tackle the challenges ahead strategically and collaboratively, while driving growth. Featuring: Andrew Caprara – Chief Operating Officer, Softchoice The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology.  

The July 9th Rogers telecommunications outage left millions of people and businesses without cell phone or internet service, which in some cases lasted for days. In a world dependent on its digital telecommunications network – how do you prepare for the worst? Erika meets with Softchoice's Vice President of Business Technologies, Al Lakhani, to discuss the impact of the July 9th Rogers service outage, and what digital leaders can do to be more resilient and better prepared for worst-case scenarios. Featuring: Al Lakhani – Vice President of Business Technologies at Softchoice The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology.  

We all know the best offense is a strong defense – and that's as true for cybersecurity as it is for football. For all the attention we devote to cybersecurity, it's a wonder that one essential tool can make all the difference...cyber insurance.  Erika meets with Softchoice's Director of Security, Matt Sirbu, to discuss the best practices and policies for businesses to stay afloat in a digital era and keep their bottom lines safe. Featuring: Matt Sirbu – Director of Security at Softchoice The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology. The Catalyst listener contest has begun! We're giving away 10 Amazon gift cards to subscribers between now and the end of October. Taking part is as easy as subscribing and leaving us a review. Find out more and see full contest rules at: https://www.softchoice.com/thecatalyst/contest 

Technology leaders need to constantly communicate about complex, nuanced topics – and get people to act on those insights. So, what's the best way to do it? The answer for Google's Chief Content Officer, Priyanka Vergadia, lies in visual storytelling. Erika meets with Priyanka – better known as “Cloud Girl” to her online followers – to discuss the beauty and benefits of technical storytelling, female leadership in tech and getting creative with cloud computing. Featuring: Priyanka Vergadia – Chief Content Officer Google.  The Catalyst by Softchoice is the podcast shining a light on the human side of IT leaders and reframing our relationship with technology. This episode of the Catalyst is brought to you by Google Cloud Next -- a free, global hybrid event taking place live from October 11 to 13, 2022, and always available online. Learn more about the streamed broadcasts, on-demand digital content and in-person events to connect with Google Cloud experts. Visit cloud.withgoogle.com/next.