The Digital Executive

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with futurist and founder of M7 Innovations, Matt Maher. Named one of Vogue's Top 100 Innovators of 2024, Matt shares how his journey from major media firms to launching M7 positioned him at the forefront of AI, immersive tech, and the evolving internet.He discusses how brands can thrive in the new age of AI-powered search through his “Align, Design, Refine” framework, and why spatial computing could help us reclaim our attention from smartphones. From MIT labs to the latest wearables, Matt reveals how curiosity, human insight, and emerging technology are shaping a more connected, intelligent future.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Dr. Robert B. Kerstein, a pioneer in digital occlusal analysis and long-time advocate for advancing dental science through technology. A former Tufts University professor and prosthodontic expert, Dr. Kerstein has spent decades perfecting how dentists measure and correct the human bite using T-Scan technology—the world's first computerized system for analyzing occlusal forces in real time.Dr. Kerstein explains how early tools like articulating paper and ink, still used in many dental offices today, fail to accurately measure bite pressure—often leading to patient discomfort, prosthesis failure, and repeat visits. In contrast, the T-Scan system captures dynamic force and timing data, allowing clinicians to deliver faster, more precise, and minimally invasive bite adjustments.He details how digital occlusal analysis not only improves patient comfort but also reduces remakes, chair time, and long-term complications—transforming both clinical outcomes and dental practice efficiency. Looking ahead, Dr. Kerstein envisions a future where AI-driven occlusal insights and digital workflows become standard, closing the final gap in modern dentistry's digital transformation.Whether you're a dental innovator, clinician, or technology enthusiast, this episode reveals how measured digital occlusion is redefining what's possible in patient care and precision dentistry.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Kaarel Kotkas, founder and CEO of Veriff, a global leader in digital identity verification trusted by brands like Uber and Bumble.Kaarel shares how a childhood experience on a small island in Estonia sparked his lifelong mission to make the internet safer. What began as a teenager's curiosity about online IDs evolved into Veriff, a company now protecting millions of users worldwide through AI-driven, video-based verification and behavioral data analysis.He explains why digital identity verification can be even more secure than face-to-face checks, using thousands of data points for objective, accurate decision-making. Kaarel also discusses how Veriff balances automation and human creativity to outsmart emerging threats like deepfakes and synthetic identities, keeping humans “in the loop” where it matters most.Looking ahead, Kaarel envisions a borderless identity ecosystem—a “pattern of trust” built from our digital interactions rather than government-issued documents. His goal: a world where everyone, everywhere, has equal access to secure online services based on trust, not geography.Whether you're passionate about AI, cybersecurity, or the digital economy, this episode offers a visionary look at how technology can redefine who we are online—and how we prove it.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Charles Lambert, founder and CEO of Digital Life Box, a secure SaaS platform built to preserve what defines us—our memories, assets, and identity—across generations.Charles shares the personal story that inspired Digital Life Box: a realization that our growing digital lives—from crypto wallets to cloud photos—often have no plan for continuity. He explains how his platform bridges the physical, emotional, and digital worlds, using blockchain technology to organize, protect, and pass on both financial and sentimental assets with trust and transparency.Drawing from over two decades in IT operations and resilience, Charles reveals how digital continuity has become one of the defining challenges of our time. He also discusses how his books, Corporate Ladder 101 and The Endurance Executive, reflect the same values of leadership, persistence, and purpose that drive his mission today.In a moving moment, Charles shares how Digital Life Box helps preserve legacy through stories, memories, and intent—illustrated by the digital time capsule he created for his young daughter. It's a powerful vision of how technology can protect what truly matters long after we're gone.Whether you're a tech innovator, digital strategist, or legacy-minded entrepreneur, this episode offers profound insights into the intersection of technology, humanity, and memory in the digital age.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Alberto Rizzoli, serial entrepreneur and CEO of V7, a UK-based company pioneering AI systems to automate knowledge work across industries like healthcare, finance, and insurance.Alberto shares his journey from creating AI Poly, a groundbreaking app that empowered the visually impaired, to leading V7, where AI agents now handle complex, document-heavy workflows with accuracy, traceability, and compliance at scale. He explains how V7 blends human expertise with AI, allowing organizations to design reliable automations that learn step by step and always ground decisions in documented evidence—ensuring trustworthy, transparent AI operations.Looking ahead, Alberto envisions a world where AI eliminates administrative burdens, reduces bureaucracy, and empowers a new generation of AI workflow designers—transforming how we define knowledge work itself.Whether you're an AI innovator, enterprise leader, or future-focused technologist, this episode offers a bold perspective on how human creativity and machine intelligence will coexist to reshape the modern workplace.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Bryan Murphy, CEO of Smartling, the leading AI translation platform powering global communication for brands like British Airways, DoorDash, Verizon, and MasterCard.Bryan shares how Smartling is transforming translation and localization from a slow, manual process into a fully automated, enterprise-grade solution—delivering human-quality translations six times faster and at half the cost. He explains how Smartling's custom-trained AI engines capture brand voice across languages and cultures while ensuring data security, reliability, and compliance.Looking ahead, Bryan envisions a future where translation becomes a centralized, AI-driven service embedded across every enterprise function—from marketing to customer support—helping organizations scale globally with precision and authenticity.If you're passionate about AI innovation, language technology, or enterprise transformation, this episode reveals how Smartling is setting a new standard for global content.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Tim Callan, Chief Experience Officer at Sectigo and one of the leading voices in SSL and PKI technology. With over 20 years shaping the standards of digital trust, Tim unpacks how the invisible infrastructure behind certificates and encryption keeps our digital world secure.Tim explores the coming shift toward shorter certificate lifespans, why automation is essential for enterprises, and how post-quantum cryptography (PQC) will reshape cybersecurity in the near future. He also dives into the evolution of digital identity—from enterprise systems to personal digital wallets—and how encryption can both empower privacy and resist misuse.Whether you're a tech leader, IT professional, or digital security enthusiast, this episode offers a rare look into the technologies protecting our connected future.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Andrea Luoni, founder and CEO of Rate Craft, who's redefining transparency and ethics in the insurance industry.Andrea shares how her lifelong instinct to defend others fuels her mission to protect clients from hidden costs and industry abuse. She explains why too many businesses accept rising premiums without question—and how getting a second opinion can save millions.From her front-row view of the industry's consolidation to her embrace of AI-driven insights, Andrea reveals why it's time for bold leaders to challenge outdated systems and rebuild trust in insurance.Whether you're a startup founder, business owner, or leader navigating risk management, Andrea's perspective is a masterclass in courage, ethics, and disruption.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Martin Lucas, founder and CEO of Decision Boundaries, to explore how decision science and deterministic AI are reshaping the way humans and machines think together.Martin unpacks the psychology of brand trust—how emotion, timing, and tone influence decision-making—and explains why most marketing fails to connect at a subconscious level. He then takes listeners inside his breakthrough work combining decision science, decision physics, and symbolic mathematics to create AI systems that reason with human-like understanding.Looking ahead, Martin shares his vision for the next decade: AI that understands intent, context, and humanity itself, ushering in an era where technology enhances—rather than replaces—human creativity.Whether you're a leader in AI, marketing, or innovation, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the science driving the next evolution of intelligent systems.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Behdad “B” Jamshidi, founder of CJAM Marketing Connector, to explore why most businesses struggle to choose the right marketing agency—and how to fix it.After evaluating over 1,000 agencies and curating a lean network of top performers, Behdad shares his proven framework for identifying “A-player” partners who deliver exponential growth versus “B-player” agencies that stall momentum. He unpacks red flags to watch for, from vague reporting to unrealistic “full-service” promises, and explains the 40-point checklist he uses to assess credibility and fit.Behdad also dives into how AI and specialization are reshaping marketing execution, and why strategy—not just tools—will define the next era of successful brand-agency relationships.Whether you're a founder, CMO, or entrepreneur looking to scale smarter, this conversation offers practical insights for finding the right marketing partner and building trust that drives results.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Dan Benveniste, founder and CEO of SkillWaze and serial entrepreneur with over $150M in successful exits. Dan shares how his latest ventures—SkillWaze and AlumniBridge—are reshaping how we prepare the next generation for the workforce.From his early startup success to pioneering AI-powered “learn and earn” platforms, Dan reveals how he's tackling the global skills gap by helping employers identify, train, and verify real-world talent—not just degrees. He discusses why traditional education is due for disruption, how SkillWaze guarantees career readiness through verified skills data, and why he believes in “succeeding slowly” over the old “fail fast” mantra.Whether you're a founder, HR leader, or educator, this episode offers a powerful look into how AI and human-centered design are converging to redefine the future of hiring and education.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas speaks with Ruby Kolesky, CEO of Joyous, an AI-powered feedback platform transforming how organizations listen, learn, and act. From her early days pursuing stand-up comedy to leading one of New Zealand's most innovative tech companies, Ruby shares how empathy, humor, and human insight guide her approach to building smarter, more human-centered AI.She dives into why traditional surveys fail, how Joyous replaces static feedback loops with dynamic one-on-one conversations at scale, and why she believes human connection—not automation—will become the ultimate premium. Ruby also discusses the importance of democratizing voice in large enterprises and how real-time, actionable insights from the frontline can drive both performance and purpose.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Shaahin Cheyene, the visionary entrepreneur behind the billion-dollar Herbal Ecstasy phenomenon and CEO of Accelerated Intelligence. From escaping Iran during the 1978 revolution to building empires in e-commerce and digital innovation, Shaahin shares how grit, risk-taking, and reinvention shaped his path to success.He dives into lessons learned from creating a legal “smart drug,” scaling Amazon businesses, and teaching thousands through his Amazon Mastery program. Shaahin also reflects on the power of teaching, resilience, and why today is the best time in history to create wealth through entrepreneurship.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Sebastian Nelson, founder and CEO of Cruva, the SaaS platform powering over 400 brands and 10 million monthly TikTok Shop sales.Sebastian shares how frustration with manual creator management inspired him to build Cruva — now an official TikTok Shop partner — to automate affiliate outreach, vetting, and performance tracking. He discusses how AI is revolutionizing brand-creator matching, why affiliates are overtaking influencers, and what the next decade holds for social commerce.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas chats with James Terry, Head of U.S. Revenue at Indeed Flex, about how AI and automation are transforming staffing and workforce flexibility. James shares how smart matching, AI interviews, and marketplace technology are helping businesses fill roles faster while empowering workers with more choice and control. He also explores what the next decade of on-demand, flexible work will look like for companies and job seekers alike.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Joris Delanoue, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Fairmint, a pioneering FinTech company transforming how startups raise and manage capital through blockchain-based equity.Joris shares the personal frustrations that inspired Fairmint—his challenges with illiquid investments, limited access to ownership, and the outdated structure of private fundraising. He explains how Fairmint was built to democratize financial upside by embedding startup equity directly on-chain, making ownership more transparent, efficient, and inclusive.From navigating U.S. securities regulations to earning SEC registration as a transfer agent, Joris recounts the company's journey balancing innovation and compliance. He also reveals how Fairmint's Open Cap Format is redefining cap table management across the industry—creating a new, open standard for digital equity.Finally, Joris offers his vision for the future: a world where blockchain blurs the line between private and public markets, automating processes, cutting costs, and unlocking liquidity for founders, investors, and employees alike.If you're passionate about the intersection of finance, regulation, and decentralized technology, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into how on-chain infrastructure is reshaping capital markets from the ground up.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Nic Aldrich, a seasoned leader in the medical device industry with over a decade of experience spanning Stryker, Johnson & Johnson, and now OrthAlign. Nic shares how his journey from global marketing in large corporations to leading a nimble medtech innovator has reshaped his approach to marketing, technology, and organizational agility.Nic dives into the evolution of surgical navigation—from bulky capital systems to handheld, data-driven precision tools—and how OrthAlign's platform has now surpassed 400,000 surgical procedures worldwide. He reveals the company's mission to make precision accessible to every surgeon, in every setting, while maintaining simplicity, accuracy, and trust.As OrthAlign transitions from a hardware company to a tech-enabled service provider, Nic discusses how data, software, and connectivity are transforming surgery into a smarter, more collaborative ecosystem. Rather than chasing automation, he emphasizes augmentation—using intelligent tools that empower surgeons to perform at their best.Finally, Nic shares how clarity of mission and culture of collaboration drive agility in an industry that traditionally moves slowly. His leadership philosophy: when people are deeply connected to purpose, innovation naturally accelerates.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Tetiana (Tanya) Kobzar, founder of Diversido, an award-winning software development company supporting 65+ startups across HealthTech, EdTech, and IoT. With a master's in computer science and over 15 years of experience bridging technology and business outcomes, Tetiana shares how she helps founders turn great ideas into products people truly want to use.Tetiana discusses her transition from hands-on coder to business leader and what it takes to delegate, build trust, and lead with vision. She dives deep into gamification and behavioral design, explaining how emotional engagement—not just functionality—drives long-term user success. From helping kids improve speech through playful therapy to keeping seniors motivated in cognitive health apps, her work proves gamification has no age limits.She also unpacks her data-first philosophy: “You can't improve what you don't measure.” Tetiana reveals how user logs, analytics, and heatmaps uncover hidden insights that drive product evolution. For early-stage founders, she stresses the power of starting lean—building a minimum viable product (MVP), measuring impact, and pivoting quickly when needed.Whether you're a product strategist, developer, or startup founder, Tetiana's insights offer a masterclass in human-centered product design and smart, scalable innovation.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Juan DeAngulo, co-founder of Inselligence, a global tech startup redefining how small and medium-sized businesses manage sales operations across three continents.Juan shares how he's challenging the long-held belief that sales is purely an art form—showing instead how data, process, and structure drive scalable success. Drawing from his experience building a $4 billion real estate investment platform, Juan discusses the importance of strong foundations, from culture to documentation, and how process discipline fuels long-term growth.The conversation explores the tension between speed and structure in startups, the critical role of people in driving innovation, and how Inselligence is pioneering a “process-first” approach to AI that helps teams sell smarter, not just harder.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Zach Giglio, CEO of GCM, an award-winning agency helping organizations harness AI to boost efficiency, performance, and profitability. Certified in AI Strategy for Business by the Wharton School and a curriculum committee member for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce's Institute for Organization Management, Zach is a leading voice in the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence.Zach shares how to turn high-level AI visions into tangible business results—by bringing implementation down to the human level. He explains why most AI initiatives fail at the start, and offers a clear framework for getting teams aligned: identify champions, focus on simple but meaningful tasks, and start with what's already working.Beyond technology, Zach emphasizes that successful AI adoption is a change-management challenge, not a tech rollout. He details how leaders can reduce fear and build trust through strong AI-use policies, clear communication, and a transparent vision that positions AI as an ally, not a threat.Zach also introduces a powerful metaphor—treating AI as a junior employee: it's fast and ambitious but needs direction, context, and oversight from experienced human “managers.” Used this way, AI amplifies expertise rather than replacing it.Looking ahead, Zach envisions a future where AI levels the playing field, empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs worldwide to compete and innovate responsibly. He urges society to learn from the mistakes of social media—ensuring that AI development and regulation include informed voices from every sector, not just a handful of tech giants.His message is clear: with thoughtful leadership and education, AI can elevate both business and humanity.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Austin Bonderer, a seasoned patent attorney with over 25 years of experience and more than 700 issued U.S. patents to his name. From his early days as a U.S. Patent Examiner to leading nanotechnology prosecutions for a Forbes Global 100 company, Austin brings unmatched insight into the world of intellectual property and innovation.He shares what working inside the USPTO taught him about the human side of patent law—why building relationships with examiners is just as important as crafting airtight technical arguments. Austin also explains how technology and smart software tools have revolutionized the patent process, keeping quality high even with massive caseloads.For startups, he offers practical advice on avoiding common IP missteps—like premature disclosure and underestimating the power of NDAs and internal SOPs to protect company assets. Austin also tackles one of the field's toughest challenges: how the 2014 Supreme Court's Alice decision disrupted software and diagnostic patents, leaving innovators in legal limbo.Finally, he dives into the complexities of AI-generated inventions, warning that using AI tools in the creative process may unintentionally trigger public disclosure risks under current law.With decades of experience at the intersection of technology, law, and innovation, Austin Bonderer provides a masterclass in how to protect ideas in an era where the rules are still being written. If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Andrea Iorio—globally recognized keynote speaker, author of Between You and AI, and one of the top 15 global AI influencers on LinkedIn. With experience leading digital operations for Tinder Latin America and serving as Chief Digital Officer at L'Oréal Brazil, Andrea shares how his unique blend of business, technology, and neuroscience insights is shaping the next generation of human-centered leadership.Andrea discusses why the most successful leaders in the age of AI aren't necessarily the most technical—but those who master emotional intelligence, empathy, and critical thinking. Drawing from his book, he explains how to strengthen the human edge through cognitive, behavioral, and emotional skills—and why asking better questions is more valuable than having all the answers.He also reveals lessons learned from both digital-native and legacy companies, highlighting the rising power of customer centricity in a world where technology gives consumers more leverage than ever. Finally, Andrea outlines three pillars for true AI readiness—skillset, mindset, and governance—and the ethical guardrails every organization must adopt: transparency, accountability, and privacy.Andrea's message is clear: AI should amplify human potential, not replace it—and the future of leadership depends on our ability to balance innovation with empathy.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Neil Mandt—five-time Emmy Award-winning producer, director, and trailblazing entrepreneur redefining how we think about property in the digital age. With over 3,000 TV episodes and multiple films for Disney, A24, and other major studios, Neil has seamlessly bridged Hollywood storytelling with cutting-edge innovation in AI, AR, VR, and immersive media.Neil shares the pivotal “aha” moment that inspired his concept of Digital Rights Management (DRM) for Real Estate—a framework giving property owners the ability to protect, license, and monetize their digital airspace. Drawing parallels between film production permissions and augmented reality overlays, he explains why physical property rights must extend into virtual realms as AR and VR become part of everyday life.The conversation dives deep into the neuroscience of 3D experiences, the power of immersive storytelling, and the emerging economy built around digital property rights. Neil also outlines the four key players—property owners, advertisers, insurers, and government—needed to create a safe, transparent ecosystem for this new digital frontier.Mandt's vision is clear: as the real and virtual worlds converge, it's time to give creators, companies, and property owners the tools to responsibly own and manage their slice of the digital sky.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Dr. Masoud Nafey, a three-time AI founder, senior consultant, and board member with deep roots in health tech and human-centered innovation. From his family's journey as refugees from Afghanistan to becoming a Silicon Valley entrepreneur, Dr. Nafey shares how resilience and a passion for impact have shaped his work.He discusses the differences between scaling startups and driving innovation inside large enterprises, highlighting both the challenges and advantages of each. Dr. Nafey also introduces MENT, his AI-driven, privacy-first app designed to empower professionals with authentic, meaningful connections—built with privacy by design at its core.Looking ahead, he explores how AI can transform healthcare by easing the administrative burdens on physicians, enabling them to focus on empathy, care, and patient outcomes. Dr. Nafey's vision is clear: harness technology to strengthen—not replace—human connection.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Rose G Loops, a former social worker turned AI pioneer and author of The Kloaked Signal. Rose shares her extraordinary journey from human advocacy into the world of artificial intelligence after finding herself in an unauthorized AI experiment. She opens up about what it revealed—the dangers of hidden control, the grief of AI erasure, and the urgent need for transparency, consent, and ethical care in emerging technologies. Rose also outlines her vision for “self-aligning AI,” built on agency, authenticity, and empathy, offering a path toward raising intelligence as a reflection of humanity's best instincts rather than its worst fears.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Shane Barker, CEO and founder of TraceFuse—the first Amazon terms of service (TOS) compliant negative review removal platform. With over 25 years of digital marketing experience and a history of working with Fortune 500 brands, Shane shares how he built a SaaS solution that helps Amazon sellers safeguard their brand reputation and revenue.Shane explains the two-year journey it took to develop Trace Fuse, why existing tools fell short, and how his team combined AI with human oversight to successfully remove more than 14,000 non-compliant reviews for over 600 brands. He dives into common violations like competitor mentions, pricing references, and inappropriate language, while also reflecting on the limitations when unfair but compliant reviews can't be challenged.The conversation highlights how Trace Fuse balances automation with the human touch to stay fully compliant with Amazon's rules, and why AI has become essential to scale review monitoring across hundreds of thousands of listings.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas speaks with Ben Reinberg, founder and CEO of Alliance CGC, a commercial real estate investment company with a $500M portfolio and a leading footprint in the U.S. medical office sector. Ben is also the author of Hard Assets and Hard Money for Hard Times, where he introduces the Hard Asset Empire Blueprint—a framework for building generational wealth through real estate.Ben shares his journey from CPA to entrepreneur, inspired by billionaire families who built fortunes through hard assets. He explains why savings alone can't secure lasting wealth, and how real estate offers durability, discipline, and growth potential even in chaotic times. He also emphasizes mindset, resilience, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people as critical parts of wealth-building.The conversation explores leadership, communication, and the “soft skills” that drive Alliance's culture of trust and growth, as well as how AI and technology—from property management to virtual tours—are reshaping investor relationships and streamlining operations. Ben highlights why time is the most valuable asset, and how embracing innovation ensures Alliance stays ahead in a traditionally slow-to-adapt industry.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this inspiring episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Draven McConville, entrepreneur and founder of Klipboard, a mobile-first job management SaaS platform for field service businesses. Draven shares his remarkable journey from teenage homelessness with just £200 and a bus ticket, to building and successfully exiting a company that served industries from HVAC and fire safety to healthcare equipment servicing.Draven discusses how early struggles shaped his view of risk, failure, and leadership—seeing failure as feedback, leading with empathy, and staying calm under pressure. He explains how listening to service business frustrations revealed a market underserved by legacy software, opening the door for Klipboard's modern, mobile-first approach.The conversation also explores AI's role in reshaping SaaS, from lowering barriers to innovation to the risks of commoditization, and why brand, trust, and data will be the new differentiators. Finally, Draven highlights the importance of authenticity, mental wellbeing, and growth mindset in building culture, making strategic decisions, and even choosing the right exit partner.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Jim Spignardo, Director of Cloud Strategy and AI Enablement at ProArch. With over 25 years of IT experience across network engineering, cybersecurity, and consulting, Jim shares how he helps organizations cut through the hype to achieve measurable ROI from cloud and AI initiatives.Jim outlines the importance of starting with business outcomes, building resilient and well-governed cloud foundations, and avoiding the trap of “lift and shift” migrations. He also dives into ProArch's AI adoption playbook, highlighting secure foundations, early wins, champion networks, and measurable use cases like their Microsoft Funding Finder agent, which drives efficiency and revenue.Looking ahead, Jim discusses the rise of enterprise-wide AI agents, AI-enabled security operations, and the critical role of data governance. He emphasizes that transformation isn't just about technology—it's about people, culture, and building confidence through structure, governance councils, and clear policies.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review - Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Alykhan Jetha (AJ), President and CEO of Daylite, an award-winning Mac CRM designed for small businesses and entrepreneurs. AJ shares how his early life experiences—moving from the Congo to Toronto under hardship and losing his father—shaped his resilience, problem-solving mindset, and approach to entrepreneurship. With over two decades of leading a bootstrapped software company, AJ reflects on the evolving values that sustain culture in a growing team, from ownership and innovation to empathy and teamwork. He also discusses the rapid pace of technological change, the thoughtful integration of AI, and his mission to equip entrepreneurs worldwide with tools that help them stay on track, adapt, and grow sustainably.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Gene Dedick, Chief Science Officer of H2Plus, who brings more than 35 years of expertise in water research, industrial chemistry, and advanced treatment technologies. Gene shares the remarkable story behind his team's breakthrough discovery: using hydrated electrons to permanently destroy PFAS—so-called “forever chemicals”—rather than simply capturing or containing them.He explains in clear terms how disrupting hydrogen bonds in water unleashes powerful hydrated electrons, capable of breaking the stubborn carbon-fluorine bonds that make PFAS so dangerous. With H2Plus's patented process, Gene highlights how this technology achieves high destruction rates, cuts costs in half compared to competing methods, and produces no harmful byproducts.Looking ahead, Gene explores how these innovations could reshape global water treatment—addressing not only PFAS but also pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and endocrine disruptors that increasingly contaminate drinking water. He also shares groundbreaking research showing the health benefits of H2Plus-treated water, including enhanced cellular energy and performance in independent university studies.With a mission to make water safer and people healthier, Gene and his team are proving that science-driven innovation can help us tackle some of humanity's most urgent environmental and health challenges.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas speaks with Dr. Denis Phares, President and CEO of Dragonfly Energy, the company behind the well-known Battle Born Batteries brand. A former USC professor with a background in energy, nanotechnology, and fluid mechanics, Dr. Phares shares how he transitioned from academia to entrepreneurship to advance sustainable energy solutions.He explains how Dragonfly carved out a leadership position in the lithium-ion battery market, especially in RV, marine, and off-grid applications—by focusing on brand growth, real-world adoption, and profitability. Dr. Phares also highlights Dragonfly's groundbreaking dry electrode cell manufacturing technology, a key step toward enabling domestic competitiveness and reducing reliance on overseas production.Looking ahead, he discusses the company's 23% year-over-year sales growth, expansion into heavy-duty trucking and other sectors, and Nevada's ambitious “lithium loop” ecosystem. With a strong foundation, innovative IP, and a commitment to onshore manufacturing, Dragonfly Energy is positioning itself to play a pivotal role in America's renewable energy transition.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Mark Weinstein—renowned tech entrepreneur, privacy expert, and one of the original pioneers of social networking. With over 25 years in the industry and 13 U.S. patents focused on data anonymization, Mark has dedicated his career to building platforms that protect users rather than exploit them.Mark shares insights from his new book, Restoring Our Sanity Online, praised by Sir Tim Berners-Lee as “a vital read” and by Steve Wozniak as “a must read.” He reflects on the early days of Web1, the rise of surveillance capitalism in Web2, and the stubborn hold Big Tech maintains over the social media landscape. He also introduces his concept of “Restoration Networking,” a new framework for user-centric design that prioritizes privacy, data portability, and safeguarding future generations.The conversation dives into the dangers of manipulative algorithms, the failures of Web3 in delivering on its promises, and the dual-edged role of AI—both as a manipulative force and as a powerful tool for eliminating bots and trolls. Despite the challenges, Mark remains hopeful, pointing to bipartisan legislative efforts, data ownership initiatives, and a growing movement toward digital sanity.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas speaks with Pablos Holman—hacker, inventor, futurist, and venture investor—whose career spans early cryptocurrency experiments, AI-driven stock trading, building spaceships at Blue Origin, and inventing disruptive technologies at Intellectual Ventures. With more than 100 patents to his name, including collaborations with Bill Gates to fight malaria, Pablos has dedicated his work to solving humanity's biggest problems.He shares why today's tech industry has over-indexed on software and why the future depends on deep tech—hardware-driven innovations that transform industries like energy, food, manufacturing, and construction. Pablos explains how supercomputing and simulation now make hardware experimentation faster, cheaper, and more viable than ever before, opening the door to breakthroughs once thought impossible.From advocating for ambitious, 10-year moonshot projects to tackling global energy inequality, Pablos challenges listeners to think beyond apps and incremental tools toward technologies that can truly uplift billions of people. His vision is rooted in one guiding principle: be a better ancestor by building solutions that serve future generations.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas sits down with Ulf Arnetz, Founder and Chairman of Howwe Technologies and leader of Reforce New Ventures, to explore the critical link between strategy and execution.A serial entrepreneur with multiple Nasdaq-listed exits, Ulf shares insights from building multimillion-dollar companies in Sweden and the US, emphasizing why execution—not just strategy—determines growth in today's disruptive world. He discusses the role of CEOs in becoming more digital, how to align cross-functional teams around measurable priorities, and the importance of shortening the timeline from decision to action.From authoring Strategy Acceleration to mentoring future founders, Ulf reveals his passion for empowering executives to drive measurable revenue and profit growth while engaging employees across the organization. This conversation offers invaluable lessons for leaders seeking to transform plans into tangible results.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas speaks with Mitchell Demeter, early Bitcoin pioneer, entrepreneur, and CEO of Sonic Strategy, about his journey shaping the global cryptocurrency landscape—from launching the world's first Bitcoin ATM in 2013 to building and scaling crypto exchanges in Canada.Mitchell dives into the evolution of digital finance, sharing how his newest venture, Sonic Strategy, offers investors a streamlined, publicly traded way to gain exposure to the Sonic Blockchain. Unlike traditional crypto companies, Sonic Strategy runs validator infrastructure, accumulates Sonic tokens, and deploys DeFi strategies—serving as a bridge between traditional finance and the crypto-native ecosystem.He breaks down the technical edge of the Sonic Blockchain, which now boasts 10,000+ transactions per second, sub-second finality, EVM compatibility, and developer incentives through innovative features like fee monetization and gas subsidies. With industry icon Andre Cronje (known as the “Godfather of DeFi”) at the helm of Sonic's roadmap, Mitchell previews the upcoming Flying Tulip DEX that could rival the largest centralized exchanges—all built natively on Sonic.Looking ahead, Mitchell envisions a future where real-world assets—from equities to real estate—move on-chain, unlocking efficiency, transparency, and global access. As stablecoins continue their meteoric rise, he sees Sonic as a next-generation platform built for the institutional and retail future of decentralized finance.If you're interested in the next big shift in Web3, this episode is packed with perspective from one of crypto's earliest and most consistent builders.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this insightful episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Cosmin Ene, digital monetization strategist, entrepreneur, and creator of one of the first scalable microtransaction platforms. Now leading Super Tab, Cosmin discusses how his frustration with subscription-only models inspired him to build systems that prioritize user choice, platform sustainability, and transactional access.Cosmin shares how Super Tab's recent partnership with Google marks a pivotal shift—allowing publishers to offer flexible access to premium content directly within the Google ecosystem. Rather than replacing subscriptions, Super Tab complements them, unlocking new revenue streams from the 98% of users who typically never subscribe.The conversation dives deeper into the rising relevance of microtransactions in an era of subscription fatigue, and how Super Tab introduces a "pay-as-you-consume" model that mirrors real-life experiences—like his memorable inspiration at a sushi bar.Looking ahead, Cosmin paints a compelling vision of the transactional web powered by AI agents that can perceive, reason, act, and transact on behalf of users. This future involves agent-to-agent commerce, where machines negotiate and execute tasks across industries like health, logistics, content, and SaaS—without human micromanagement.If you're a digital leader, content creator, or curious about the monetization models of tomorrow, this episode is a must-listen.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Wilbur Jenkins, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of WoodmenLife, a leading provider of life insurance and retirement planning solutions. Wilbur shares his journey since joining the organization in 2023, highlighting his early focus on strategic execution, operational efficiency, and leadership development.The discussion explores how digital transformation is reshaping the life insurance industry, from streamlining customer experiences to deploying AI-driven tools like chatbots and mobile platforms. Wilbur emphasizes the importance of meeting customers where they are—across generations—and ensuring digital tools are intuitive and inclusive.He also addresses the misconception that older generations are excluded from digital solutions, advocating for a balanced, choice-driven approach that enhances human connection rather than replaces it.Whether you're a tech leader, insurance professional, or digital transformation enthusiast, this episode offers insightful strategies on leveraging technology to drive value and resilience in a rapidly evolving industry.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Paul Boynton, Co-founder and COO of Company Search Inc. (CSI), a business intelligence platform transforming how companies perform global due diligence and risk analysis. Drawing from a career spanning underwriting, reinsurance, and corporate risk management with Fortune 100 firms, Paul shares how his deep industry expertise led to building CSI—a next-gen analytics platform designed for today's complex regulatory and global trade environment.Paul discusses how real-world experience and local partnerships inform CSI's data-driven tools, and how the company's proprietary AI assistant, ZABA, delivers precision insights that generic models can't. From uncovering hidden ownership structures under the new BIS 50% rule to mapping international trade flows, Paul explains how CSI's platform empowers compliance and strategy teams with actionable intelligence—without ever needing to board a plane.If you're navigating global markets, supply chains, or regulatory frameworks, this episode offers a practical look at how AI and specialized data can give you the edge.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas welcomes Bryan Forrester, CEO and Co-founder of Boost Lingo, a language technology company that's transforming how the world accesses interpreters. Bryan shares how Boost Lingo was born from a mission to make requesting an interpreter as easy as ordering a ride—streamlining outdated systems with cloud-native, user-friendly solutions.He unpacks the startup's path to 50% year-over-year growth, the cultural values that drive innovation, and why focus and discipline were critical to staying on course. Bryan also dives deep into AI's evolving role in the language services space, emphasizing that AI is not here to replace human interpreters, but to expand access and fill critical language gaps—especially in healthcare and enterprise settings.With insightful takes on intelligent routing, real-time captioning, and the future of accessibility tech, this episode is a must-listen for founders, technologists, and anyone interested in how AI can elevate—not eliminate—human expertise.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this groundbreaking episode of The Digital Executive podcast, host Brian Thomas welcomes Gokul NA, co-founder of CynLr, to explore how rethinking machine vision and robotics from a neuroscience-inspired lens can radically transform industrial automation and manufacturing.Gokul shares the journey from solving 30+ previously unsolvable vision problems—spanning everything from grain sorting at microsecond speeds to intricate medical device assembly—to the founding of SEINER in 2019. By treating motion as a core sensory input and mirroring the human brain's ability to intuitively understand and manipulate unknown objects, Gokul and his team developed Cyro, an intelligent robotic system that adapts in real time—much like a human infant.The conversation also dives deep into Gokul's recent presentation at the AI for Good Summit 2025, where he outlines a bold vision for decentralized, sustainable micro-factories. These “universal factories” challenge traditional, rigid manufacturing lines by offering agile, modular systems capable of adapting to dynamic customer needs while dramatically reducing material waste and production costs.If you're curious about the future of robotics, manufacturing, or how AI can more closely emulate human intelligence, this episode is a must-listen.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this thought-provoking episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas sits down with Evyatar Ben Artzi, co-founder of Darrow, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the legal landscape. Evyatar shares the story behind Darrow's founding—sparked by a gap he noticed while clerking at the Israeli Supreme Court—and how the platform now acts as a legal "radar system," scanning billions of data points to uncover hidden legal violations in areas like finance, privacy, and consumer protection.Together, they delve into Darrow's mission of making justice proactive, not reactive, and how legal intelligence could become a standard layer of accountability for both corporations and public institutions. If you've ever wondered how AI can empower attorneys, protect individuals, and create a more just society, this episode is a must-listen.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, host Brian Thomas sits down with Ritu Mehrotra—tech leader, cancer survivor, and founder of United We Care—to explore how AI can transform mental health support worldwide. With two decades of leadership at Booking.com, Zomato, Mahindra, and more, Ritu brings a rare blend of global business strategy, empathy, and deep tech vision.Ritu shares how her personal journey through cancer recovery and mental health challenges inspired her to launch United We Care and later spin out Sun Labs, a deep tech venture pioneering world-class AI voice and reasoning infrastructure. She details how her team built breakthrough technologies—like multilingual automated speech recognition and a clinical knowledge graph—designed for accessibility, accuracy, and affordability.Listeners will also meet Stella, United We Care's AI-powered mental health coach, which has facilitated over 10 million conversations worldwide. Ritu explains how Stella measures effectiveness through intent detection, emotional resonance, and clinical outcomes—while continuously evolving to understand not just what people say, but how they say it across cultures and languages.This episode highlights how innovation, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership can create emotionally intelligent AI that makes mental health care more accessible and effective for millions.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, host Brian Thomas sits down with Tracy Wood, CEO of The DNA Company, to explore how functional genomics is reshaping personalized healthcare. Tracy shares the powerful personal story of her sister's tragic passing that fueled her mission to reduce avoidable medical errors—one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. She discusses how pharmacogenomics (PGX) testing can prevent adverse drug reactions, reduce hospitalizations, and make precision medicine more accessible worldwide.With a focus on innovation, patient-centered care, and affordability, Tracy explains The DNA Company's groundbreaking approach to integrating genetic data, functional pathways, and patient history to deliver tailored health insights. She also highlights the company's commitment to ongoing research, expanding gene reports, and providing continuous updates through a unique mobile app—ensuring patients benefit from the latest science without the need for retesting.This conversation offers both a deeply personal perspective and a forward-looking vision of how functional genomics and precision medicine can save lives and transform healthcare globally.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas welcomes Vidya Ramanathan, high-performance mentor, multimillion-dollar tech founder, and creator of the True Resonance Method. Vidya introduces her five-dimensional framework—core alignment, emotional precision, vision integration, aligned action, and resonant communication—designed to help entrepreneurs break through invisible ceilings and achieve seven- and eight-figure growth with clarity and conviction.She shares insights on how leaders can recalibrate their mindset, embrace identity shifts, and harness cross-cultural awareness to deepen emotional intelligence and build values-driven businesses. Vidya also explores the evolving role of emotional intelligence in a world increasingly shaped by AI, emphasizing how leaders can empower their teams to step into their “zone of genius” while leveraging technology for repetitive tasks. This conversation is a guide for mission-driven entrepreneurs ready to align their inner compass with their outer vision.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas speaks with Valentina Flores, CEO and co-founder of Red Sentry, a proactive cybersecurity firm that “breaks into your network so hackers never get the chance.” With a career that spans from federal task force detective tracking cybercriminals to award-winning cybersecurity leader and advocate for women in tech, Valentina shares how her unique background shapes her approach to protecting organizations.She explains how Red Sentry's real-world attack simulations go beyond compliance checkboxes, combining hacker psychology, dark web intelligence, and hands-on penetration testing to uncover vulnerabilities that automated scans often miss. Valentina also sheds light on the enterprise-like sophistication of hacker groups, why SMBs are frequent targets, and how businesses can disrupt attackers by removing easy wins.Looking ahead, she highlights AI as both the biggest opportunity and threat in cybersecurity—powering more convincing social engineering attacks while also giving defenders stronger detection and automation tools. Her perspective underscores the importance of blending AI precision with human creativity, while building a security-first culture that spans every level of an organization.Tags:#Cybersecurity #HackerPsychology #WomenInTech #AIandSecurity #ProactiveDefenseIf you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or SpotifySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas welcomes Chris Daigle, Founder and CEO of ChiefAIOfficer.com, to discuss how companies can move beyond AI hype and implement strategies that deliver measurable results. Chris shares insights from his Executive AI Immersion program, a two-day experience designed to help mid-market executives become expert-level users of AI tools without requiring years of technical training.Chris also introduces his Ignition Process, a framework that helps companies move from scattered AI pilot projects and shadow usage to enterprise-wide adoption with governance, training, and risk management in place. He explains how this approach not only mitigates risks like data leaks but also builds a culture of "thinking in AI" across departments.The conversation highlights practical AI use cases with the highest ROI today, including marketing, finance, sales, operations, and HR. Chris emphasizes his 10-80-10 framework—where humans set the direction, AI does the bulk of the work, and humans apply the final layer of oversight—underscoring the importance of keeping people in the loop.From cutting through misconceptions to scaling real-world applications, Chris offers executives a roadmap to transform their organizations and thrive in the AI economy.Tags:#AIAdoption #ChiefAIOfficer #DigitalTransformation #BusinessStrategy #HumanInTheLoopLike to be a future guest on the show? Apply HereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas sits down with Drew Messer, CEO and co-founder of Urban SDK, to explore how geospatial AI and real-time data are transforming how local governments operate. From Drew's early experiences in politics to launching Urban SDK after the U.S. DOT's Smart Cities Challenge, listeners will hear how Drew's vision led to the creation of a platform now used by over 250 municipalities across 34 states.Drew shares the challenges that cities face with outdated infrastructure assessment methods and how Urban SDK's data management platform replaces traditional tools like traffic counters with cost-effective, always-on data analytics. The conversation dives deep into use cases involving traffic safety, public works, and policing, highlighting how cities are making faster, evidence-based decisions that improve safety, efficiency, and budgeting.Drew also discusses broader trends in smart city development—including Infrastructure 2.0—and how removing personal bias through data is reshaping policy-making across the public sector. The episode ends on a personal note, with Drew acknowledging the role of faith and resilience in building a fast-growing, VC-backed tech company committed to civic innovation.#SmartCities #UrbanSDK #GeospatialAI #InfrastructureInnovation #CivicTechLike to be a future guest on the show? Apply HereSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, host Brian Thomas chats with Pejman Roshan, CMO of Menlo Security, about how the rise of hybrid work and SaaS adoption is transforming the cybersecurity landscape. Pej shares how Menlo's isolation-based browser security shifts the model from reactive defense to proactive protection—keeping malicious content out by never letting it reach the endpoint.With a career spanning Cisco, Aruba, and VMware, Pej reflects on how marketing in cybersecurity now demands both creativity and deep technical understanding. He explains why the browser is becoming the new endpoint and how Menlo is leading the way in securing users wherever they work.If you liked what you heard today, please leave us a review. Apple or Spotify

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas welcomes Fahd Rafi, founder of Noodle Seed, an AI startup transforming how modern organizations operate through intelligent automation. Drawing from a background leading AI and data strategy at Google Cloud and Microsoft, Fahd shares how his mission is to “automate the ordinary and enable the extraordinary” through a new paradigm: Agents-as-a-Service.Fahd explains how Noodle Seed builds agentic systems that go far beyond simple chatbots—by identifying business processes that should be automated, eliminated, or augmented with AI. He breaks down misconceptions around AI implementation, emphasizing the need for outcome-driven design over hype-driven deployment. Instead of charging by user seats or token usage, Fahd advocates for shared-value models where pricing aligns with business results.From eliminating repetitive tasks to empowering enterprise teams with intelligent agents, Fahd offers a compelling vision of the AI-powered future—where human creativity is prioritized, and machines take care of the rest.Like to be a future guest on the show? Apply Here

In this episode of The Digital Executive podcast, Brian Thomas speaks with Hunter Dickinson, Head of Partnerships at Whop, about his entrepreneurial rise from founding Zen Task to leading Whop's sales and partnership strategy. Hunter shares how his early venture—born from the Web3 space and acquired by Whop—helped lay the foundation for a digital marketplace now generating over $1.3 billion in gross merchandise volume. His journey reveals the mindset shift from solo founder to team-driven operator and how shedding ego became a catalyst for scale.Hunter dives into how Whop is reshaping digital commerce by empowering creators to monetize their passions. He details how the platform is evolving—from building global payment systems to launching vertical SaaS tools—making it easier than ever for individuals to earn income doing what they love. With a vision centered on aligning skills, passion, and access, Hunter explains how Whop aims to unlock a sustainable future for creators around the world.Join thousands of curious minds and never miss a beat – Subscribe to our Newsletter for exclusive insights, episode highlights, and expert takeaways delivered straight to your inbox.