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Send us a textIn this Episode of Exchanges with Hitachi Solutions, Alex Rigaud, VP of Incubation Solutions at Hitachi Solutions joins Jay Natarajan as they draw upon decades of experience at the intersection of cloud, AI, and digital transformation to discuss how organizations can avoid past mistakes and maximize the business value of AI adoption. Their conversation explores practical strategies for building momentum, driving user adoption, and ensuring that technology investments deliver real returns across the enterprise.Key Topics Covered:The importance of focusing on business problems and process optimization before implementing technology Strategies for building momentum with small, scalable AI use cases and a “Lego block” approach Common challenges in scaling AI solutions, including user adoption, integration, and data quality Measuring ROI for AI projects and ensuring cross-functional collaboration Avoiding “pilot paralysis” and moving from proof-of-concept to enterprise scale global.hitachi-solutions.com
AI is radically changing the future of the workplace — from redefining jobs to fueling the rise of so-called “work slop.” Live on stage at the Masters of Scale Summit in San Francisco, host Bob Safian is joined by Box CEO Aaron Levie, LinkedIn's Chief Economic Opportunity Officer Aneesh Raman, and Meta's Head of Business AI Clara Shih to share their insider perspectives on AI optimism, uncertainty, and navigating this unprecedented era. The panelists also take audience questions from an executive at IBM's Institute for Business Value and the Chancellor of Vanderbilt University, and reveal the habits and leadership traits that will matter most in this daunting yet exciting transition.Visit the Rapid Response website here: https://www.rapidresponseshow.com/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
I know you're out there. The developer who watches their colleagues enthusiastically embrace Claude Code and Cursor, having AI write entire feature sets while you proudly type every semicolon by hand. The founder who sees AI-generated code as a ticking time bomb of bugs and security vulnerabilities. The software entrepreneur who believes that real code comes from human minds, not language models.This one's for you.This episode of The Bootstraped Founder is sponsored by Paddle.comYou'll find the Black Friday Guide here: https://www.paddle.com/learn/grow-beyond-black-fridayThe blog post: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/ai-for-the-code-writing-purist-how-to-use-ai-without-surrendering-your-keyboard/The podcast episode: https://tbf.fm/episodes/420-ai-for-the-code-writing-purist-how-to-use-ai-without-surrendering-your-keyboardCheck out Podscan, the Podcast database that transcribes every podcast episode out there minutes after it gets released: https://podscan.fmSend me a voicemail on Podline: https://podline.fm/arvidYou'll find my weekly article on my blog: https://thebootstrappedfounder.comPodcast: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/podcastNewsletter: https://thebootstrappedfounder.com/newsletterMy book Zero to Sold: https://zerotosold.com/My book The Embedded Entrepreneur: https://embeddedentrepreneur.com/My course Find Your Following: https://findyourfollowing.comHere are a few tools I use. Using my affiliate links will support my work at no additional cost to you.- Notion (which I use to organize, write, coordinate, and archive my podcast + newsletter): https://affiliate.notion.so/465mv1536drx- Riverside.fm (that's what I recorded this episode with): https://riverside.fm/?via=arvid- TweetHunter (for speedy scheduling and writing Tweets): http://tweethunter.io/?via=arvid- HypeFury (for massive Twitter analytics and scheduling): https://hypefury.com/?via=arvid60- AudioPen (for taking voice notes and getting amazing summaries): https://audiopen.ai/?aff=PXErZ- Descript (for word-based video editing, subtitles, and clips): https://www.descript.com/?lmref=3cf39Q- ConvertKit (for email lists, newsletters, even finding sponsors): https://convertkit.com?lmref=bN9CZw
Send us a textIn this episode of UX Leadership by Design, Mark Baldino sits down with Sara Fortier, CEO and founder of Outwitly, a UX talent solutions firm that evolved from a UX consultancy into a staffing partner for UX, research, and service design teams.Sara shares her journey from agency consulting to UX staffing, explaining how shifting market dynamics, including digital transformation, AI disruption, and the rise of the blended workforce, led to her firm's transformation. She and Mark discuss the traits that make contract designers successful, how leaders can better manage mixed teams, and the growing pressure for design teams to align with business outcomes.Sara also offers practical advice for designers at every level—on building trust, navigating uncertainty, and developing the soft skills and business fluency necessary for long-term career success.Key TakeawaysPivoting with Purpose: Outwitly's shift from UX consulting to staffing wasn't just reactive—it was strategic. Sara shares how market demand, revenue signals, and hard-earned confidence drove the transition.Blended Teams Work—With the Right Talent: Contract designers can provide speed, flexibility, and specialization—but only when they bring seniority, stakeholder savvy, and initiative. Soft skills are non-negotiable.Leadership Is Getting Pulled in Every Direction: Today's UX leaders are balancing emotional support for their teams, pressure from execs on AI, and increasing demands to prove business value—all while staying current themselves.Designers Must Embrace Business Fluency: Career longevity increasingly depends on understanding how design impacts revenue, costs, and KPIs. Designers need to connect their work to strategic business drivers.Trust Is Built Through the Basics: Responding to emails, sending updates, raising risks early—these are simple but critical practices that build stakeholder trust and create long-term credibility.Relationships = Resilience: Strong networks and internal relationship-building help designers navigate layoffs, transitions, and career pivots. Build trust across teams, not just within design.Chapters00:00 – Intro & Guest Welcome01:30 – From Industrial Design to UX Leadership05:15 – The Pivot to UX Staffing09:45 – What's Driving the Rise in Contract UX Talent?12:40 – What Makes a Great Contractor?15:40 – The Pressure on Design Leaders21:30 – Career Longevity in UX: Advice for DesignersResources & LinksConnect with Sara on LinkedIn Connect with Mark on LinkedIn Fuzzy Math - B2B & Enterprise UX Design Consultancy
In this candid and insightful episode, Tyler Chisholm is joined by Barry Po—CEO of Brilliant and a veteran of mCloud and HSBC—to talk about what AI really means for business leaders today. Far from the hype, Barry focuses on clarity, strategy, and the courage it takes to lead meaningful change. Together, they explore why organizations need to rethink complexity, stop chasing “AI theater,” and instead focus on embedding innovation into the fabric of their operations. For leaders navigating the early or messy middle stages of AI adoption, this episode is full of practical insights—from building data readiness to avoiding the trap of pilot purgatory. Whether you're leading a legacy company or scaling something new, Barry makes the case for bold, human-centered transformation—and explains why the most innovative move might be simply asking better questions.In this episode:What AI *really* means for business operationsThe myth of “newness” and the long road to today's AI momentWhy adding AI to a broken process just creates a faster broken processReducing organizational complexity as a strategic imperativeThe importance of data readiness and avoiding “pilot purgatory”AI theater vs. real transformationWhat leaders need to ask before bringing AI into their businessThe role of courage, skepticism, and bias in successful innovationWestern Canada's unique opportunity to lead in industrial AIWisdom Bombs:“If you take a broken process and you add AI to it, the best you're going to do is make it slightly faster.” - Barry Po“I like to talk about AI like it's a fabric inside an organization. It's woven into your business.” - Barry Po“Real innovation doesn't happen incrementally. It happens when you take the leap.” - Barry PoThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We're on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that's amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler's website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Barry Po's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-poBrilliant's Website: https://www.brilliantdigi.comBrilliant's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brilliantdigi/Collisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing
Wie nutzt eine Airline Daten, um jeden Tag tausende Flüge zu steuern, Verspätungen zu vermeiden und den Betrieb effizienter zu machen? Darüber spricht Jonas Rashedi in dieser Folge von MY DATA IS BETTER THAN YOURS mit Jens Wiesner, Head of Data, Analytics and IT-Architecture bei Lufthansa Airlines. Jens erklärt, warum Realtime-Daten der Schlüssel zu operativer Exzellenz sind – und wie sein Team dafür sorgt, dass die richtigen Informationen genau dann verfügbar sind, wenn sie gebraucht werden. Ein Highlight: Der Einsatz von KI-Kameras auf dem Vorfeld, die in Echtzeit erkennen, ob ein Catering-Truck andockt, das Gepäck ausgeladen wird oder ein Flugzeug bereit zum Abflug ist. Das Gespräch zeigt, wie Lufthansa Airlines Datenarchitektur, IT-Governance und Business-Needs in Einklang bringt – und warum Technologie immer nur so stark ist wie die Kultur dahinter. Zum Schluss gibt Jens noch einen Einblick, wie Gen AI-Use Cases entstehen, wie Mitarbeitende darauf vorbereitet werden und was andere Branchen davon lernen können. MY DATA IS BETTER THAN YOURS ist ein Projekt von BETTER THAN YOURS, der Marke für richtig gute Podcasts. Zum LinkedIn-Profil von Jens: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jens-wiesner-4494b3186/ Zur Webseite von Lufthansa Airlines: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lufthansa/ Zu allen wichtigen Links rund um Jonas und den Podcast: https://linktr.ee/jonas.rashedi Zeitstempel: 00:00 Intro und Begrüßung 00:01:03 Vorstellung Jens 00:02:30 Team und Aufgaben 00:04:00 Realtime-Use Cases 00:06:50 Echtzeit-Entscheidungen 00:09:00 Architektur und Resilienz 00:11:30 Priorisierung von use Cases 00:13:53 Use-Case-Findung und Workshops 00:18:30 Zentral vs. dezentral 00:21:00 AI Use Cases auf dem Vorfeld 00:24:00 Proaktive Steuerung durch Realtime 00:26:00 Business Value als Kriterium 00:29:49 Schulungen und Awareness 00:31:00 Learnings für andere Branchen 00:38:46 Private Datennutzung & Serienmoment
people | purpose | profit kurz #pHoch3, damit dein Unternehmen nachhaltig erfolgreich ist.
In dieser Episode spreche ich mit Clemens Prerovsky, Geschäftsführer der APA IT, dem Technologie-Rückgrat der österreichischen Nachrichtenagentur APA und Spezialist für IT-Lösungen im Medienumfeld.Clemens erzählt mir, warum sie für die Personenerkennung eine eigene, hochperformante Lösung auf Basis von Open Source gebaut haben warum "Trusted AI" und Datensouveränität im Journalismus keine Buzzwords, sondern Geschäftsmodell sindwie KI-Lektorat, semantische Bildsuche und automatisierte Content-Anreicherung die redaktionelle Arbeit verändernWir sprechen über den Unterschied zwischen KI-Hype und echtem Business Value, warum die Frage "Welches Problem lösen wir?" vor der Technologiewahl kommen muss, und darüber, warum man ohne tiefes Systemverständnis beim ersten Ausfall ein massives Problem hat.60 Minuten, die sich lohnen, denn es ist ein Gespräch über pragmatische KI-Einführung, über den Spagat zwischen Innovation und Betriebsstabilität, und darüber, wie man KI-Lösungen entwickelt, die tatsächlich genutzt werden.Hier geht's zum LinkedIn-Profil von Clemens: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cprerovsky/Die Webseite der APA-IT: https://apa.at/about/apa-tech/Die KI-Tools, die bei der APA im Einsatz sind: https://apa.at/produkt/ki-tools/______________________________________Wenn dir mein Podcast und diese Episode gefällt, hinterlass mir gerne eine Bewertung auf Spotify oder Apple Podcasts. Damit hilfst du, dass noch mehr Menschen den Weg zu einer menschenorientierten, zukunftsfähigen Arbeitswelt finden.Danke im Voraus für deine Unterstützung. ______________________________________Sind wir schon auf LinkedIn vernetzt? Hier geht es zu meinem Profil.Meine Website: https://claudiahuempel.com/Du hast Probleme, die passenden Mitarbeitenden zu finden oder zu halten?Buch dir dein 30-minütiges Recruiting-Sparring mit mir - gratis, aber nicht umsonst. _____________________________________Ich freue mich über Feedback, Fragen und Themenvorschläge von dir.Bitte per Mail an pHoch3@claudiahuempel.com. Du möchtest dein Unternehmen als großartigen Arbeitgeber im #pHoch3-Podcast vorstellen oder mit deiner Expertise mein Gast sein? Bewirb dich per Mail an pHoch3@claudiahuempel.com.
User-generated content isn't new, but it's evolving fast. In this episode, we go beyond the buzz to explore what UGC really means in 2025 and how it's reshaping brand strategy. Together with Paulina Johnson, UGC Specialist and a creator herself, we break down how UGC differs from influencer marketing, how brands are using it strategically, and what it takes to make it work in practice — from both sides of the equation. Tune in to learn: How UGC evolved from “authentic content” to a proven growth driver The difference between UGC, IGC, CGC, and EGC - and when to use which Why the strongest brands combine influencer marketing and UGC What KPIs really matter - and how to measure success beyond engagement How to build a UGC strategy that scales without losing authenticity Tune in to learn why UGC isn't just a creative trend, but a strategic lever for brands that want to stay relevant.
In this episode, Carlos Gonzalez de Villaumbrosia sits down with Meredith Brown, SVP and GM of Trailhead at Salesforce, the global CRM leader trusted by over 150,000 enterprises and powering customer success for the world's most influential brands. Meredith, a former Chief Product Officer turned product-led community builder, now leads Trailhead—the platform that has upskilled nearly 10 million learners worldwide—on a mission to shape the agentic enterprise era.A veteran product executive, Meredith shares how Salesforce is redefining workforce transformation through free, AI-driven learning and peer-to-peer community engagement. She explains how her team measures success not in revenue, but in customer adoption and ROI—bridging the gap between skilling, real-world application, and business value. From internal dashboards that track AI tool usage to gamified certifications like Agent Blazer Champion, Meredith reveals what it takes to drive enterprise-wide AI adoption at scale and sustain a true culture of continuous learning.What you'll learn:How Salesforce is preparing every employee—and customer—for the agentic enterprise.The metrics and dashboards that connect AI adoption to business impact.Why community-led learning drives faster enterprise transformation than traditional training.How to create scalable, human-centered AI upskilling programs in your own organization.Key TakeawaysAI Transformation at Scale: Salesforce's playbook for skilling millions through Trailhead.Adoption Meets ROI: How AI literacy translates into measurable customer success.The Future is Agentic: Why the next frontier of product leadership blends human creativity with AI collaboration.Social Links:- Follow our Podcast on Tik Tok here- Follow Product School on LinkedIn here- Join Product School's free events here- Find out more about Product School hereCredits:Host: Carlos Gonzalez de VillaumbrosiaGuest: Meredith Brown
In this episode, Brendon Dennewill sits down with Scott Litman, SVP at Capacity and founder of Lucy AI (acquired by Capacity in 2024), to explore the reality behind AI adoption in enterprise organizations. Scott brings over 25 years of digital transformation experience and shares insights from guiding Lucy's integration into Capacity's AI platform, which now serves over 2,500 companies. The conversation cuts through AI hype to reveal why 95% of enterprise AI projects haven't reached production and what separates successful AI implementations from failed proof-of-concepts.Litman emphasizes that while individual users have incredible AI superpowers at their fingertips, enterprise adoption faces unique challenges. He advocates for treating AI as automation rather than magic, focusing on solving specific business problems through strategic problem selection and rigorous testing. This episode is essential for RevOps professionals, enterprise leaders, and B2B growth teams who need practical guidance on moving from AI experimentation to production-ready solutions that deliver measurable business outcomes.What You'll LearnWhy enterprise AI adoption lags: Limited, sensitive data that demands unique methods and strict security.POC vs. production: Scaling to enterprise-grade solutions requires testing, governance, and disciplineChoosing the right problems: Target inefficient, error-prone, or time-consuming tasks Framework for adoption: Begin with clear policies, targeted training, and a focus on automation to set realistic expectations.Driving user adoption: Offer persona-based training that solves real pain pointsAutomation over hype: Treat AI like prior digital transformations—speed of execution matters more than novelty.Training and change management: Bridge skill gaps and standardize successResources Mentioned• EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System)• HubSpot Inbound 2025• MIT Enterprise AI Report • Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service• Anthropic Claude About Scott Littman, SVP at CapacityIs your business ready to scale? Take the Growth Readiness Score to find out. In 5 minutes, you'll see: Benchmark data showing how you stack up to other organizations A clear view of your operational maturity Whether your business is ready to scale (and what to do next if it's not) Let's Connect Subscribe to the RevOps Champions Newsletter LinkedIn YouTube Explore the show at revopschampions.com. Ready to unite your teams with RevOps strategies that eliminate costly silos and drive growth? Let's talk!
In this episode, Patti Brennan and Eric Fuhrman break down the Value Acceleration Methodology they recently learned through the CEPA program. They share why most businesses don't sell for what owners expect, the critical role of intangibles like culture and customer relationships, and how business owners can unlock massive value by de-risking their companies. Whether you're a business owner, employee, or stakeholder, this conversation offers powerful insights into building long-term enterprise value.
In this episode of Poised for Exit, we sit down with Heather Polivka, Founder and CEO of Awesome People Leaders, to explore how leadership, culture, and emotional intelligence drive real business value.Heather shares how her firm helps organizations close leadership gaps, reduce disengagement, and elevate team performance. At the center of our conversation is Awesome EQ, a new AI-powered tool that delivers real-time coaching prompts inside everyday platforms like Outlook, Gmail, and Slack. The tool helps leaders build trust, communicate more effectively, and strengthen team dynamics in the moment.Our discussion touches on why emotional intelligence is such a critical predictor of success, how real-time insights prevent miscommunication and boost retention, and the ways companies have gone through acquisitions without losing key talent. Heather also outlines a three-year roadmap for developing leadership capacity, strengthening culture, and positioning a business for greater value at exit.She emphasizes that in an AI-driven world, the human element becomes even more critical. By combining neuroscience, EQ, and technology, leaders can unlock higher performance while safeguarding company culture and long-term value.Connect with Heather on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherpolivka/Follow Awesome People Leaders on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/awesome-people-leadersVisit awesomepeopleleaders.com to learn morehttps://www.awesomepeopleleaders.com/ Connect with Julie Keyes, Keyestrategies LLCFounder, Consultant, Author, Pod-caster and Instructor
In modern businesses, your data is your value. This is not a new concept, but it can be a struggle to understand where to start when it comes to harnessing your data effectively.Unstructured data, which can be generated in massive quantities before it ever produces value, can be especially difficult to handle. But if this task is completed correctly, businesses can future-proof their operations and lay the groundwork for future AI deployments.What solutions are available to turn unstructured data into machine-readable content? And how does this feed into implementing in-demand tools such as AI agents?In this special edition of the ITPro Podcast, in association with Hyland, Rory and John explore how businesses can harness their structured and unstructured data to generate value and enable AI tools.Read more:Structured vs unstructured data managementA quarter of firms still don't have a formal data strategy – and it's hampering AI adoptionData quality worries are holding back AI adoption among manufacturers, despite optimism over its growth potentialAI is causing a data storage crisis for enterprises
In this episode of The Franchise Woman podcast, hosts Rebecca Monet and Tracy Kawa welcome Jessica Fialkovich, founder of Exit Factor, bestselling author, and expert in business exit strategy. Jessica shares why selling a business is not just a transaction—it's a process that requires emotional readiness, financial preparation, and strategic planning. Drawing from her experience owning, operating, and selling multiple businesses, Jessica founded Exit Factor to help owners avoid common pitfalls and build companies that are ready for acquisition.
Send us a textIn episode 273 of Beyond The Story, Sebastian Rusk interviews Jason Alan Bohrer, a member of Dan Martell's elite mastermind, to discuss his journey of resilience and the creation of the Mastery Framework. Jason shares how surviving a life-threatening health crisis and a long recovery shaped his path forward.Tune in to discover where it all began for Jason and how his experiences shaped his path today.TIMESTAMPS[00:02:01] Brain injury and recovery journey.[00:06:09] Taking the next step.[00:10:04] Taking the next small step.[00:12:12] Trusting internal guidance.[00:16:26] Business exit strategies.[00:20:22] Take the next step.QUOTESWe need to stop lying to ourselves so we can lead ourselves." -Jason Alan Bohrer"For me, it was really learning to trust myself and to listen to what my own body was telling me." -Jason Alan Bohrer"To exit with certainty, to profit with purpose, and to really walk away wealthy." -Jason Alan Bohrer==========================Need help launching your podcast?Schedule a Free Podcast Strategy Call TODAY!PodcastLaunchLabNow.com==========================SOCIAL MEDIA LINKSSebastian RuskInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/podcastlaunchlab/Facebook: Facebook.com/sruskLinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sebastianrusk/YouTube: Youtube.com/@PodcastLaunchLabJason Alan BohrerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonalanbohrer/ X: https://x.com/jasonalanbohrer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasonalanbohrer/ WEBSITEJason Alan Bohrer: https://jasonalanbohrer.com/ ==========================Take the quiz now! https://podcastquiz.online/==========================Need Money For Your Business? Our Friends at Closer Capital can help! Click here for more info: PodcastsSUCK.com/money==========================PAYING RENT? Earn airlines when you do with the Bilt Rewards MastercardAPPLY HERE: https://bilt.page/r/2H93-5474
In dieser Episode tauchen Marc Löffler und sein Gast, Tim Klein von den Produktwerkern, tief in das Thema Backlog-Priorisierung und Business Value ein. Tim, beleuchtet, warum der Wert eines Backlog-Items nicht nur eine Frage des Bauchgefühls ist, sondern eine solide strategische Grundlage erfordert. Tim erklärt, wie fehlende Visionen und Strategien zu ineffizienten Sprint Backlogs führen und warum agile Teams oft wie eine "Flipperkugel" hin- und hergeworfen werden. Marc und Tim diskutieren praktische Ansätze, um aus dem Teufelskreis der ziellosen Priorisierung auszubrechen: Produktprinzipien: Ein leichtgewichtiges Framework, das dir hilft, den Entscheidungsrahmen für dein Team zu schaffen. Tim erläutert, wie diese Prinzipien, ähnlich dem agilen Manifest, bei Abwägungsentscheidungen unterstützen – zum Beispiel, ob Datenschutz wichtiger ist als Performance. Wirkungsorientierte Sprintziele: Statt eine Liste von Aufgaben zu erstellen, fokussierst du dich auf den "Outcome". Ein gutes Sprintziel beschreibt, welche Wirkung dein Team mit dem Sprint erzielen will, was es für die User oder das Unternehmen verbessert und bietet so einen klaren Nordstern für die tägliche Arbeit. Marc betont die Wichtigkeit dieses Ziels für das Selbstmanagement der Entwickler. Daily Scrum als Kompass: Das Daily Scrum ist mehr als ein Status-Meeting. Es ist der tägliche Check-in, um zu sehen, wie das Team dem Sprintziel näher kommt. Beide betonen, wie der Fokus auf das Sprintziel die Effektivität des Dailys drastisch steigert und verschwendete Zeit vermeidet.
Send us a textWhat happens when you strip commerce down to its essence? In this thought-provoking conversation between industry veterans, we explore the fundamental truth that all business boils down to two people exchanging value—and everything else is just overhead.Steve Clegg opens with a powerful framework: the economy only functions through human exchange, yet we've built towering hierarchies of "rent-seekers" atop these simple transactions. Through cryptocurrency and AI, he envisions a future where these layers disappear, returning power to buyers and sellers. His work with Zentoro has achieved remarkable 98% accuracy in predicting customer retention through transaction patterns, revealing that frequency matters far more than transaction value.Venky Lakshminarayanan brings his expertise in value management, describing it as "orchestrating business functions to maximize customer value." He challenges listeners to question whether they truly understand what problems they're solving for customers. His insights on how value differs between enterprises (revenue, profits) and individuals (recognition, quality of life) provide a framework for aligning business objectives with human needs.Nick Mavrick from Built Data completes the picture by exposing how poorly most organizations support their field personnel with actionable market intelligence. He describes a world where salespeople lack basic knowledge about customer prioritization and market coverage, resulting in missed opportunities and frustration on both sides of the transaction.Among the most practical revelations is the "50-50 rule"—research showing that conversations where both parties speak equally are dramatically more likely to result in action. This golden ratio applies whether you're a doctor with patients, a manager with employees, or a salesperson with customers.The discussion also touches on the legacy burden of enterprise systems like CRMs, which have become expensive obstacles rather than value creators. As AI enables more agile alternatives at a fraction of the cost, businesses face a critical decision point: continue with systems that deliver poor ROI, or embrace transformation?Whether you're reconsidering your business model, evaluating technology investments, or simply trying to better understand customer behavior, this conversation offers clarity on what truly drives successful commerce in today's complex environment. Visit us at LearningWithoutScars.org for more training solutions for Equipment Dealerships - Construction, Mining, Agriculture, Cranes, Trucks and Trailers.We provide comprehensive online learning programs for employees starting with an individualized skills assessment to a personalized employee development program designed for their skill level.
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.
What do you do when everyone loves your product but no one's paying for it? That was the challenge facing Beautiful.ai. Founder Mitch Grasso nailed the product, but to build a sustainable business, he brought in operator Jason Lapp as CEO. In this conversation, Jason shares how Beautiful.ai killed its freemium tier, introduced a credit-card-gated trial without losing momentum, and learned to serve both self-serve and enterprise customers at the same time. He also explains how to listen to customer feedback without becoming a feature factory, and why non-technical founders shouldn't try to know everything about the tech stack. If you're a founder wondering when to put up a paywall — or how to balance PLG with enterprise sales — here's a playbook. RUNTIME 46:20 EPISODE BREAKDOWN (3:35) “ The timing of us coming together was really fortuitous for beautiful because he had already built the first version of beautiful and put it in market.” (6:28) “ Microsoft and Google report that there's close to a billion people that use presentation software on a monthly basis.” (10:51) “ At a certain point after getting in market, you start to get a different set of signal.” (14:52) The free trial period is a great opportunity to learn about what customers value most. (19:56) Leverage “emotional” feedback to improve the customer experience. (23:46) “ We do have a guiding principle, which is: on the customer side, we generally don't build for one customer need.” (26:17) Beautiful.ai uses NPS surveys to gather feedback from enterprise and individual users. (28:49) Since pivoting to paid, they have separate teams for enterprise and individual customers. (23:02) “ We think about an ICP, and then we think about an IECP, meaning the enterprise as a whole.” (33:57) Capturing behavioral and attitudinal data to understand customer behavior. (37:18) How the broader rise of generative AI has influenced GTM strategy. (42:33) Jason shares some advice for non-technical CEOs. LINKS Jason Lapp Beautiful.ai AI Isn't Coming For Jobs, It's Coming For Inefficiency Continuous Discovery Habits: Discover Products that Create Customer Value and Business Value, Teresa Torres Everything You Need to Know About Freemium Pricing, Kyle Poyar, OpenView Partners SUBSCRIBE
Gary Miller, Executive Vice President and Customer Success Officer, Oracle, talks to Bob Evans about how Oracle is helping customers navigate their AI journeys — whether they're just starting out or scaling enterprise-wide adoption. He shares how Oracle is embedding AI across its entire technology stack, aligning partner and customer success strategies, and empowering organizations through tools like Cloud Success Navigator, Innovation Studios, and democratized AI training to deliver real, measurable business value.AI-Powered Customer WinsThe Big Themes:Embedding AI Across the Entire Stack: Oracle is not just adding AI as a feature — it's fundamentally integrating AI into its entire technology stack. Gary Miller notes that many customers are surprised to discover that large language models are being trained and deployed on OCI, and that hundreds of AI capabilities are embedded directly into Fusion Applications and Oracle Database. Once customers understand this depth of integration, they quickly shift from curiosity to action, asking for guidance on how to adopt AI now, what use cases to prioritize, and how to define success.Cloud Success Navigator Is Central to AI Adoption Strategy: The Oracle Cloud Success Navigator has emerged as a pivotal tool for AI and cloud adoption. What started as a promise in a previous conversation is now a robust, free digital platform that helps customers and partners create innovation roadmaps, prioritize features, and accelerate time to value. With over 6,000 customers and 235 partners using the platform since March, the tool enables organizations to track over 11,000 adopted features — including 450 AI-specific ones.AI World 2025 Will Spotlight Real Customer Outcomes: At the upcoming AI World 2025 event, Oracle plans to go beyond product announcements to highlight customer success stories. Miller will host a keynote titled “Bold Outcomes,” featuring innovative customers and partners sharing their journeys. Oracle is also gamifying the learning experience with “AI Industry Adventure,” a theme-park-style game in Customer Success Central. Attendees will solve real-world industry challenges using Oracle Cloud AI solutions, making learning both interactive and fun.The Big Quote: “Customers are often unaware of how Oracle has embedded AI capabilities across the whole stack. Once they understand that, then they ask us for expert guidance on how best to achieve their transformation goals using Oracle AI solutions. I had one CEO, he said, after he saw this, he said, 'Well, don't let us fumble around in the dark looking for value. You know, where it is, point us there.' And so they asked, how can I start adopting AI in my current environment? . . . How do I define AI, success metrics, and realize AI value? That's the key thing."More from Gary Miller and Oracle:Connect with Gary Miller on LinkedIn or learn more about Oracle and AI. Visit Cloud Wars for more.
In this episode of Inside SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Yannick Peterschmitt welcomes SAP veteran Mickaël Quesnot to decode the ERP transformation journey for finance leaders. Discover why legacy systems are liabilities, how unified architecture eliminates reconciliation, and what role AI and Joule play in shaping autonomous finance. With powerful analogies and 25 years of experience, Mickaël offers a strategic roadmap for CFOs navigating digitalization. Are you building a future-ready finance engine or patching together outdated parts? What topic would you like us to discuss next? Send an email to insides4@sap.com
Do you really know what makes your business valuable to buyers? Would your company attract the right buyer if you tried to sell today?In this episode of The Business Ownership Podcast I interviewed Tristan Tahmaseb. Tristan Tahmaseb is a Director at ButcherJoseph & Co. He helps founder- and family-owned businesses navigate complex ownership transitions, from M&A to ESOPs and recapitalizations. With over $2 billion in advised transaction value, he's known for pairing technical expertise with a passion for legacy-driven succession planning. Tristan is an advocate for broad-based employee ownership and serves on the Finance Advisory Committee for The ESOP Association. Named an “Investment Banker to Watch” by Middle Market Growth, he's a Harvard graduate and a former collegiate football player, bringing both strategic insight and competitive drive to every deal. If you've ever thought about selling—or just want to know what buyers really care about—this episode is for you.Learn how to maximize your business value. Check this out!Show Links:Tristan Tahmaseb on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristan-tahmaseb/ButcherJoseph & Co. Website: https://butcherjoseph.com/Book a call with Michelle: https://go.appointmentcore.com/book/IcFD4cGJoin our Facebook group for business owners to get help or help other business owners!The Business Ownership Group - Secrets to Scaling: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessownershipsecretstoscalingLooking to scale your business? Get free gifts here to help you on your way: https://www.awarenessstrategies.com/
Marketers' roles are changing, but their goals are still the same: reach and engage customers, meeting them where they are, and for better or worse, often needing to do more with less while delivering greater value. Agility requires both adapting to change quickly while also having the wisdom to know which changes truly matter. It demands a delicate balance between embracing new technologies and staying laser-focused on core business objectives. Today, we are here in New York City at Opticon25. We are going to talk about the growing role of AI for both marketers and consumers, how organizations can leverage an agentic platform to create better internal and external customer experiences, and how marketers can both do more with less while delivering exponentially greater value. To help me discuss this topic, I'd like to welcome Rupali Jain, Chief Product Officer and Kevin Li, SVP Product at Optimizely. About Rupali JainRupali Jain is the Chief Product Officer at Optimizely. Previously she has held product leadership roles at several SaaS software companies, including Microsoft's PowerBI and Qualtrics. Throughout her two-decade career, Rupali has shared Optimizely's vision of prioritizing the end user's daily needs. Rupali is committed to advancing practical, growth-driving applications of AI and machine learning to help marketers take control of their workflows, experiment at scale, and deliver digital experiences that meet and exceed customer expectations Rupali Jain on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rupali/ About Kevin LiAt Optimizely (previously Episerver before rebrand), I describe my job as a "tale of two mirrors" with one being a telescope and one being a microscope. On the telescope side of product strategy, I own long-term strategy covering build/buy/partner, M&A (thesis, due diligence, etc.), new product launches (SaaS CMS, Personalization, etc.), analyst relations (leader in 11 categories across Gartner, Forrester, and IDC), etc. On the microscope side of product operations, I own the product commercialization process, product operations, product analytics, documentation, and competitive intelligence. Kevin Li on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinsyli/ Resources Optimizely: https://www.optimizely.com The Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnow Don't Miss MAICON 2025, October 14-16 in Cleveland - the event bringing together the brights minds and leading voices in AI. Use Code AGILE150 for $150 off registration. Go here to register: https://bit.ly/agile150 Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.com The Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company
In this episode of the Dream Huge Podcast, host Pete Peterson speaks with Marc Adams, founder of Acquisitions4you, about the critical importance of business valuation and exit planning. Marc shares insights on how most business owners are unprepared for selling their businesses, leading to significant financial losses. He discusses his personal journey through health challenges and how it inspired him to help others maximize their business value. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper business structure, tax planning, and running a business with an exit strategy in mind. Marc also introduces innovative solutions to help business owners retain more of their wealth and avoid common pitfalls when selling their businesses. Takeaways 98% of business owners haven't done any prep for selling. Planning should start now, not later. Health challenges can lead to new perspectives on business. Proper business structure can save significant tax costs. Running a business with an exit strategy is crucial. Many owners lose up to 50% of their business value when selling. Innovative solutions can help double business value. Business owners need to be proactive about their financial planning. The importance of protecting one's wealth is often overlooked. Marc's mission is to help business owners retain their wealth.
This is Part 2 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. Steve explains why profit doesn't protect a business from failure and why free cash flow is the real survival metric. He breaks down how to calculate free cash flow, why it matters more than revenue or profit, and how companies with strong cash flow thrive in any economy.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com
Kaveri Camire, the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of DXC Technologies, to delve into the multifaceted world of B2B marketing. Kaveri shares her impressive 20-year career journey at IBM and the significant transition to her current role. The conversation explores various themes, including brand positioning, international marketing, corporate culture, and the adoption of AI in marketing strategies. Kaveri emphasises the importance of building personal and professional narratives and how that helps frame new market categories. The discussion covers her hands-on approach to team building, the challenges of navigating large organisations, and her methodologies for driving growth and innovation through data-driven decisions. Kaveri also touches upon notable client partnerships, the intrinsic value of human connection in business, and the power of effective storytelling. 05:00 Lessons from IBM: Innovation, Global Operations, and Market Categories 08:30 Kaveri's Role at DXC Technologies: Brand Positioning and Growth10:00 Navigating Large Organizations: The Power of Humility and Networking 14:50 Experimentation in Marketing: Start Small and Scale 18:30 The Importance of Face-to-Face Meetings: Learning from Global Teams 22:50 Getting to Know the Company: Aligning with Sales and Offering Leaders 28:30 Customer Relationship Management: Listening and Innovating [30:00] Real-world Applications: Success Stories with Key Clients 36:00 Business Value of Sponsorships: Client-led Value in Partnerships 42:02 Strategic partnerships and sponsorships45:38 Challenges and advice for CMOsDon't forget to like, share, and subscribe to help us reach a wider audience! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this solo episode of the Savvy Dentist Podcast, Dr Jesse Green unpacks a crucial but often overlooked topic for practice owners - how to create, grow, and maximise business value in your dental business.Whether you plan to sell your practice one day or simply want to secure long-term wealth and resilience, building business value goes beyond day-to-day revenue. Jesse explores how to strengthen repeatable, sustainable earnings, manage risk, and ultimately build a dental practice that thrives well into the future.You'll discover practical strategies to plug profit leaks, de-risk your income streams, and grow with confidence so you can enjoy greater peace of mind and maximise the return on all the time, energy, and capital you've invested.In this episode:[02:00] The two ways practice owners are financially rewarded — income vs asset value[03:07] Why repeatable, sustainable earnings are the bedrock of enterprise value[05:16] Three revenue levers that compound growth in your practice[07:01] The trap of being the primary revenue generator (and how to shift gears)[09:42] Why key-person dependent services (like “All-on-4”) can reduce valuation[10:52] The importance of managing costs, cash flow, and waste to protect earnings[12:28] How predictable growth builds buyer confidence [14:44] Managing external vs controllable risks (and the biggest one you must address)[16:14] De-risking your practice from single point sensitivities [20:41] Why diversifying patient flow is critical for sovereignty in your business.Join the free Savvy Dentist Facebook GroupFollow Dr Jesse Green on LinkedInVisit Savvy Dentist websiteMentioned in this episode:Mid Roll Ad PM Masterclass 2025Click on the link below to find out more about the Practice Manager Masterclass here. PM-Masterclass Sept 25
This is Part 2 of Steve Coughran's book Cash Flow. In this section, Steve explains why profit doesn't protect a business from failure and why free cash flow is the real survival metric. He breaks down how to calculate free cash flow, why it matters more than revenue or profit, and how companies with strong cash flow thrive in any economy.LinkedIn | YouTube coltivar.com/byfiq
In This Episode This week on Breaking Banks we're continuing our series on Brett King's new book, Branch Tomorrow. We feature interviews with some of Brett's contributing authors: Bruno Diniz, Efi Pylarinou, Jim Marous, Paolo Sironi, and Richard Turrin. Each author brings specialty in different markets giving Branch Tomorrow a multi-perspective look at banking, banking culture, changes in 'branching' and the future of financial services across the globe, from the US to India, China, and Latin America. In this episode, Brett speaks with Richard Turrin, an industry leader in fintech innovation and digital transformation, and Author of Cashless: China's Digital Currency. Brett and Richard delve into the robust digital financial services landscape in China which experienced significant digital disruption starting in the mid-2010s. You'll hear how bankers there are still reeling from the unprecedented scale of disruption brought on by MYbank, WeBank, WeChat and Alipay. Then, Brett connects with Paolo Sironi, Global Research Leader in Banking and Financial Markets at the IBM Institute for Business Value and host of Provoke.fm's Bankers Bookshelf podcast. Paolo shares insights from the Eurozone on branch transformation, highlighting how some European banks are embracing digitization by evolving their branches. He discusses how they are balancing digital and physical presence by adjusting their in-branch product offerings, with a focus on personalization, financial inclusion, and maintaining strong customer engagement. Tune in now for these insightful conversations! Branch Tomorrow, available mid-September, is an invaluable resource for bankers, regulators, fintech innovators, and future-focused leaders dedicated to thriving in the digital transformation of finance. The future of banking is here!
Check out the TIES Sales Showdown at www.tx.ag/TIESVisit The Sales Lab at https://thesaleslab.org and check out all our guests' recommended readings at https://thesaleslab.org/reading-listTo listen to The Sales Lab Podcast on your favorite apps, visit https://thesaleslab.simplecast.com/ and select your preferred method of listening.Connect with us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/saleslabpodcastConnect with us on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesaleslabSubscribe to The Sales Lab channel on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp703YWbD3-KO73NXUTBI-Q
We're certain you're experiencing this feeling as well - it's as if we're finally living in the world that was promised to us by science fiction movies. To be fair, AI has evolved into Artificial Intelligence that is indeed intelligent. While it lacks consciousness, the distinction between the two would be a topic for a separate conversation on another podcast. Today, I've invited Steve to assist app brands in understanding this complex landscape of Generative AI. Our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions about which AI tools to utilize, avoid common pitfalls, comprehend the skill sets your team requires, and more. Today's topics include: How to evaluate AI tools without getting lost in comparisons between models The most common mistake people make trying to integrate AI into their work Given AI influence, what skill sets development teams need to develop What role will "middle layer" tools play in AI adoption Advice to leaders trying to help their teams adapt to rapid AI changes Links and Resources: Steve Toy on LinkedIn Memrise website Business Of Apps - connecting the app industry Quotes from Steve Toy “You don't really care about the performance metrics of all the different models out there. What matters is whether it can do the job you need it to do well and effectively.” “The biggest mistake is not understanding the job to be done. If you just bring tools into your system without a clear goal, you end up as the proverbial hammer wandering around looking for a nail.” “Expertise is actually less important in this world. What separates those who succeed with AI from those who don't is perseverance — the willingness to go one more round” Host Business Of Apps - connecting the app industry since 2012
Thanks for listening! Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-contrarians-with-adam-and-adir-podcast Subscribe on YouTube for all our video content: https://https://www.youtube.com/@ContrariansPodcast Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/contrarianspod Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@contrarianspodSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Missed calls lead to customer frustration and lost revenue. Voice AI changes this. With voice AI, these missed opportunities can be transformed into meaningful conversations that build loyalty and drive growth. On the latest The Modern Customer Podcast, I had a conversation with @Carson Hostetter, EVP & GM of AI + CX at @RingCentral, about how companies are using voice AI to: ✅ Replace outdated IVR menus with human-like dialogue ✅ Protect revenue by ensuring no call is missed ✅ Turn conversations into proactive customer service and business growth Carson knows the stakes. As RingCentral's former CRO, he helped grow ARR from $1.4B to $2.4B and scaled its enterprise business from $5M to $500M. Now, he's applying that same growth mindset to AI.
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, Joe Curry starts with a tough question: Could your business be worth far less than you expect? Most business owners believe boosting sales and profits is the only way to grow business value. But that's only one piece of the puzzle. What You'll Learn: What the value gap really is and why it matters Why increasing revenue and profit isn't enough How factors like owner dependence, recurring revenue, and customer concentration affect your business value Joe shares practical tips on how to make your business less risky, more scalable, and ultimately more valuable even if you're not planning to sell anytime soon. Here's what you're in for: 00:00 Is Your Business Worth Less Than You Think? 01:20 Understanding the Value Gap 03:02 Key Drivers of Business Value 07:17 Practical Example Marketing Agency 09:21 Why Focusing on Value Matters 10:39 Conclusion and Key Takeaways —------------------------------------------------------------- ABOUT JOE CURRY Joe Curry is the host of Business and Exit Planning Simplified and the owner and lead financial planner at Matthews + Associates in Peterborough, Ontario. A Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, Joe is passionate about helping business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and find purpose beyond their business. His mission is to ensure clients retire with confidence—financially secure and personally fulfilled. You can reach out to Joe through: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curryjoe Website: https://www.retirementplanningsimplified.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/RetirementPlanningSimplified/ https://matthewsandassociates.ca/ ABOUT BUSINESS AND EXIT PLANNING SIMPLIFIED The Business and Exit Planning Simplified podcast offers clear, actionable guidance to help business owners maximize value, plan successful exits, and achieve financial freedom. Hosted by Joe Curry, a Certified Financial Planner and Certified Exit Planning Advisor, each episode delivers expert insights, real-life case studies, and practical strategies tailored for service-based entrepreneurs approaching retirement. The podcast empowers listeners to transition with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose. —------------------------------------------------------------- Disclaimer: Opinions expressed are those of Joseph Curry, a registrant of Aligned Capital Partners Inc. (ACPI), and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. This video is for informational purposes only and not intended to be personalized investment advice. The views expressed are opinions of Joseph Curry and may not necessarily be those of ACPI. Content is prepared for general circulation and information contained does not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any investment fund, security or other product or service.
Every time someone views your product content, it's a purposeful engagement with direct business value. Are you making the most of that interaction? In this episode of the Content Operations... Read more » The post Every click counts: Uncovering the business value of your product content appeared first on Scriptorium.
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch! In this episode, Roland Frasier and Richard Lindner take a look at the current trend of running businesses with ultra-lean teams, the role of AI in operational efficiency, and the real impact these choices have on business value and potential for acquisition. Whether you're a founder, operator, or executive looking to optimize your team, scale profitably, or prepare your business for sale, this episode is packed with insights on balancing technology, human capital, and long-term growth.Highlights:"It's a badge of honor to operate with as few people as possible.""If you're a lifestyle business, build a lifestyle business. If you're building to sell, you're selling the ability to execute.""Trying to be lean in customer support is usually to give poor customer support.""Small businesses that are overly lean are just not going to be as marketable as companies that have redundancies."Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction01:05 – The Lean Team Trend: Entrepreneurs and the new badge of honor02:44 – Three Business Models: Lifestyle, lean tech, and scalable teams05:49 – Technology as Amplifier: Roles for tech and humans08:13 – The Customer Support Cautionary Tale: $40M savings gone wrong12:16 – Human Touch in Customer Service: Why empathy matters15:45 – Transferable Value: The importance of cross-training and redundancy19:28 – Critical Roles for Lean, Profitable Companies: Finance, marketing, sales, and tech24:26 – Departmental Tech Specialists: Bridging humans and AI30:16 – Digital Marketer's AI Solutions: How to get started and who it's forCONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
In the second episode of Innovation Forum's podcast series on corporate readiness for the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), in collaboration with Deloitte & Touche LLP, we explore how companies can go further than ticking compliance boxes and instead use EUDR as a springboard for long-term business strategy. Ian Welsh is joined by John O'Brien, managing director at Deloitte & Touche LLP, to discuss how EUDR requirements can unlock new value. From building trust with consumers and de-risking supply chains to accessing new markets and premium pricing opportunities, they explore how aligning compliance efforts with broader sustainability goals can deliver competitive advantage. Key themes include: Why EUDR is more than a regulatory requirement The role of traceability and reliable data in understanding supply chain resilience How nature-related risks are evolving, and why businesses should prepare now What companies at different stages of readiness should prioritize next Whether you're just getting started with EUDR or are looking to build on existing systems, this episode offers strategic insights for transforming compliance into impact.
How has Infrastructure as Code changed in the last five years? Explore the key shifts and how to align your infrastructure to real business value.In this episode, Kief Morris, a Distinguished Infrastructure Engineer at Thoughtworks, returns to discuss the third edition of his book “Infrastructure as Code.” He shares fresh insights on designing and delivering dynamic systems for today's cloud-driven world. Kief explores the evolution of IaC, practical methods for modern teams, the next generation of tools, and lessons learned from the recent years. Learn how to align infrastructure with business needs and manage today's growing infrastructure complexities.Key topics discussed:How “Infrastructure as Code” book has evolved across three editionsWhy infrastructure decisions must align with business valueHow IaC and the toolchain have evolved over the last few yearsHandling the growing complexity of modern infrastructureThe rise of platform engineering and internal developer platformsTerraform vs. OpenTofu: which one should you use?Balancing governance, speed, and innovation in the cloud eraThe current limitations and role of AI in managing infrastructureTimestamps:(00:00) Trailer & Intro(02:39) Updates in the Last Five Years(04:13) Infrastructure as Code Definition(05:58) The Practice of Infrastructure as Code(06:32) The Differences Between the Book Editions(10:21) Aligning Infrastructure to the Business Value(15:03) Handling the Growing Infrastructure Complexities(19:10) The Tools and New Inventions in IAC(24:11) Terraform vs OpenTofu(27:38) Orchestrating Infrastructure Changes Using IAC(30:35) Platform Engineering(33:06) Internal Developer Platform Key Success Factor(37:15) Key Considerations of Building Teams with Infrastructure Skills(41:56) Infrastructure Compliance and Governance(45:53) Using AI for Infrastructure as Code(50:31) Using AI for Troubleshooting and Root Cause Analysis(51:50) 3 Tech Lead Wisdom_____Kief Morris's BioKief Morris is the author of the O'Reilly book Infrastructure as Code, and is a Distinguished Infrastructure Engineer at Thoughtworks, based in London. He works with clients and project teams around the world to explore, shape, and share better ways of working with cloud and infrastructure architecture.Kief started out as a developer and systems administrator in the dot-com boom days, then worked with a series of digital scaleups applying infrastructure automation before DevOps was a thing. He joined Thoughtworks in 2010 as the wider industry was discovering Infrastructure as Code, DevOps, and Cloud, which gave him the opportunity to bring what he had learned in the previous fifteen years to enterprise clients in many industries and many countries.He wrote the book Infrastructure as Code (now on the third edition) to share these ideas with a wider audience, which has given him a platform to meet and learn from an ever-growing variety of people and organizations.Follow Kief:LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/kiefmorrisTwitter – x.com/kiefBlueSky – bsky.app/profile/kief.comPersonal Website – kief.comInfra as Code Website – infrastructure-as-code.com Infrastructure as Code – https://www.oreilly.com/library/view/infrastructure-as-code/9781098150341/Like this episode?Show notes & transcript: techleadjournal.dev/episodes/227.Follow @techleadjournal on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.Buy me a coffee or become a patron.
For this episode, I spoke with Andrew Amann (@andrewamann), CEO of NineTwoThree AI Studio, an award-winning AI consulting and product development agency on how to prove ROI, avoid hype, and implement practical, value-driven AI. You can find more information about my guest on my blog at buckleyplanet.com/
In this episode of the Balancing Act Podcast, Andy talks with Ron Green, co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI, to explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence in business and personal growth. Ron shares his extensive experience in AI, discussing how it can solve previously intractable problems and enhance decision-making processes. The conversation emphasizes the importance of focusing on business value when implementing AI, overcoming resistance to change, and the future potential of AI technologies. Ron also highlights the significance of curiosity and continuous learning in adapting to the evolving landscape of AI. Tune into episode 204 to hear Ron's story, his rocket-booster moment, and his thoughts on the future of work and business in the age of artificial intelligence. andrewtemte.com
In this episode, Christian Rodwell welcomes Chris Spratling—seasoned entrepreneur, advisor, and author of “The Exit Roadmap: The Insider's Guide to Selling Your Business Profitably.” With over 30 years' experience in scaling, buying, and selling businesses, Chris shares vital insights on preparing for a successful business exit, maximising value, and planning for life beyond the sale.Key Topics & TakeawaysChris's Background & Relationship with WealthBuildersOver 30 years' experience in business exits and scalingLongstanding collaboration with Kevin Whelan and the WealthBuilders communityThe Seven Pillars of Wealth & Business as a PillarImportance of integrating business, property, and intellectual property in wealth strategiesUsing SSAS pensions and commercial property for long-term planningWho Chris HelpsFocus on ambitious SME owners (turnover £2M–£30M)Chalk Hill Blue's approach to scaling and preparing businesses for exitWhy Most Business Owners Struggle to Exit Successfully80% of personal wealth often tied up in the businessLess than 20% of businesses listed for sale actually sellCommon pitfalls: overestimating value, lack of preparation, misunderstanding buyer motivationsStages of Preparing for a Business ExitSeller Readiness: Clarifying motivations, financial needs, and post-exit plansBusiness Readiness: Building value through 10 key drivers (growth, scalability, recurring revenue, differentiation, reduced reliance on individuals/customers, strong processes, etc.)Process and Systems: Importance of automation, AI, and streamlining tasks to ensure business runs without the ownerQuick Wins for Business OwnersAssess current financial position and retirement gapUse Chalk Hill Blue's free Exit Readiness Survey for personalised feedbackFocus on one or two value drivers for immediate impactThe Role of AI and AutomationEmbracing AI for efficiency, productivity, and future-proofing business operationsReal-world examples from Chris's clients and his own accountancy practiceFamily Business TransitionsImportance of education and tailored succession planningCreating freedom and options before selling or stepping backTimeline for Selling a BusinessRealistic prep: 2 years to get “sale-ready,” plus 9–12 months to complete a saleMost deals involve staged payments and handover periodsFinding Buyers and Structuring the DealImportance of assembling a deal team (IFA, tax, legal, corporate finance)Different exit routes: trade sale, management buyout, employee ownership trust, family office, etc.Creating competition to maximise sale priceLife After ExitPlanning for the “next chapter” to avoid post-sale regret or loss of identityPractical TipsStart exit planning early—ideally at least 2 years in advanceFocus on building recurring revenue and reducing reliance on the ownerUse automation and AI to streamline processes and increase business valueEducate and engage the next generation for family business continuityAssemble a strong advisory team for the exit processResources MentionedGrab a copy of Chris Spratling's book: “The Exit Roadmap: The Insider's Guide to Selling Your Business Profitably” Check if you are you truly ready to exit. Take the Exit Readiness Survey It's a free, personalised exit readiness report.Contact Chris:Chris Spratling on LinkedinChris Spratling WebsiteWT103 - Employee ownership trusts w/ Chris BuddWT38 - The 8 Drivers Of Business Value - Richard PerryConnect with Us:Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.For more inspiring stories and actionable tips, subscribe to Wealth Talk and leave us a review!Next Steps On Your WealthBuilding Journey: Join the WealthBuilders Facebook CommunitySchedule a 1:1 call with one of our teamBecome a member of WealthBuildersIf you have been enjoying listening to WealthTalk - Please Leave Us A Review!If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review WealthTalk on your favourite podcast platform
On this episode, Jim Custer of Corporate Business Solutions joins the podcast to discuss the importance of systems. Jim works with small business owners to identify and fix profit leaks, helping them maximize value, improve efficiency, and free up time for what truly matters. His company offers a broad array of services, furnishing analytical, consulting,... The post 254: From Chaos to Control: How Systems Maximize Profits and Business Value first appeared on Cast Polymer Radio.
What does true sustainability look like at scale, and why is it smart business?Kathy Sue McGuire welcomes Megan Brumagim, Vice President of Upscale Brands and Chief Sustainability Officer at Choice Hotels International, for an in-depth conversation on how one of the world's largest hotel franchisors is tackling sustainability head-on. From corporate reporting and franchise accountability to quirky innovations (hello, beehives and bamboo toilet paper), Megan shares how Choice is aligning environmental responsibility with bottom-line results.
What if you could transform your business by embracing cutting-edge technology and innovation? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jay Kulkarni, CEO of Theorem, who shares his remarkable journey of adapting to the fast-paced world of digital innovation. With over two decades of experience, Jay provides a masterclass in future-proofing your business, diving into the pivotal role of automation and AI in redefining business models for long-term success. From the revolutionary solution Upward to the intricacies of video commerce, discover how technology can streamline operations and create lasting value. Explore the profound impact of AI across industries as we unravel its efficiency in transforming sectors like pharma and media. Jay articulates the significance of identifying and alleviating friction points in advertising sales through technological advancements. But the conversation doesn't stop there. We also discuss the essential skills entrepreneurs need as their ventures grow, the strategic importance of investing in team development, and the art of risk management. Through stories of resilience during economic challenges, learn about the importance of playing the long game and nurturing internal talent to thrive in an ever-evolving market. Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction and Welcome to Business Legacy Podcast 00:00:04 - Conversation with Jay Kulkarni, CEO of Theorem 00:00:20 - Jay's Two-Decade Career in the Digital Space 00:01:00 - Importance of Adapting Business Models with Technological Change 00:02:30 - Integration of Automation and AI in Business Operations 00:04:03 - The Transformative Impact of AI in Various Industries 00:05:00 - AI's Role in Revolutionizing Processes and Creating New Value 00:06:30 - Discussion on Robotic Process Automation and Language Models 00:07:45 - Applications of AI in Pharma and Biosciences 00:09:00 - Projects Like Upward and Video Commerce Initiatives 00:10:30 - Friction Points in Media Advertising Sales 00:11:45 - Evolving Skills Needed for Entrepreneurs 00:13:31 - Evolution and Adaptation Strategies for Long-Term Success 00:14:45 - Emphasizing the Importance of Cross-Skilling and Up-Skilling 00:16:00 - Reflections on Economic Hardships and Risk Management 00:17:15 - Importance of Attitude and Soft Skills in Hiring 00:18:30 - Fostering Resourcefulness in Teams 00:19:45 - Navigating the Challenges of Legacy Business Owners 00:21:00 - Investing in Teams and Creating New Career Opportunities 00:22:15 - Tough Decisions During Economic Downturns 00:23:30 - Leadership Style and Communication Strategies 00:24:45 - Evolution from Web 1.0 to Web 3.0 00:26:00 - The Legacy of Value Creation and Servant Leadership 00:27:15 - Stories of Former Employees and Their Successes 00:28:30 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts from Jay Kulkarni 00:29:45 - Closing Remarks and Where to Find More Information About Theorem Episode Resources: Connect with Jay here for more information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-kulkarni-theorem/ Legacy Podcast: For more information about the Legacy Podcast and its co-hosts, visit businesslegacypodcast.com. Leave a Review: If you enjoyed the episode, leave a review and rating on your preferred podcast platform. For more information: Visit businesslegacypodcast.com to access the shownotes and additional resources on the episode.
What if getting your big idea across the finish line wasn't about pitching harder, but about thinking like a storyteller… or a mastermind? In this episode of The Innovation Storytellers Show, I sit down with Ed Essey, Director of Business Value at The Microsoft Garage, to uncover the surprising mechanics behind one of the most successful innovation engines in tech. Ed isn't just helping Microsoft employees come up with bold ideas. He's teaching them how to bring those ideas to life, secure executive sponsorship, and scale them globally. With more than 20,000 projects emerging from Microsoft's annual hackathon, his work is reshaping what innovation looks like inside a giant. We discuss the Garage Growth Framework, the storytelling techniques that help innovators get to 'yes,' and why corporate innovation often needs to feel more like a heist than a business plan. Along the way, Ed shares the powerful backstories of projects like Repowering Coal, which sparked the revitalization of Three Mile Island with clean nuclear energy, and MirrorHR, a deeply personal project that's helping families reduce epileptic seizures using AI and wearables. Ed also gives us a preview of his upcoming book, The Inside Job, a heist-themed guide to innovation for intrapreneurs looking to create meaningful change in complex organizations.
In this episode of Crazy Wisdom, I, Stewart Alsop, speak with Thamir Ali Al-Rahedi, host of the From First Principles podcast on YouTube, about the nature of questions and answers, their role in business and truth-seeking, and the trade-offs inherent in technologies like AI. We explore the tension between generalists and specialists, the influence of scientism on culture, and how figures like Steve Jobs embodied the power of questions to shape markets and innovations. Thamir also shares insights from his Arabic book summary platform and his cautious approach to using large language models. You can find Thamir's work on YouTube at From 1st Principles with Thamir and on X at @Thamir's View.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversationTimestamps00:00 Stewart Alsop introduces Thamir Ali Al-Rahedi and they discuss Stewart's book on the nature of questions, curiosity, and shifting his focus to questions in business.05:00 They explore how questions generate value and answers capture it, contrasting dynamic questioning with static certainty in business and philosophy.10:00 The market is described as a subconscious feedback loop, and they examine the role of truth-seeking in entrepreneurship, using Steve Jobs as an example.15:00 Discussion turns to Steve Jobs' spiritual practices, LSD, and how unseen factors and focus shaped Apple's success.20:00 Thamir and Stewart debate starting with spiritual or business perspectives in writing, touching on the generalist curse and discernment in creative work.25:00 They reflect on writing habits, moving from short-form to long-form, and using AI as a thinking partner or tool.30:00 Thamir shares his cautious approach to large language models, viewing them as trade-offs, and discusses building an Arabic book summary platform to inspire reading and curiosity.Key InsightsThe dynamic interplay of questions and answers – Thamir Ali Al-Rahedi explains that questions generate value by opening possibilities, while answers capture and stabilize that value. He sees the best answers as those that spark even more questions, creating a feedback loop of insight rather than static certainty.Business and philosophy demand different relationships to truth – In business, answers often serve as the foundation for action and revenue generation, requiring a “false sense of certainty.” By contrast, philosophy thrives in uncertainty, allowing questions to remain open-ended and exploratory without the pressure to resolve them.The market as a subconscious mirror – Both Thamir and Stewart Alsop describe the market as a form of truth that reflects not only conscious desires but also subconscious patterns and impulses. This understanding reframes economic behavior as a dialogue between collective psychology and external systems.Steve Jobs as a case study of truth-seeking in entrepreneurship – The conversation highlights Steve Jobs's blend of spiritual exploration and technological vision, including his exposure to Eastern philosophy and LSD, as an example of how deep questioning and unconventional insight can manifest in world-changing innovations.AI as a double-edged tool for generalists – Thamir views large language models with caution, seeing them as highly specific tools that risk outsourcing critical thinking if used too early in the learning process. He frames technologies as trade-offs rather than pure solutions, emphasizing the importance of retaining one's cognitive autonomy.The generalist's curse and the art of discernment – Both guests wrestle with how to focus and finish creative projects without sacrificing breadth. Thamir suggests writing medium-length pieces as a way to engage deeply without the paralysis of long-form commitments, while Stewart reflects on how AI accelerates his exploration of open threads.A call for cultural renewal through reading and reflection – Thamir shares his initiative to build an Arabic book summary platform aimed at reviving reading habits, especially among younger audiences. He sees curated human-written content as a gateway to generalist thinking and a counterbalance to instant, algorithm-driven consumption.
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Shayna Lloyd is a Montana-based traveling photographer and videographer for the adventurous and laid-back. Shayna's signature video style can be described as “vlogs mixed with indie films” and her photos follow suit; Shayna's story-driven and experience first approach have made her stand out in the market, and her focus on simplicity and ease in all areas of her business have helped her replicate her results for other photographers and aspiring hybrid shooters.In this episode, we are joined by Shayna, who provides actionable tips for photographers on hybrid shooting, storytelling, and adding video to their services. The episode also explores the potential of video as an add-on service, raising prices, and evolving client needs in the wedding industry. Tune in to learn how to balance technical and storytelling aspects to create memorable videos alongside stunning photos.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:39 Shayna's Journey into Video01:28 Building a Business from Vlogging03:23 Transition to Hybrid Shooting10:04 Pandemic Challenges and Adaptations17:22 Rebranding and Finding a Niche21:57 Starting as a Vlogger and Finding a Unique Style22:33 Inspiration and Evolution in Wedding Videography25:04 Balancing Photography and Videography28:55 The Five Essential Shots for Storytelling32:52 Defining Deliverables and Managing Client Expectations35:20 The Business Value of Hybrid Shooting39:32 Encouragement and Practical Advice for Beginners42:44 Connecting with Shayna and Final Thoughts
