Podcast appearances and mentions of Jeff Edwards

Thirty-five years ago, there was no AI, no cloud, no smartphones—and no contract. Just a handshake. In this special episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with John Van Der Vyver (NTT DATA) and Tony Meredith (Cisco) to explore one of the most successful and enduring partnerships in technology. What started with a handshake in South Africa grew into a global relationship spanning 50 countries, serving 75% of the Fortune Global 100, and helping customers navigate every major technology shift—from networking and the internet era to sustainability, AI, energy, and beyond. But this isn't a story about revenue, contracts, or transactions. It's a story about trust. About showing up when things get hard. About taking risks together, solving problems that matter, and building a partnership that has thrived through 35 years of relentless change. Why Listen?

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about what our church does together more than any other activity.  MCCC's number one priority is (and should be) prayer.  We disciple people in prayer in all its forms (praise, thanksgiving, confession, intercession, and especially listening) with a goal of it being a constant competency.  Paul's example in 2 Timothy gives us some inspiration in how to be Constant Pray-ers.

I had the opportunity to sit down with Jeff Edwards, Senior Advisor on Materials and Manufacturing at 47G, Utah's Aerospace and Defense Association, and one of the original regional leaders behind what became AMCC. Jeff and I go back more than a decade to the early days of the EDA Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership (IMCP) program, where he was doing the hard, unglamorous work of organizing Utah's advanced manufacturing ecosystem before most people knew what that meant.We start where Jeff is now at 47G and then dig into the remarkable backstory behind it. Jeff traces the origins of Utah's advanced composites industry from its roots in Cold War missile programs to now, through the patient, deliberate work of building the Utah advanced materials and manufacturing ecosystem from the ground up, one relationship and one data point at a time. It's a textbook case study in how a region can identify a niche, build an ecosystem of support around it, and turn it into a world-class cluster.We also talk about what IMCP meant for Utah and for the broader national network. Jeff shares examples of how peer learning across IMCP regions led directly to new programs back home, from carbon fiber recycling to succession planning for family-owned defense suppliers. And we dig into the broader case of why regions can't afford to race to the bottom or go it alone, and what it looks like in practice to build the collaborative, multi-stakeholder structures that can actually move the needle. Thanks to Jeff for a great conversation, give it a listen! Links to Learn More:Find Jeff on LinkedIn.Explore 47G's body of work.Follow AMCC on Linkedin.Find Matt on Linkedin.Visit our website.AMCC's podcast is made possible in part by the expertise of Mike McAllen, founder of Podcasting4Associations. Are you part of an association also looking to produce a podcast? Let us get you in touch with Mike.Thank you to the Economic Development Administration for their partnership in producing this podcast. This podcast was prepared in part using Federal funds under award 3070145 from the Economic Development Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Economic Development Administration or the U.S. Department of Commerce.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this special edition Talking Shift episode, host Jeff Edwards sits down with executive coach and NewLeaf Partners International co-founder Sam Barcus — the trusted advisor behind many of Cisco's most influential leaders. But this conversation is bigger than leadership coaching. It's about the invisible ceilings that hold ambitious people back… the difference between performing and simply looking performative… and why the best leaders train more like elite athletes than corporate executives. From his early days at Texas Instruments and Price Waterhouse to helping shape consultative selling at IBM during one of the biggest transformations in tech history, Sam shares the experiences that shaped his coaching philosophy — one built on awareness, authenticity, curiosity, and relentless growth. Along the way, Jeff and Sam unpack:

In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Mario Castro, the executive leading Cisco's $2B+ AI Infrastructure business, for a candid conversation on what it really takes to build AI that works at enterprise scale. Everyone is talking about AI. Far fewer are prepared for what it actually demands. Mario breaks through the noise to explain why successful AI adoption has very little to do with flashy demos-and everything to do with infrastructure, security, readiness, and execution. From building what he calls a Secure AI Factory to helping organizations shift from experimentation to measurable outcomes, Mario shares the lessons leaders need now if they want to stay competitive. Why listen:

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about "Dream Disciples", the kind of character and competencies we want to produce at MCCC.  Pastor Jeff kicked off our new series looking at 2 Timothy.

In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Kevin Brown, VP of Partner Management at Insight, to unpack what it really takes to build durable partnerships in one of the most disruptive moments in IT history. With a career shaped by crisis management at RSA, ecosystem design at Vectra, and years of deep collaboration with Cisco, Kevin shares why trust—not transactions—is still the ultimate differentiator. From his candid perspective on The Cisco 360 Partner Program to Insight's bold pivot toward becoming an AI-first solutions integrator, this conversation explores how the best partners are shifting from simply moving product to architecting long-term business outcomes. Along the way, Kevin reveals his practical framework for evaluating partner investments, why “human APIs” matter more than automated portals, and how Cisco + Insight may be sitting on one of the biggest growth opportunities in modern IT—if they execute it right. Why Listen: •

20 years. One company. Zero shortcuts. In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Amy Bahlo who didn't join Cisco for the brand—she joined for a September start date so she could spend one more summer at a camp that mattered to her. Two decades later, she's leading one of Cisco's most strategic global partnerships, driving $80M in co-sell with Microsoft and now scaling that motion globally with Google. This episode isn't just about big numbers—it's about what actually builds a career that lasts. Amy gets real about the moments that didn't go her way—and why missing a role she knew was hers became the catalyst for something bigger

In this special edition of Shift Happens: Talking Shift, Jeff Edwards sits down with Ari Butler, founder of AB3 Communications, to unpack a powerful tension in today's workplace: how you can be more productive than ever… and trusted less at the same time. From his roots in theater to advising leaders across companies like Cisco, Google Cloud, and Goldman Sachs, Ari brings a unique perspective: leadership isn't just strategy—it's a creative, performative act. And every interaction? It's either building trust… or quietly eroding it. We explore what most leaders get wrong—focusing on what they want to say instead of what others need to hear—and why the best communicators don't just inform… they move people to act.

What does it really take to redesign one of the most influential partner programs in the tech industry? In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Brian Overmeyer, Director of Partner Strategy and Programs at Cisco, to go behind the scenes of The Cisco 360 Partner Program. With a background in industrial-organizational psychology and more than two decades shaping Cisco's partner ecosystem, Brian shares how programs are more than incentives—they're roadmaps that guide behavior, reward value, and help partners grow alongside Cisco. From the legacy of Cisco's Gold program to a new model built around customer outcomes, platform value, and partner co-design, this conversation explores the strategy, complexity, and trust required to evolve a program that supports tens of thousands of partners around the world. Why listen: •

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about how to seek God. How do we do it?  We looked into ancient history to get some practical advice from good king Jehoshaphat. Jeff used 2 Chronicles 17:1-9 as his scripture.

Jeff Edwards sits down with Rebecca Leach—former Cisco and AppDynamics leader turned executive coach and founder of Growth Road, an executive coaching practice focused on helping leaders navigate change with clarity, confidence, and connection. After nearly two decades in tech leadership, Rebecca reached a pivotal moment: stay in the familiar rhythm of corporate success, or step into ambiguity and redefine what leadership—and identity—really meant. What followed wasn't just a career transition. It became the foundation for Growth Road, where Rebecca now helps leaders grow through the same kinds of shifts she experienced herself. In this candid conversation, Rebecca shares the emotions behind leaving a long, successful corporate career, the courage it takes to embrace uncertainty, and the lessons leaders can carry forward when the path ahead isn't clear. Why listen: • ⚡ The hidden risk of tying your identity to your title •

In this special edition of Shift Happens — Talking Shift, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Jon Sanchez, Founder & CEO of Team Performance Institute, to unpack a simple truth: leadership isn't about managing projects — it's about developing people. Drawing on Jon's background at the United States Naval Academy and in SEAL training, they explore why the most powerful leadership tool isn't a strategy deck — it's the 1:1 conversation. They break down why culture is built in personal interactions, why accountability strengthens relationships, and why performance follows connection. Why Listen

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about seeking God to the very end. Have you ever enjoyed a book or movie but been disappointed by the ending? Have you known any Christians whose faith inspired you, but disappointed you toward the end of their life? Asa, the third king of Judah, shows us how “Seek God” is a command we must follow to the very end. No matter your circumstances, let's look at how we can end well. Jeff used 2 Chronicles 16:7-14 as his scripture reference.

What does it really take to lead through massive change? In this special edition episode: Talking Shift, we explore the human side of transformation — in the middle of the biggest partner evolution in 25+ years: The Cisco 360 Partner Program. But this conversation goes deeper than programs. Jeff Edwards sits with Jon Sanchez, Founder and CEO of Team Performance Institute, to unpack… why change is so hard? Because it challenges identity. Because leaders move faster than their teams. Because we expect adoption without allowing the process. This episode is about failing forward, becoming a beginner again, and leading with empathy through uncertainty.

What if the real competitive advantage isn't the technology—but the story you tell about it? In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Jason Marks, CEO of Techrategy and LEAD Above, to explore why storytelling—not specs—is what actually wins in tech. From simplifying complex platforms to making AI readiness feel practical (not risky), this conversation breaks down how the One Cisco story drives clarity, trust, and better outcomes when it's told well.

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about finding God. If someone says, “God told me this”, what does that mean?  Is it literal, or just a turn of phrase?  Is it their own thoughts spoken in churchy language? Do they really find direction from God?  If I want God's direction, how does that work anyway?  David gave Solomon a cheat sheet on how to find God in any situation.

What if growth isn't the problem—revenue quality is? This is the moment before the Shift. Jeff Edwards sat down with John Roger, Founder and Managing Partner of Southern Technology Partners, around the holidays to break down the real economics behind partner success. From recurring revenue and managed services to lifecycle engagement and the Cisco 360 Partner Program – on the heels of its launch, this episode gets straight to what actually drives predictable, durable profitability. Why listen

Every major transformation needs a backbone—and for Cisco partners, that backbone is the Partner Experience Platform (PXP). In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Patrick Heenan, leader of PXP strategy and development, to explore how Cisco is redefining partner experience through co-design, simplicity, and AI-powered insights—all in support of the Cisco 360 partner program. From turning complex data into clear actions to giving partners real-time visibility into growth, performance, and opportunity, this conversation shows how PXP is becoming the central intelligence platform for partner success. Why listen: •

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about how algorithms, ads, and news are filled with tips on how to live longer.  We have our favorites: diets, exercise, supplements, medicines, therapies, drinking water, breathing! Humans have always been drawn to longevity.  Trekkies say “live long and prosper”.  What does the Chronicler say?  Come, hear a challenge that connects to Prayer and Fasting Week and Prayer Summit. Jeff used 1 Chronicles 10:1-13 as his scripture reference.

What does it take to redesign a partner incentive program after more than 20 years—without losing trust, predictability, or momentum? In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Fred Farges, Senior Director of Cisco's Global Partner Incentive Program and a key architect of the Cisco 360 Partner Program, to unpack one of the most significant transformations in Cisco's partner ecosystem. They explore how market forces like AI, subscription-based revenue, and customer adoption are reshaping partner profitability—and why Cisco made the decision to co-design its future partner model with partners at global scale. This conversation covers: ● Why legacy partner incentives had to evolve ● How Cisco 360 balances innovation with predictability ● What partners can expect at launch and beyond ● The role of growth, adoption, and lifecycle in long-term success Whether you're inside Cisco, part of the partner ecosystem, or leading change in enterprise technology, this episode offers a clear, candid look at how transformation happens.

Pastor Jeff Edwards introduced our new sermon series, "Seek God". What are your resolutions?  Any resolutions with God? What are the things that really help you connect with God? King Solomon made some big resolutions three thousand years ago and shows us some basics. Let's start the year off right and “Seek God” the way He has always desired. Jeff used 2 Chronicles 7:11-16 as his scripture reference.

Pastor Jeff Edwards ended our series about Authentic Living with a underrated requirement for an authentic Christian life… gratitude.  When Jesus runs into ten men in Luke, He shows us how an inauthentic life takes good things for granted.  Authentic means thankful! Jeff used Luke 17:11-19 as his scripture reference.

Jeff Edwards is a strategic sales leader in the tech industry who loves to inspire people, teams, and organizations to step into the fullest version of themselves. In his role as Director of Partner Sales at Cisco, Jeff drives growth and value creation for Cisco's Tier One Service Provider business in the Americas, managing a $2B business in global tech sales. He is a disruptive leader who challenges the status quo to solve hard problems and propel groundbreaking success. This led Jeff to start Shift Happens, an internal podcast at Cisco for people who want to lead at the edge of change. Through real conversations with the architects behind Cisco's biggest transformations, Jeff unpacks the mindset, strategies, and stories that help leaders stay ahead, speak with confidence, and turn every shift into momentum. In this episode of The Next Level, we discuss:  How leaders create a durable culture through everyday interactions Why accountability is essential to a healthy culture How curiosity and being a beginner build resilience and openness to change What systems leaders can use to help teams see change as an opportunity for growth The Next Level Podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music. 

Jeff Edwards is a strategic sales leader in the tech industry who loves to inspire people, teams and organizations to step into the fullest version of themselves. In his role as Director of Partner Sales at Cisco, Jeff drives growth and value creation for Cisco's Tier One Service Provider business in the Americas, managing a $2B business in global tech sales. He is a disruptive leader who challenges the status quo to solve hard problems and propel groundbreaking success. This led Jeff to start Shift Happens, an internal podcast at Cisco for people who want to lead at the edge of change. Through real conversations with the architects behind Cisco's biggest transformations, Jeff unpacks the mindset, strategies, and stories that help leaders stay ahead, speak with confidence, and turn every shift into momentum. In this episode of The Next Level, we discuss:  Jon and Jeff's backgrounds and how they each got to this point in their life and careers Jeff's current role at Cisco and how his conversations about leadership, change, and growth evolved into the “Shift Happens” podcast Why change is so hard and the reasons why each person approaches change differently Strategies for embracing change and viewing it as an opportunity How to lean into vulnerability and humility as a leader The Next Level Podcast is also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music. 

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about the number one reason people leave churches, workers leave jobs, and marriages fail.  In his humble opinion it's… unresolved conflict!  We learned that Jesus gives us some steps to be followed in pursuing authentic relationships with others and resolving conflict. Jeff used Matthew 18:15-22 as his scripture reference. 

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about the most important thing in successful relationships with others.  Communication!  Jesus gives us a couple of rules to guide this communication in Matthew 7:1-12, and the bible gives us a number more.

This episode is sponsored by Lockton, click here to learn more Watch the full video on YouTube - click hereHow does a 65-year-old automotive supplier reinvent itself for the future? That's the question Jeff Edwards, Chairman and CEO of Cooper Standard, answers in this episode. With 22,000 employees across 20 countries, Cooper Standard is navigating one of the fastest periods of change in its history; not by clinging to the past, but by transforming how it leads, operates, and builds culture.Jeff explains that the company's strength begins with its people. Of the ~22,000 employees, 18,000 work in plants every day. They are the heartbeat of the business, and their mindset defines how the company performs. Culture once lived within HR, but today, that's no longer the case. And at Cooper Standard, every leader owns it. The values and purpose that guide the business aren't just words in a handbook; they shape decisions, behavior, and priorities across the organization. Jeff reinforces them in quarterly meetings with employees worldwide, making sure new hires understand how the company operates and what it stands for.Jeff explains how Cooper Standard continues to invest in better tools and infrastructure to support faster, more informed decisions — and sees AI as a future opportunity to help teams work smarter.However, Jeff points out that no system works without the right mindset. Change only happens when people are willing to adopt new ways of working together.Jeff also describes how Cooper Standard restructured its organization two years ago into three business units: Fluids, Sealing, and Industrial Specialty. Each has its own president who is responsible for performance. The new setup flattened decision-making and pushed authority closer to the work.Instead of questioning the change, employees embraced it. They wanted to understand how it would improve them, not why it was happening. That response, Jeff says, is the product of a healthy culture built on trust and shared purpose.The conversation closes where every great company story should — with its people. At Cooper Standard, leadership isn't a title or a process; it's the daily act of listening, learning, and helping others grow. Decisions are made through conversation, not command. Ideas come from every corner of the company, shaped by the experience of those who build, design, and lead on the floor each day. That shared approach to leadership is what keeps Cooper Standard moving; steady, united, and ready for whatever the next chapter demands.Themes discussed in this episode:The transformation of Cooper Standard from a legacy automotive supplier into a future-focused global manufacturerThe link between company culture and faster decision-making in today's competitive automotive industryHow Cooper Standard is strengthening its digital infrastructure to improve decision-making speedThe structural transformation that created three focused business units and improved Cooper Standard's responsiveness to customersWhy collaboration and teamwork between leaders and teams matter more than hierarchy in a modern organizationThe importance of maintaining zero-incident safety standards as a reflection of company culture and care for employeesThe connection between trust, open communication, and long-term success in a global automotive supply chainFeatured guest: Jeff EdwardsWhat he does: Jeff Edwards, Chairman and CEO...

What does it take to build durable growth in a $5.4 trillion tech market?

Why are carry-on bags such a problem when flying? This gets in the way of getting where we are going!  Pastor Jeff says a similar thing stops us from getting to our life destination.  What's thwarting our life purpose?  We need to rid ourselves of excess baggage!  Hebrews 12 tells us how – with a goal, a hero, and discipline. Have a pen and paper ready. Jeff gives an assignment!

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about our priorities. What would you say are your top priorities in life?  Would people around you agree that you are showing those priorities?  Authentic living means bringing what you say and what you show together.  The bible tells us that we have a superpower at our disposal to become the people we want to be. Jeff preached from Ephesians 2:1-10.

20,000 people. One huge transformation. Live from Cisco GSX in Las Vegas

The APJC theater is on the rise

Change is never easy… but it's where the magic happens. In this special edition of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Rhonda Henley live from Las Vegas at Cisco GSX

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about how God loves Calgary!  Did you know that?  He loves this city.  He is the God of this city.  In the bible, the church is sometimes called a city.  That's because the church is to be an example of what our city could be with God living here. Jeff's scripture reference was Hebrews 12:18-24.

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about “Back to school!”  How do these words make you feel?  Returning to school, ministry, or other routines can be a stressful time.  What's a healthy way to deal with current and future tensions?  Your pastors suggest “authentic living”.  Jeff introduced our new sermon series which suggests how to get real with God, self, and others. Jeff used Luke 19:1-9 as his scripture reference.

Ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about distribution?

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Stephen Tessitore, Cisco's Global VP of Partner Marketing, to explore the “accidental” yet ambitious journey from sales to leading global partner marketing. Stephen shares how today's marketing is being reshaped by AI, hyper-personalization, and brand differentiation — and why the Cisco 360 Partner Program represents the biggest shift (and opportunity) in partner programs in 20+ years. From building authentic brands to balancing AI efficiency with human connection, this conversation offers practical insights for partners navigating change and rethinking their value in the market.

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Emma Carpenter, SVP of Recurring Revenue Acceleration at Cisco. From her global journey across Avaya, Palo Alto, and now Cisco, Emma shares how partners are the key to unlocking customer value in a recurring revenue world. They dive into: • Why transformation—not disruption—is the mindset shift we need • How Cisco is enabling partners through the Customer Value Journey • What the Cisco 360 Partner Program means for long-term success If you're navigating Cisco's partner landscape or driving outcomes for your customers, this episode delivers the clarity and energy to keep moving forward.

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Cisco's Andrew Wozniak and Leonard Thompson—two experts leading the charge on managed services across the Americas. They break down why managed services are more than just a trend—they're a growth engine.

In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Brett Harrison, Director of Global Partner Go-To-Market Strategy for Collaboration at Cisco. From flying planes to driving partner success, Brett brings his strategic storytelling superpower to a packed conversation on the evolution of hybrid work, the AI-powered digital front door, and why interoperability is no longer optional. They dig into: • Market trends shaping collaboration and customer experience • How AI is transforming contact centers and redefining brand interactions • The power of Cisco's 360 Partner Program and Partner Value Index • Why “every customer is now a Cisco opportunity” Whether you're a partner, customer, or Cisco team member—this episode delivers clear, actionable insights to help you grow your collaboration practice and elevate your brand.

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Rakesh Samtani, Senior Director of Partner Networking Sales at Cisco, to explore how AI is transforming network management and how the Cisco 360 Partner program initiative is reshaping the partner landscape. From key innovations unveiled at Cisco LIVE to actionable insights that can drive growth and profitability, this conversation dives into the $43 billion network refresh opportunity and what it means for partners ready to lead with AI. What you'll learn: • Why AI is the engine of next-gen networking • How Cisco the 360 Partner Program is evolving the partner model • The power of new messaging and partner engagement • Big takeaways from Cisco Live • How to capitalize on the $43B opportunity Mic drop moments: “We are investing with our partners.” “AI is moving GDPs.” “It's time to buzz the tower.”

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about the church as an army. Do you feel like you are at peace or at war? Another metaphor for churches is “the armies of heaven”. That's because God has asked us to fight a war. It's a war that only the church can fight. Jeff used Revelation 19:11-16 as his scripture reference.

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards talks with Ken Seitz, Senior Director at Cisco, about the Cisco 360 Partner Value Index (PVI)—a game-changing shift in how Cisco recognizes and rewards partner performance. They break down how the PVI works, what it means for branding and profitability, and how it's helping partners sharpen their focus in key areas like networking, security, and AI. Ken shares insights on the move from a one-size-fits-all recognition model to a more specialized approach, why predictability matters, and how partner feedback is shaping future improvements. Plus, you'll hear exactly what steps partners can take now to make the most of their PVI scores and the Cisco 360 program. Key takeaways: • What the PVI is and why it matters • How PVI scores impact branding and profit • Why specialization is the new strategy • The role of partner incentives (CPI) • Actionable ways to boost your PVI score

Pastor Jeff Edwards spoke about brothers and sisters. He calls us that (brothers and sisters) because we are a family.  We are the perfect family!  (Ha!  Hardly!) Just like any family, we are flawed, but unlike any family, we have a perfect Father.  That connects us in miraculous ways. Jeff will use Mark 4:31-35 as his scripture reference.

In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards welcomes Sharon Price, Director of Strategy & Planning for Cisco's Global Partner Organization, to unpack the new Cisco Partner Incentive (CPI) Estimator. Sharon shares how the tool helps partners model profitability, plan for growth, and align with the Cisco 360 Partner Program. Whether you're a partner or field team member, this episode gives you the insights—and the action steps—you need to start planning today. Because clarity isn't the end goal. It's the beginning.

What really goes into the biggest partner program evolution Cisco has launched in 20 years? In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards is joined by two powerhouse leaders — Elisabeth De Dobbeleer, SVP of the Cisco Partner Program, and Rhonda Henley, VP of Americas Partner Sales — to unpack what's new, what's working, and what's still in motion with the Cisco 360 Partner Program. They tackle: • The mindset shift partners are making • The biggest wins • What teams and partners can do today to set up for success Insightful. Actionable. Real talk. Grab your coffee or hit play on your commute — let's make shift happen.

Jason Gallo, Global VP of Partner GTM at Cisco, joins Jeff Edwards to unpack the latest evolution of the Cisco 360 Partner Program. From key truths about the new estimator tool to aligning partner investments with what's next — this episode delivers the insights you need to lead with clarity and confidence. Tune in and get ahead of the shift.