Podcast appearances and mentions of Neil Thompson

Neil Thompson is the founder of Teach the Geek, a company dedicated to helping technical professionals effectively communicate the value of their work to non-technical stakeholders. He joins the podcast to share how anyone with a specialization can sharpen their presentation skills—moving beyond acronyms and jargon that only experts understand.  This conversation also explores what L&D professionals can do when they're on the receiving end of technical lingo. How do you collaborate with a SME who seems to speak a different language? How can you encourage technical workers to embrace soft skill training? And where do we even start when it comes to AI?  Neil answers all of these questions and offers practical tips to solve a common workplace issue: getting too technical.  Resources:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilithompson/   Website: https://teachthegeek.com/   TD Magazine article (Member-only):  https://www.td.org/content/td-magazine/public-speaking-struggles-for-technical-professionals   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/teachthegeek 

“When we talk about how we create healthier work environments, we start with leaders because we know that they drive change and create culture within an organization. And so they have a lot of power to create something that's a little bit better than what it is today.” – Dr. Patricia Grabarek Today's featured PHD tag-team author duo are speakers, teachers, researchers, workplace wellness experts, and the founders of Workr Being, Dr. Patricia Grabarek and Dr. Katina Sawyer. The Docs and I had a fun on a bun chat about her book, “Leading for Wellness: How to Create a Team Culture Where Everyone Thrives”, the challenges organizations face in addressing root causes of stress and overwork, and more!!Key Things You'll Learn:What inspired Dr. Patricia & Dr. Katina to co-write their first bookWhy it's important for leadership and organizational culture in fostering employee well-beingWhy scattered wellness initiatives are not the solution to workplace stress and overworkThe challenges organizations face in fostering employee well-beingSome practical tips for creating healthier work environmentsDr. Patricia & Dr. Katina's Site: https://workrbeeing.com/Dr. Patricia & Dr. Katina's Book: https://a.co/d/aMA15ZZThe opening track is titled, "Set Sail" by Sparks Dynamite. To listen to and download the full track, click the following link. https://planetastroproductions.bandcamp.com/track/set-sail-intro Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou May Also Like…Ep. 764 – The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace with Dr. Paul White (@drpaulwhite): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-764-the-5-languages-of-appreciation-in-the-workplace-with-dr-paul-white-drpaulwhite/Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/Ep. 502 – “A Leadership Development Strategy To Bond And Unite” With Amy P. Kelly (@AmyPKelly): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-502-a-leadership-development-strategy-to-bond-and-unite-with-amy-p-kelly-amypkelly/Ep. 571 – “A Powerful Culture Starts with You” with Dr. Shahrzad Nooravi (@shahrzadnooravi): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-571-a-powerful-culture-starts-with-you-with-dr-shahrzad-nooravi-shahrzadnooravi/Ep. 472 – “From Academia to Entrepreneurship” with Dr. Emily Crookston (@EMCrookston): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-472-from-academia-to-entrepreneurship-with-dr-emily-crookston-emcrookston/Ep. 931 – Proven Sales Management Wisdom for a Limitless Career with Meghan Clarke (@meghanclarkeofficial): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-931-proven-sales-management-wisdom-for-a-limitless-career-with-meghan-clarke-meghanclarkeoff/Ep. 848 – How To Be So Good They Won't Forget You with Emily Jaenson: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-848-how-to-be-so-good-they-wont-forget-you-with-emily-jaenson/Ep. 623 - "The Day One Executive" With April Armstrong (@ahaconsult): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-623-the-day-one-executive-with-april-armstrong-ahaconsult/Ep. 922 – The Mentorship Edge with Deborah Heiser, PhD (@deborahheiser): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-922-the-mentorship-edge-with-deborah-heiser-phd-deborahheiser/Ep. 685 – “How Inclusive Leaders Keep Their Employees Engaged & Productive” with Dea Irby (@deairby): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-685-how-inclusive-leaders-keep-their-employees-engaged-productive-with-dea-irby-deairby/Ep. 587 – “Cadence” with Leanne Spencer: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-587-cadence-with-leanne-spencer/

Is Hilary Woodward trying to stop Hilary Woodward from enjoying Police Squad!? This episode would be a great way to find out.

The Value of Speaker Training for Technical StaffIn this episode of the Teach the Geek Podcast, host Neil Thompson explores why organizations should invest in speaker training for their technical staff. He shares a real-life conference experience that highlights the gap in communication between technical professionals and business development teams. Neil breaks down the key elements of an effective speaker training program, including: ✅ Identifying presentation challenges specific to technical professionals ✅ Structuring presentations with a clear call to action ✅ Mastering essential speaking skills like time management and audience adaptation ✅ Providing opportunities for practice through lunch and learns ✅ Measuring success with feedback and gamification By equipping technical staff with strong presentation skills, organizations can create better industry representatives, improve internal communication, and help their employees advance in their careers. Tune in to learn how your organization can benefit from empowering its technical professionals to speak with confidence! __TEACH THE GEEK (http://teachthegeek.com)Follow @teachthegeek (Twitter) and @_teachthegeek_ (IG)Get Public Speaking Tips for STEM professionals at http://teachthegeek.com/tips.

In a brilliant editorial by Ralph Winter over 20 years ago, he wrote that of all those “called” into missionary service only 1 of 100 make it! Why? Because of the lack of mobilizers, or mentors. This breakout session will consider the WHY, WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN & HOW of mentoring. What is it? Who and what needs to be mentored? And, how can you find the resources that are available? Join us to hear stories, learn insights and focus on your desire to journey with God and to ultimately glorify Him through your medical (healthcare) mission ministry. This session will describe the WHY, WHO, WHAT, WHERE, WHEN & WHY of mentoring. Session recorded on Saturday, November 11th during Session Block #7 at 9:30 AM EST ; speaker: Neil Thompson Session webpage: https://www.medicalmissions.com/events/gmhc-2023/sessions/mentoring-for-future-healthcare-missionaries

“When you are working on your own, you just have to make sure that you do the behind the scenes things that need to be done to create your own success.” – Lois Creamer Today's featured bestselling author is a consultant, renowned speaker, and industry expert who works with speakers, consultants, and experts wanting to book more business, make more money, and monetize their message, Lois Cramer. Lois and I had a fun on a bun chat about her new book, “Book More Business: Make MORE Money Speaking”, some strategies for monetizing your speaking career, and more!Key Things You'll Learn:Why it pays to have a formal launch for your bookSome of the challenges of being a professional speaker and the importance of your intellectual propertyThe game-changing concept of "aftercare" and its value when supporting your client post-engagementThe valuable marketing lesson that Lois learned from Jeffrey Gitomer that she still applies todayWhat Lois does to remain organized and productive as a solopreneurLois' Site: https://www.bookmorebusiness.com/Lois' Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07R75YR16/allbooksThe opening track is titled, "Set Sail" by Sparks Dynamite. To listen to and download the full track, click the following link. https://planetastroproductions.bandcamp.com/track/set-sail-intro Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou May Also Like… Ep. 835 – Turn Words Into Wealth with Aurora Winter, MBA (@AuroraWinterMBA): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-835-turn-words-into-wealth-with-aurora-winter-mba-aurorawintermba/Ep. 645 – “How to Build a #Profitable Speaking Business” with Bret Ridgway (@bridgway): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-645-how-to-build-a-profitable-speaking-business-with-bret-ridgway-bridgway/Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/216 – “The Write Way” with Amy Collins (@askamycollins): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/216-the-write-way-with-amy-collins-askamycollins/Ep. 680 – “The Influence Lottery Ticket for Having High Impact” with Kelly Swanson (@motivationspkr): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-680-the-influence-lottery-ticket-for-having-high-impact-with-kelly-swanson-motivationspkr/Ep. 400 – “How to Become a Multimillionaire, but Not Act Like It” with Tom Antion (@TomAntion): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-400-how-to-become-a/ Ep. 583 – “How to Be the Face of Your Business” with Tonya Eberhart (@brandfacestar): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-583-how-to-be-the-face-of-your-business-with-tonya-eberhart-brandfacestar/Ep. 510 - "Lights, Camera, Action" With Amy Scruggs (@amyscruggssd): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-510-lights-camera-action-with-amy-scruggs-amyscruggssd/86 - "Stepping Into the Spotlight" with Tsufit (@Tsufit): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/86-stepping-into-the-spotlight-with-tsufit-tsufit/141 - "Thou Shall Be Successful" with William Winfield (@Willisblessed38): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/141-thou-shall-be-successful-with-william-winfield-willisblessed38/Ep. 348 – “Bring Inner Greatness Out” with Dr. Mansur Hasib, CISSP, PMP, CPHIMS (@mhasib): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-348-bring-inner-greatness-out-with-dr-mansur-hasib-cissp-pmp-cphims-mhasib/Ep. 424 – “Thoughtfully Fit” with Darcy Luoma (@DarcyLuoma): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-424-thoughtfully-fit-with-darcy-luoma-darcyluoma/Ep. 610 – “Are You Open To…” with Merit Kahn, CSP (@MeritKahn): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-610-are-you-open-to-with-merit-kahn-csp-meritkahn/

Neil Thompson, author of Driving With the Devil, joins us for an incredible deep dive into the untold stories of NASCAR's earliest days. Discover how moonshiners like Raymond Parks, Red Byron, and others laid the foundation for the sport we know today. Neil shares the lengths he went to earn trust, uncover forgotten legends, and capture the gritty origins of stock car racing. From thrilling tales of moonshine runs to the first NASCAR teams, this episode is packed with fascinating history and unforgettable characters. This is a collaboration between The Scene Vault Podcast and North Carolina's Department of Cultural and Natural Resources made to spotlight the history of moonshine, motorsports, and the state of North Carolina. For more great Moonshine & Motorsports content, check out the other episodes and videos here: https://dailydownforce.com/moonshine-motorsports/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

 In this episode of Conversations for Couples, Julie and David Bulitt sit down with Amy and Neil Thompson, also known as "Better With Age Together" on Instagram. This inspiring couple shares how they've embraced life as empty nesters by building healthier lifestyles and strengthening their marriage. Amy and Neil talk about their journey with Faster Way to Fat Loss, why they focus on God's food, the power of connection through shared goals, and how couples can navigate this new chapter with confidence. From balancing work, fitness, and personal time to overcoming challenges, their tips are practical, uplifting, and relatable for any couple.

In this episode of the Human Capital Lab podcast, we delve into the strategic deployment of resources to enhance employee engagement, productivity, and fulfillment. Topics include the importance of reflecting on learning experiences, the newfound flexibility and freedom of talent in the post-pandemic workforce, the essential skills needed for leadership, and the critical role of trust in human leadership. We also explore effective mentoring practices, the integration of neuroscience in learning, and the significance of data in talent development. Join us as we unlock the long-term potential of human capital.00:00 Introduction to the Human Capital Lab Podcast00:20 Reflecting on Learning Experiences00:55 Talent Flexibility and Workforce Trends03:47 Strategic Leadership and Trust05:18 Learning and Development Impact06:27 The Evolving Science of Learning08:10 Mentoring vs. Coaching10:58 Challenges in Talent Development13:10 Understanding and Using Data18:17 Conclusion and Next StepsConnect with the Guests: Jess Almlie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessalmlie/ Heath Mello: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathmelloJennifer Nash: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjennifernash/Avi Kahn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikahn/ Teri Hart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terihart/Tricia Beck: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tricia2thrive/Neil Thompson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilithompson/Alaina Szlachta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drszlachta/Connect with Human Capital Lab; Host: Rich Douglas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-douglas-92b71b52/ Human Captial Lab Links Website: https://humancapitallab.org/ Interested in Being a Guest? https://humancapitallab.org/podcast/

Lucinda is joined by Neil Thompson, founder of Teach the Geek, to explore how technical experts can enhance their presentation skills. Drawing from his own experiences as a former engineer in the medical device industry, Neil shares insights on the common pitfalls technical professionals face when communicating with non-technical audiences, such as the overuse of jargon and a lack of empathy for the audience's understanding KEY TAKEAWAYS Use plain language and avoid technical jargon or acronyms that non-technical audiences may not understand. Instead, opt for simpler terms and analogies to convey complex ideas. Remember that not everyone has the same technical background. Consider the perspective of your audience and tailor your message to their level of understanding. Incorporate storytelling into presentations to make technical information more relatable and engaging. This helps the audience connect with the material and understand its relevance. Clearly define what you want your audience to do after your presentation. Start with the desired outcome in mind and structure your content to lead to that conclusion. BEST MOMENTS "Technical jargon is a big issue. We assume non-technical people know these words, but a lot of times they don't. We should use more analogies and simpler words to communicate effectively." "If you're the technical person, you may not see it as part of your job to do that translation. It's not until you want that promotion that you realise the importance of communication." "Storytelling is really important. If you want people to follow what you're saying, couching technical data in the form of a story can help non-technical people understand." VALUABLE RESOURCES The HR Uprising Podcast | Apple | Spotify | Stitcher   The HR Uprising LinkedIn Group How to Prioritise Self-Care (The HR Uprising) How To Be A Change Superhero - by Lucinda Carney HR Uprising Mastermind - https://hruprising.com/mastermind/   www.changesuperhero.com www.hruprising.com            Get your copy of How To Be A Change Superhero by emailing at info@actus.co.uk Teach The Geek - https://teachthegeek.com/ ABOUT THE HOST Lucinda Carney is a Business Psychologist with 15 years in Senior Corporate L&D roles and a further 10 as CEO of Actus Software where she worked closely with HR colleagues helping them to solve the same challenges across a huge range of industries. It was this breadth of experience that inspired Lucinda to set up the HR Uprising community to facilitate greater collaboration across HR professionals in different sectors, helping them to ‘rise up' together. “If you look up, you rise up” CONTACT METHOD HR Uprising Join the LinkedIn community - https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13714397/ Email: Lucinda@advancechange.co.uk Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucindacarney/ Twitter: @lucindacarney Instagram: @hruprising Facebook: @hruprising Actus Software Website: https://www.actus.co.uk LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube X / Twitter HR podcast, The HR Uprising, Diversity, Equality & Inclusion, Learning and Development, Culture & Change: https://hruprising.com/hr-podcasts/

Neil Thompson, Chief Strategy Officer at NextGen Kitchens, a software platform powering on and off premise digital transactions for multi-brand foodservice operators. In this episode, we'll cover Neil's 30-year career at brands like Tim Hortons and HMSHost, the complexities of multi-brand food halls, and how his technology is helping landlords and operators create frictionless guest experiences.

Neil Thompson is an engineer who worked in the medical device industry and used to fail miserably at public speaking. As a result, he founded Teach the Geek. He now works with technical professionals like himself to improve their presentation skills. He also hosts the Teach the Geek podcast. And he's the author of the book, Teach the Geek to Speak: a no-fluff public speaking guide for STEM Professionals. In this episode, Mitch talks about “Public Speaking as a game changer for technical staff”. Host: Marie-Line Germain, Ph.D. Mixing: Kelly Minnis

“We are nature. We're not separate from it. We have a role in nature, and all of our actions affect what happens in nature.” – Patricia Newman Today's featured multi award-winning author is a mom, wife, speaker, environmentalist, and literacy advocate, Patricia Newman. Patricia and I had a fun on a bun chat about her new book, “Giant Rays of Hope: Protecting Manta Rays to Safeguard the Sea”, raising awareness about environmental issues, the importance of engaging nonfiction books, and more!! Key Things You'll Learn:What inspired Patricia to become a children's book authorSome of the unique challenges of writing children's nonfiction booksThe best way to connect with young readersHer process for securing scientific collaboration and developing book proposalsThe interconnectedness of human actions and environmental impactPatricia's Site: https://www.patriciamnewman.com/Patricia's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B001KDKRJA/allbooksThe opening track is titled "Heatsource" by the magnanimous chill-hop master, Marcus D (@marcusd). Be sure to visit his site and support his craft. https://marcusd.net/Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awotYou Might Also Like…Ep. 822 – Journey to the Total Solar Eclipse with Meg Jerit (@megjerit): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-822-journey-to-the-total-solar-eclipse-with-meg-jerit-megjerit/Ep. 689 – “There Are (No) Stupid Questions . . . in Science” with Leah Elson (@gnarlybygnature): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-689-there-are-no-stupid-questions-in-science-with-leah-elson-gnarlybygnature/#Host2Host Ep. – “Living Like the Future Matters” with Donna Maltz (@Soil2Soulutions): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/host2host-ep-living-like-the-future-matters-with-donna-maltz-soil2soulutions/Ep. 586 – “Flipping Bad Situations into Joyful Children's Books” with Violet Lemay (@violetlemay): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-586-flipping-bad-situations-into-joyful-childrens-books-with-violet-lemay-violetlemay/Ep. 812 – Empowering Children and Promoting Safety with Sabrina Osso (@OssoSabrina): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-812-empowering-children-and-promoting-safety-with-sabrina-osso-ossosabrina/Ep. 582 – “Shaping the World Through Great Stories for All Ages” with Natasha Deen (@natasha_deen): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-582-shaping-the-world-through-great-stories-for-all-ages-with-natasha-deen-natasha_deen/Ep. 682 – “Leadership Begins with Motivation” with Dr. Danny Brassell (@DannyBrassell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-682-leadership-begins-with-motivation-with-dr-danny-brassell-dannybrassell/Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/Ep. 793 – How to Bounce Back as a Children's Book Author with Rella B. (@RellaBBooks): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-793-how-to-bounce-back-as-a-childrens-book-author-with-rella-b-rellabbooks/Ep. 522 – “Peanut the Penguin” with Aruna Lepore (@ArunaMLepore): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-522-peanut-the-penguin-with-aruna-lepore-arunamlepore/Ep. 483 – “Baby Aviva Orangutan Diva” with Hans Kullberg (@AvivasDaddy) #BABYAVIVA: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-483-baby-aviva-orangutan-diva-with-hans-kullberg-avivasdaddy-babyaviva/Ep. 335 – “Last of the Gifted” with Marie Powell (@mepowell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-335-last-of-the-gifted-with-marie-powell-mepowell/Ep. 559 - "Picky Patrick" With Eleni Fuiaxis (@EleniFuiaxis): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-559-picky-patrick-with-eleni-fuiaxis-elenifuiaxis/

In this episode of the Human Capital Lab Podcast, host Rich Douglas interviews Neil Thompson, founder of Teach the Geek, a service aimed at improving public speaking and presentation skills among technical professionals. Neil shares his personal journey from struggling with presentations as a product development engineer to creating Teach the Geek to help other technical experts enhance their communication skills. He discusses the process and benefits of his coaching, including an online course and in-person training, and emphasizes the importance of clear communication for technical staff within organizations. The episode highlights how talent development departments can collaborate with Teach the Geek to empower their technical employees to become more effective communicators. 00:25 Meet Neil Thompson01:06 Neil's Journey: From Research Associate to Product Development Engineer02:56 The Birth of Teach the Geek03:51 Teach the Geek: Services and Offerings04:25 Improving Technical Communication Skills06:09 The Teach the Geek Process08:48 Engaging Talent Development Departments11:16 The Importance of Technical Staff in Presentations22:02 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThank you for joining us on the Human Capital Lab podcast journey. We hope you found inspiration and valuable insights from today's discussions. Be sure to share this episode with your colleagues and friends, and stay tuned for our exciting new season. Remember, continuous learning is the key to unlocking the long-term potential of human capital. Connect with the Guests: Neil Thompson;LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilithompson/Website: https://teachthegeek.com/ Connect with Human Capital Lab; Host: Rich Douglas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-douglas-92b71b52/ Human Captial Lab Links Website: https://humancapitallab.org/ Interested in Being a Guest? https://humancapitallab.org/podcast/ This is a Growth Network Podcasts production.

Technical professionals have a high level of expertise, but translating that expertise for non-technical colleagues isn't always straightforward. Whether you're an engineer, a researcher, or even an L&D professional, how can you communicate in a way that resonates with your audience?  This week on the Mind Tools L&D Podcast, Ross D and Owen are joined by Neil Thompson, founder of Teach The Geek, to discuss:   why good communication skills are important for technical professionals;  the specific challenges associated with technical communication;  how L&D can support technical professionals to become better communicators.  To find out more about Neil's work, visit www.teachthegeek.com  The very geeky meta-meta-analysis that Owen mentioned in ‘What I Learned This Week' can be found at: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41746-024-01172-y  You can read the Verge article that Ross D referenced at: https://www.theverge.com/2024/8/18/24223160/waymo-honking-san-francisco-parking-lot-depot-fix-not-working  For more from us, including access to our back catalogue of podcasts, visit mindtools.com/business. There, you'll also find details of our award-winning performance support toolkit, our off-the-shelf e-learning, and our custom work.    Or become a member to support our show! Visit mindtools.com and use the offer code PODCAST15 for 15% off an individual subscription. This offer is for new subscribers only and can't be used with any other offer.   Connect with our speakers     If you'd like to share your thoughts on this episode, connect with us on LinkedIn:  Ross Dickie  Owen Ferguson  Neil Thompson 

What should you price your course? That's the million-dollar question! In this episode, let's talk about some of the factors you should consider as you pick (and test!) your prices. Get the full links and show notes at https://CourseCreatorsHQ.com/203.RELATED EPISODESE049: The Price Is Right: How to Use the 3rd P of Course MarketingE106: High Ticket vs. Low Ticket Online CoursesE117: Is Your Market Different with Neil Thompson of TeachTheGeek KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR ONLINE COURSE CREATORS   Things to consider: First, your students have to do the work to get the results (no matter what price you choose). And if they do at least 80%, you should get them results. Second thing that can happen - your course or program is not the right fit for the message or the audience. Third, your methods may not work for some students. So fourth... make sure you know who your methods work and do not work for. Fifth, pay attention to your students' experience-level and expectations from your marketing. Value vs. PriceHere are some of the things that are in-between today and the transformation of your course (the value to them):It's just a dream or imagination right now. The student may not believe they can get there.They may not yet believe YOU can get them there.They may not believe THEY can get themselves there. Will they do the work? Have they done things in the past that didn't work? Do they have the discipline?They may not believe in your program… yet.There may be other things they want (or need!) to spend their money on more. Especially right now, I see people being more careful about what they are buying.Practical pricing advice:You must be totally confident in your price!Work on your messaging to reinforce how do-able your program is. Help your potential students see themselves making the journey with you at their side.Use testimonials around all kinds of things – the way you work with them, the results people get, the confidence they built, even one step of your program. All those things build evidence and belief.How can potential students test-drive working with you?This one sounds a bit harsh… but especially if you are selling high ticket, are there ways to help people self-select what program is best for them. There'e more on this in episode 106, when I talked about how you want to sell.Include FAQs to help people decide if you are the right fit and whether it will be the right audience. Make sure you say who the program is NOT for.Stop focusing on what YOU would pay.Set expectations – balance them with sales messaging.Test, test, test! COME VISIT JULIE!  Get on the email list AND get the FREE Ultimate Course Creators Planner -  https://coursecreatorshq.com/2024PlannerPodcast  Get this free course -  Is My Course Idea Any Good? here -https://www.coursecreatorshq.com/ideaGoodPods Let's talk about this episode on GoodPods – https://CourseCreatorsHQ.com/goodpods (mobile only, download the app first) Website https://www.CourseCreatorsHQ.comYouTube  https://coursecreatorshq.com/YouTubePodcast   Facebook https://www.facebook.com/CourseCreatorsHQInstagram  https://www.instagram.com/CourseCreatorsHQTwitter https://www.Twitter.com/CourseHQThreadshttps://www.threads.net/@coursecreatorshq  Disclaimers  https://coursecreatorshq.com/disclaimers/ 

Welcome to The Nonlinear Library, where we use Text-to-Speech software to convert the best writing from the Rationalist and EA communities into audio. This is: Thoughts on this $16.7M "AI safety" grant?, published by defun on July 16, 2024 on The Effective Altruism Forum. Open Philanthropy has recommended a total of $16.7M to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology to support research led by Neil Thompson on modeling the trends and impacts of AI and computing. 2020 - MIT - AI Trends and Impacts Research - $550,688 2022 - MIT - AI Trends and Impacts Research - $13,277,348 2023 - MIT - AI Trends and Impacts Research - $2,911,324 I've read most of their research, and I don't understand why Open Philanthropy thinks this is a good use of their money. Thompson's Google Scholar here. Thompson's most cited paper "The Computational Limits of Deep Learning" (2020) @gwern pointed out some flaws on Reddit. Thompson's latest paper "A Model for Estimating the Economic Costs of Computer Vision Systems that use Deep Learning" (2024) This paper has many limitations (as acknowledged by the author) and from an x-risks point of view, this paper seems irrelevant. What do you think about Open Philanthropy recommending a total of $16.7M for this work? Thanks for listening. To help us out with The Nonlinear Library or to learn more, please visit nonlinear.org

In this episode, I chat with engineer and founder of Teach the Geek, Neil Thompson, about how we can be better presenters as technical professionals or improve our training on technical topics, making them more useful for our audience. After one too many failed presentations, Neil Thompson, an engineer who worked in the medical device industry, knew he had to improve. He did so, and now, via his company Teach the Geek, he works with technical professionals like himself to improve their presentation skills. He's the creator of the Teach the Geek to Speak online public speaking course, geared towards those in the technical fields. He hosts a podcast, the Teach the Geek podcast, interviewing technical professionals about their public speaking journeys. He's also author of the book, Teach the Geek to Speak: a no-fluff public speaking guide for STEM Professionals and the accompanying workbook. To get in touch with Neil, please visit http://teachthegeek.com, and to check out the podcast, visit http://podcast.teachthegeek.com.Neil's advice for those who want to improve their presentation skills:Join your local ToastmastersThanks for listening to the BLOC! Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidiekirby/Or check out what I'm working on over at https://www.getusefulstuff.com/

Between Buildings and Books: Sandy Poirier Smith's Unexpected Path In this episode, Neil Thompson sits down with Sandy Poirier Smith, the CEO of Smith Publicity, a company dedicated to helping authors with book marketing and promotion. Despite her background in architecture, Sandy found herself in the world of book promotion. Join us as we explore her unique journey, the benefits of public speaking in her career, and much more. __ TEACH THE GEEK (http://teachthegeek.com) Subscribe and rate on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Follow @teachthegeek (Twitter) and @_teachthegeek_ (IG) Get Public Speaking Tips for STEM Professionals at http://teachthegeek.com/tips #publicspeaking #technicalcommunication #presentationskills

“Mini Meg was all about making books out of construction paper. I chose this path, and it's led me to a lot of really cool places and to meeting really amazing people.” – Meg JeritToday's featured author is a poet, and educator, Meg Jerit. Meg and I had a fun on a bun chat about her 1st book, “The Moonies: Journey to the Total Solar Eclipse”, her advice for aspiring children's authors, her plans for future writing projects, and more! Key Things You'll Learn:The backstory of "The Moonies" and Meg's personal experience with the solar eclipseSome tips for preparing to see the 4/8/24 solar eclipseHow life's unexpected turns can lead to new creative horizons Meg's Site: https://www.megjerit.com/Meg's Book: https://www.eclipseglasses.com/collections/get-eclipsed-book/products/the-moonies-journey-to-the-total-solar-eclipseSolar Eclipse Glasses: https://www.eclipseglasses.com/ The opening track is titled "Kareru R Daichi Q-MIX" by Rukunetsu AKA Project R (@Rukunetsu). Use the following link to hear the full track and support his craft. https://on.soundcloud.com/62w8XPlease support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmonThe Going North Advancement Compass: https://a.co/d/bA9awot You Might Also Like… Ep. 689 – “There Are (No) Stupid Questions . . . in Science” with Leah Elson (@gnarlybygnature): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-689-there-are-no-stupid-questions-in-science-with-leah-elson-gnarlybygnature/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ Ep. 793 – How to Bounce Back as a Children's Book Author with Rella B. (@RellaBBooks): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-793-how-to-bounce-back-as-a-childrens-book-author-with-rella-b-rellabbooks/ Ep. 775 – From Blogging Mom to Award-Winning #KidLit Author with Caroline Fernandez (@ParentClub): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-775-from-blogging-mom-to-award-winning-kidlit-author-with-caroline-fernandez-parentclub/ 241.5 (Charm City Bonus Episode) – “Off She Goes to Mexico” with Laurel Conran: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/2415-charm-city-bonus-episode-off-she-goes-to-mexico-with-laurel-conran/ Ep. 586 – “Flipping Bad Situations into Joyful Children's Books” with Violet Lemay (@violetlemay): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-586-flipping-bad-situations-into-joyful-childrens-books-with-violet-lemay-violetlemay/

Public speaking and good communication skills are powerful tools in any job. These skills can help you build strong relationships, better understand people and situations, foster collaboration, build trust and respect, and create space for sharing innovative ideas and solving problems. Listen to my conversation with Neil Thompson, the creator of "Teach the Geek to Speak" podcast, to get some tips on improving your public speaking skills.  Keys to the Future podcast was named top 80 Best STEM podcasts by FeedSpot. Follow on Instagram or Facebook Get Neil Thompson's tips on public speaking at Teach the Geek Public Speaking Tips

A bumper episode with Dan Rossiter, Henry Fenby-Taylor, Johnathan Munkley and Neil Thompson discussing the recently introduced ISO Digital Twin standard, Dan goes on the therapy couch, Johnathan goes through the revolving door and we all stand on this virtual stage to talk about digital twins.

“Start doing things and figure out what it is that you want to do that leans into your creativity.” – Rella B.Today's featured bookcaster is a mom, a flight attendant, children's content creator, cow enthusiast, and imagination Catalyst, Rella B. Rella and I had a fun on a bun chat about her books, her battle-tested advice for aspiring authors, and tons more!!! Key Things You'll Learn:What inspired Rella to be an authorWhat it was like living in Japan and its influence on Rella's brand of content creationHow to make your book marketing funHer biggest setback that led to her biggest success Rella's Site: https://rellabbooks.com/Rella's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B0CL9C4VFL/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=0a691cf9-c640-4296-a515-f6b475ff55d2Rella's Podcast, “Reading With Rella B”: https://open.spotify.com/show/02kdy7hepEGLmT202aTa0h?si=ee599cba8ee94ef0 The opening track is titled "Money Trees" by the magnanimous chill-hop master, Marcus D (@marcusd). Be sure to visit his site and support his craft. https://marcusd.net/Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmon You Might Also Like… Ep. 330 – “A Long Way from Ordinary” with Ann Charles (@AnnWCharles): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-330-a-long-way-from-ordinary-with-ann-charles-annwcharles/ Ep. 606 – “Crowdfunding Your Comic Books Into Reality” with Morgan Quaid (@morgan_quaid): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-606-crowdfunding-your-comic-books-into-reality-with-morgan-quaid-morgan_quaid/ 248.5 (Host 2 Host Special) – “A Self-Kick of Positivity” with Shelley Knight (@ShelleyFKnight): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/2485-host-2-host-special-a-self-kick-of-positivity-with-shelley-knight-shelleyfknight/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ 247 – “Cozy Mysteries & Inclusive Children's Books” with Kelly Brakenhoff (@inBrakenVille): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/247-cozy-mysteries-inclusive-childrens-books-with-kelly-brakenhoff-inbrakenville/ Ep. 757 – Fostering Cats Into an Award-Winning Children's Book Series with Christine Milkovic Krauss: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-757-fostering-cats-into-an-award-winning-childrens-book-series-with-christine-milkovic-krauss/ Ep. 522 – “Peanut the Penguin” with Aruna Lepore (@ArunaMLepore): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-522-peanut-the-penguin-with-aruna-lepore-arunamlepore/ Ep. 586 – “Flipping Bad Situations into Joyful Children's Books” with Violet Lemay (@violetlemay): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-586-flipping-bad-situations-into-joyful-childrens-books-with-violet-lemay-violetlemay/ Ep. 681 – “Make Someone's Moment Through Podcasting” with Kelly Smith: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-681-make-someones-moment-through-podcasting-with-kelly-smith/ Ep. 483 – “Baby Aviva Orangutan Diva” with Hans Kullberg (@AvivasDaddy) #BABYAVIVA: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-483-baby-aviva-orangutan-diva-with-hans-kullberg-avivasdaddy-babyaviva/ Ep. 559 - "Picky Patrick" With Eleni Fuiaxis (@EleniFuiaxis): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-559-picky-patrick-with-eleni-fuiaxis-elenifuiaxis/ Ep. 720 – “Unleashing Your Creative Potential” with Michaell Magrutsche (@michaellart): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-720-unleashing-your-creative-potential-with-michaell-magrutsche-michaellart/ Ep. 775 – From Blogging Mom to Award-Winning #KidLit Author with Caroline Fernandez (@ParentClub): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-775-from-blogging-mom-to-award-winning-kidlit-author-with-caroline-fernandez-parentclub/

CSAIL's Dr. Neil Thompson joins Kara Miller for a conversation on how AI will affect the future of business. Dr. Thompson also shares insights into the race for computing power and how that competition is shaping the landscape of industry. Find more about Dr. Neil Thompson and his research, as well as a transcript of this podcast at http://cap.csail.mit.edu/podcasts/ais-impact-future-work-neil-thompson.

"The most common threat that the dark web poses for a disinformation point of view, however, is ...the fact that many marketplaces on the dark web host tools which can be used for disinformation. Manufacturing it, spreading it, monitoring it, so on and so forth." On this episode, host Paul Brandus explores the hidden parts of the Internet known as the deep web and the dark web. The deep web refers to the unindexed parts of the Internet, such as databases and private networks, while the dark web is a subset of the deep web that requires specific software and authorization to access. The dark web provides anonymity and heavy encryption, making it attractive for those seeking to manufacture and distribute false information, or disinformation. The dark web has been used to spread conspiracy theories and false information during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the sale of fake vaccines and forged health certificates. It also facilitates criminal scams, such as pump and dump schemes and ransomware attacks. Tune in to learn about the involvement of state actors like Russia and China in spreading disinformation on the dark web, as well as the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in combating these activities. [00:04:20] Dark web and disinformation. [00:11:28] Russian and Chinese dark web activities. [00:15:55] Policing the dark web. [00:20:18] The dark web and ransomware attacks. Got questions, comments or ideas or an example of disinformation you'd like us to check out? Send them to paulb@emergentriskinternational.com. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Special thanks to our guest Neil Thompson, our sound designer and editor Noah Foutz, audio engineer Nathan Corson, and executive producers Michael DeAloia and Gerardo Orlando. Thanks so much for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Stephanie K and Jay welcome Pastor West and Neil Thompson to the studio.  Our discussion centers around an exciting event happening December 23rd at the Dort Financial Center from 11am to 2pm.  For more information on this event you can visit their website by clicking here

“It's important for kids to see themselves in books they read.” – Tonya Duncan EllisToday's featured award-winning bestselling author is mom, wife, freelance writer, speaker, and diversity advocate, Tonya Duncan Ellis. Tonya and I had a chat about her books, her commitment to children's literature, the importance of learning about history, and more!! Key Things You'll Learn:The major reason for Tonya selling over 150,000 booksHow she balances book writing and motherhoodThree mistakes to avoid as an author when promoting your book(s)Tonya's biggest setback that led her to more success Tonya's Site: https://tonyaduncanellis.com/Tonya's Books: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084GKH6BC?binding=hardcover&ref=dbs_m_mng_rwt_sft_thcv_tpbk The opening track is titled "Money Trees" by the magnanimous chill-hop master, Marcus D (@marcusd). Be sure to visit his site and support his craft. https://marcusd.net/Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmon You Might Also Like… Ep. 582 – “Shaping the World Through Great Stories for All Ages” with Natasha Deen (@natasha_deen): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-582-shaping-the-world-through-great-stories-for-all-ages-with-natasha-deen-natasha_deen/ Ep. 487 – “Black Indian” with Shonda Buchanan (@shondabuchanan): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-487-black-indian-with-shonda-buchanan-shondabuchanan/ #Holiday Bonus Ep. – “Read Until You Understand” with Dr. Farah Griffin (@FJasmineG): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/holiday-bonus-ep-read-until-you-understand-with-dr-farah-griffin-fjasmineg/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ Ep. 682 – “Leadership Begins with Motivation” with Dr. Danny Brassell (@DannyBrassell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-682-leadership-begins-with-motivation-with-dr-danny-brassell-dannybrassell/ Ep. 586 – “Flipping Bad Situations into Joyful Children's Books” with Violet Lemay (@violetlemay): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-586-flipping-bad-situations-into-joyful-childrens-books-with-violet-lemay-violetlemay/ Ep. 559 - "Picky Patrick" With Eleni Fuiaxis (@EleniFuiaxis): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-559-picky-patrick-with-eleni-fuiaxis-elenifuiaxis/ Ep. 344.5 – “Poohlicious” with Mary Elizabeth Jackson (@Mary_E_Jackson): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-3445-poohlicious-with-mary-elizabeth-jackson-mary_e_jackson/ 224 – “A Ride to Remember” with Amy Nathan (@AmyNathanBooks): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/224-a-ride-to-remember-with-amy-nathan-amynathanbooks/ Ep. 342.5 – “The Little Bear in a Boat” with Takelia Hammett: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-3425-the-little-bear-in-a-boat-with-takelia-hammett/ 150 - "Princess Monroe and Her Happily Ever After" with Jody Vallee Smith: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/150-princess-monroe-and-her-happily-ever-after-with-jody-vallee-smith/ 11 - "VICTORIOUS!: Defeating Bullies and Giants God's Way" with Darnnell Reese (@Victorious_wGOD): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/11-victorious-defeating-bullies-and-giants-gods-way-with-darnnell-reese-victorious_wgod/ Ep. 664 – “The Power of Thought” with Lynn McLaughlin, MEd, BEd, BA (@lynnmcla): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-664-the-power-of-thought-with-lynn-mclaughlin-med-bed-ba-lynnmcla/ Ep. 592 – “There Is A Rainbow In Everyone” with Zsata Williams-Spinks (@zsata): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-592-there-is-a-rainbow-in-everyone-with-zsata-williams-spinks-zsata/

In this episode of Navigating Major Programmes, Riccardo Cosentino sits down to reflect on the conversations during the first season of Navigating Major Programmes and what he's learned about the industry because of them. Plus, Riccardo shares why he started a podcast in the first place and his final thoughts before taking a brief break ahead of an exciting season two. “The opportunity to sit down and interact with individuals who have spent six months researching a specific major programme topic and engaging into a debate about their findings and their conclusions has been very, very inspiring for me. To a point where all my initial concerns and fears of starting a podcast have now completely vanished and I'm really looking forward to building upon the first season of Navigating Major Programmes and bringing even more in-depth topics in season two.” —Riccardo Cosentino  Key Takeaways: The importance of being an ally for women in major programmes (listen to episodes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5)Collaborative contracting as an alternative in complex programmes (listen to episodes 6, 10, 11 and 15)Leadership in major programmes (listen to episodes 7, 12 and 14)Setting the right expectation of technology in major programmes (listen to episodes 8 and 13)  If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox. The conversation doesn't stop here—connect and converse with our LinkedIn community: Navigating Major Programmes PodcastRiccardo CosentinoTranscript:Riccardo Cosentino  00:00If you're listening to navigate the major programs, the podcast that aims to elevate the conversations happening in the infrastructure industry and inspire you to have a more efficient approach within it. I'm your host Riccardo Cosentino I bring over 20 years of major programme management experience. Most recently, I graduated from Oxford universities Said business school, which shook my belief when it comes to navigating major problems. Now it's time to shake yours. Join me in each episode as a press the industry experts about the complexity of major problem management, emerging digital trends and the critical leadership required to approach these multibillion dollar projects. Let's see where the conversation takes us.  Hello, and welcome to a new episode on navigating major programs. This episode will be the final episode in Season One. And in this episode, I will try to recap the topics that we covered in the first 15 podcasts. I will try to also recap the guests that join the podcast and the themes that we covered in the 15 episodes. But before I go into that, I think it's important that I also tried to recap and remind ourselves why I started the podcast in the first place.  I started this podcast for two reasons. The first one was a personal reason which was wanted to overcome my fear of public speaking, I wanted to practice the skills of interacting with guests and to record myself and listen to myself and overcome this cringe that we all have in listening ourselves speaking. And it was very important to me, it was very important for my journey to always become a better leader, I really wanted to put myself out of my comfort zone.  But the second reason which is to be more addressed stick is I wanted to create a platform for individuals that don't normally have access to these type of platforms such as podcasts and blogs. The idea really started from when I was finishing my dissertation at Oxford. And I realized that I just spent six months researching a topic using very rigorous academic research methods. And most likely the now the dissertation will probably end up on my bookshelf. And I also realized that in my class, there were another 60 People who had created similar research of similar standards. And also then I realized that because I was part of cohort 12, at Oxford for the master major program management, there were approximately 700 People who had written dissertation who had research, major program topics, and most of them probably never talked about the research. So those were the two main reasons why I started the podcast. But as you probably realize the first five episodes of the podcast was actually a mini series called Building Bridges. And the reason I started with a mini series is because I was very scared of getting the podcast off the ground, I had a huge amount of impostor syndrome. And so together with with my personal brand coach, we decided to actually create a mini series so that it wouldn't be too daunting. It wouldn't be a full podcast, and it was going to be a bit more manageable with a limited number of episodes in a very limited topic, which was the experience of women in working a male dominated industry. However, as I was launching the miniseries, and by the way, the miniseries took me two years to launch because I recorded the first podcast in 2020. And I ended up launching it in 2023. So I should have been more than two years, it took me more than two years to launch the podcast. But when I ended up doing it, when I started recording the second and third episode, I got really galvanized and decided to bite the bullet and to actually launch the full podcast. And that's how we ended up having navigated major programs together with building bridges, women in infrastructure.  I also picked the woman infrastructure topic because I'm a big ally to women. And I think our industry needs more women. And so I felt this was a topic very close to me, and probably a very easy place to start since I was quite confident about the topic. So in building bridges, we started with Mariska Pinto and she came in talk to us about being the only woman in the room and the challenges have been in a male dominated environment at the beginning of our career. We then had Corrail Bourrelier Fabiani, who has now become a regular guest as well as co host of the podcast where she discussed the importance of allyship. Then I decided to have an old colleague of mine, Hannelie Stockenstrom, who is being a big role model for me and also represented somebody in an advanced stage of our career, and somebody that is really passionate about infrastructure. Then in episode four, we had Divya Shah joining us and talking about how labels put limits on what women can achieve and how labels are detrimental to the advancement of women. And then finally, in Episode Five, we had my ex colleague Shormila Chatterjee, that came to talk to us about gender bias and their experience with gender bias, being an engineer, managing engineers, and getting pushback from these engineers because she was a female. Overall, the biggest lesson learned for the miniseries is that ally ship is very, very important. All women described how in a male dominated environment, some sort of allyship is necessary, because there just aren't enough women at the top. So if women want to try to make at the top in a male dominated industry, they need the support of men.  Once I concluded building bridges, women in infrastructure I launched right into navigating major programs. As I mentioned before, the podcast was meant to give a platform to some of my classmates who had done extensive research on major program topics and didn't really have a platform to present their findings. So I started with several guests. And we followed three major themes. We talked about collaborative contracts, we talked about leadership in general leadership in major programs. And then we talked about technology and technology in major programs. There was also one episode where I invited back Corail to talk about her dissertation, which was linked to building bridges. But we were able to do a deep dive into a very interesting topic, which was, Do women need to play golf in order to lead major programs, and Corail was able to articulate the importance of women networks and how fundamental women networks are for the success of women and major projects in general.  In the collaborative contracts stream, we talk to Carol Tansley, about the use of IPD in nuclear mega projects. We also talk to Rachel Patel, about the use of integrated project delivery or IPD in the healthcare sector in Ontario for mega hospitals. And we looked at the strand for challenges of integrated project delivery in the Ontario context.  Then we also talk to Vicenta Cunha about the use of collaborative contracting in the procurement of oil rigs and in general ships and the use of schedule incentive for the completion of mega project on time. And then finally, in the collaborative contract stream, I had a bit of a role reversal, where I invited my classmate and podcast guest, Jim, to actually be the host and interview me so that I could present my research about the use of collaborative contracting in PPPs. Overall, the collaborative contract streams told us that although these forms of contract are not widely used, they're not new. And they can provide a very good alternative to standard contracting models used for large complex programs. And in fact, they may actually be a better contracting model for complex programs.  We also had a leadership stream, which had three episodes. And in these free episodes, we had Jim Barnard coming in to talk to us about his dissertation, which was centered around practical major program leadership. Then I had my very first solo podcast where I talked about the cost of bad leadership in major programs. And then finally, we had Dr. Diana Nada, who came in talk to us about our PhD dissertation on the psychology of major programs.  The biggest takeaway from this leadership focus episode is that major programs are delivered by people and people are at the center of their success. So we can have a show or a podcast about major programs without talking about the people in the major programs.  And then finally, we had a stream about technology. We had my classmate, Kimberley Heraux, coming in and talking about intelligent technology, major programs. And then I did a collaboration with the digital twin fan club where Henry-Fenby Taylor and Neal Thompson, from the digital twin fan club came in and had a discussion with me about the challenges of adopting technology, major programs, and how can technology help major programs moving forward? I think the most important takeaway from the technology stream is actually a quote from Neil Thompson, where he says they think, "Oh, we're going to be able to predict the future are actually the value of these things isn't about being able to predict the future is about being able to adapt as quickly as possible to change circumstances".  As we come to an end, which is a one on navigating major programs, I want to take the time to reflect on how inspiring the last 15 episodes have been, for me, the opportunity to sit down and interact with individuals who have spent six months researching a specific major program topic, and engaging into a into a debate about their findings. And their conclusion has been very, very inspiring for me to a point where all of my initial concerns and fears of starting a podcast have now completely vanished. And I'm really, really looking forward about building upon the first season of navigating major programs, and bringing even more in depth topic in season two. My plan is to take them off for December and January off, I will be producing the new episode in January. And I'm hoping to be able to launch Season Two sometime in February 2024. In the meanwhile, you can still listen to the podcasts that are available where you get your podcasts. And I will also interact through my navigate imager programs LinkedIn page, which is now available in case you want to find other material related to the podcast.  So for now, thank you very much for joining me over the last several months. I hope you found these podcasts interesting. And I hope that you're going to join me again for season two. Until then, I wish you happy holidays and prosper New Year. We'll see you soon in 2024.  That's it for this episode on navigating major problems. I hope you found today's conversation as informative and thought provoking as I did. If you enjoyed this conversation, please consider subscribing and leaving a review. I would also like to personally invite you to continue the conversation by joining me on my personal LinkedIn at Riccardo Cosentino. Listening to the next episode, where we will continue to explore the latest trends and challenges in major program management. Our next in depth conversation promises to continue to dive into topics such as leadership risk management, and the impact of emerging technology in infrastructure. It's a conversation you're not going to want to miss. Thanks for listening to navigate the major programs and I look forward to keeping the conversation going. Music: "A New Tomorrow" by Chordial Music. Licensed through PremiumBeat.DISCLAIMER: The opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by the hosts and guests on this podcast do not necessarily represent or reflect the official policy, opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints of Disenyo.co LLC and its employees.

Neil Thompson holds degrees in materials engineering and biomedical engineering. Neil has held roles as a product development engineer, freelance writer, patent agent, professional speaker, business development manager, author and company founder. You can find him online at teachthegeek.com, askuncleneilbooks.com, & youtube.teachthegeek.com.Aaron Moncur, hostAbout Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us

In this episode, Riccardo sits down with two of the voices behind the Digital Twin Fun Club podcast, Henry Fenby-Taylor and Neil Thompson. The trio speaks accuracy versus bias and how technology (digital twins specifically) can help mitigate risk within the complex world of infrastructure.   “I think people generally have the wrong expectation of technology. They think ‘Oh, we're going to be able to predict the future.' Actually the value of these things isn't about being able to predict the future, it's about being able to adapt as quickly as possible to changing circumstances.”  –Neil Thompson Key Takeaways:  Defining a digital twin, the difference between a BIM and digital twinThe true value of technology (spoiler alert: it is not about predicting the future)The transition from sourcing the “cheapest” to “best” solutionMajor programmes as a symphony, an analogy of perspectiveCollaboration through technology for parallel problem solving approach Links Mentioned:  Benedict Evans' PresentationsNoise by Daniel KahnemanBent Flyvbjerg's How Big Things Get Done If you enjoyed this episode, make sure and give us a five star rating and leave us a review on iTunes, Podcast Addict, Podchaser or Castbox. The conversation doesn't stop here—connect and converse with our community: Follow Henry Fenby-Taylor on LinkedInFollow Neil Thompson on LinkedInFollow Digital Twin Fun Club Podcast on LinkedInFollow Riccardo Cosentino on LinkedInNavigating Major Programmes on LinkedIn Transcript:Riccardo Cosentino  00:00If you're listening to navigate the major programs, the podcast that aims to elevate the conversations happening in the infrastructure industry and inspire you to have a more efficient approach within it. I'm your host Riccardo Cosentino I bring over 20 years of major product management experience. Most recently, I graduated from Moxa universities they business group, which shook my belief when it comes to navigating major problems. Now it's time to shake yours. Join me in each episode as a press the industry experts about the complexity of major problem management, emerging digital trends and the critical leadership required to approach these multibillion dollar projects. Let's see where the conversation takes us. Hello, everyone. Welcome to another episode of navigating major programs. Today I'm joined by two guests from the digital twin fun club. Gonna let them introduce themselves. Henry Fenby-Taylor  01:04Hi, I'm Henry Fenby Taylor, host of the digital twin fan club, podcast and editor and coordinator and I also run my own digital transformation and communications consultancy. Hi, Neil Thompson01:18Hi everyone. I'm Neil Thompson. I'm a digital fanclub cleaner owner and co founder, I guess, their day job I work at AtkinsRéalis, and I do things around digital transformation. I also have some other hats around the industry, my chair, the built environment for the Institute of Engineering Technology, also lucky enough to have gained an Honorary Associate Professor of the Bartlett School of sustainable construction, all things. Construction economics related. So I'm really interested to have this conversation because I've, I've been listening to some episodes and really fascinated in this sort of world between digital tools and how we incentivize people to do things is fascinating. So I'm looking forward to the conversation. Riccardo Cosentino  02:08Yeah, me too. Definitely. I'd well if we're comparing hats. I'm also on the construction industry councils. Net Zero climate change panel, and then CIC 2050, board member of a core member of zero construct as well. So I have a very strong interest in net zero in this space as well. Which is a key economic question, isn't it? Really?  Yes. Especially today with the especially in the UK, especially today with a big news from last week? Ya know, um, you know, I'm Riccardo Cosentino I think the listeners know me, and I think today, I'm really keen to explore, you know, how can digital tools, digital twin help us navigate the major programs? I have cheeky and cheesy really trying to make a comparison there. I think digital twin and digital tools today are like the Google Maps of for navigating major problems, while in the old days, we used to just have maps. And so I think it's, it's an important intersection. As project complexity gets bigger and bigger. So to the tool that we need to manage that complexity need to need to be adopted. And, you know, that's, that's my contribution to this podcast. Henry Fenby-Taylor  03:35Absolutely. Yeah, absolutely. I think it's a very key issue. So we always start with what is a digital twin, I feel that there is often uncertainty, or lack of clarity around that. And I feel like adding some definitions to that will give us some simplicity. And then people can know what we're talking about. I've got my own definitions, but I'll let you go first, Neil. Neil Thompson04:03Oh, cheeky. I, so I got a, I have two views of digital twins. One is sort of the variation of, you know, we need to represent physical assets in a digital way. And hence the digital twin. And we use a series of technologies to achieve that. My other end of the telescope definition of it is we're connecting critical national infrastructure to the internet at different levels of maturity. So one end of the end of maturity is existing things that work today. There's things that we're planning for the future. And then there's things that we're building in between and all those things have some sort of interface with the internet, which may sound a bit strange saying it that way, but it's it's for me, it's just connecting these things together digitally with Henry Fenby-Taylor  04:59jazz I can't believe I've got to say jazz first and about gas. So my definition of a digital twin is that it is a system where there is a real thing that we are trying to manage or look after. And it could be designed simulate, construct, operate, you know, or it could be at the highest level of strategy, there's a thing that we need to manage. And so many things are complex, obviously, major programs are very complex, organizationally, technically, what they're trying to do, very complex. And so we need a better understanding of that real thing by measuring digitally understanding in a system that can tell us what is really happening with that system. Not only do we have good interfaces, so it's not just about having a nice dashboard. But it's about empowering people to make better decisions on the coalface of their job, right? From the very, most operational on the tools level, all the way up to strategic direction, measuring key performance indicators. And I think it's that connection by Neil says that Internet of infrastructure, it's bringing things together in a way that's not been done before. Because it's quite a complex sector is it's a complex supply chain, the word you could take an aspect of major programs, indeed, infrastructure in general, and probably apply the word complex to it quite safely. So I think, to move us on, I think that's a great definition. We've done our definitions of digital twins. So we know what we're talking about. Riccardo Cosentino  06:50Maybe there are five, yeah, if I may just stick to one. Because I mean, North America, where I'm from in, Canada's specially I think there's still a lack of understanding. And I think since we're defining, I think it'd be helpful and probably going to open a can of worms, since I've listened to your podcast in the past. But what's the difference between a BIM and a digital twin? Henry Fenby-Taylor  07:17Well, good question. Now, I have the true answer. But it's not very simple, which is that digital twins didn't come from the built environment, but didn't come from construction that didn't come from infrastructure, they came from NASA, originally, the original concept for we have a shuttle in space, and we keep building physical mock ups of this thing. So why don't we go to digital one, and then not only can we plan, model it and send up into space, and manage it remotely, we can create a better system for the design for the whole system for design, construction use. And so because it came from that route, it's difficult for the built environment, because we had a thing for that, when the digital twins came to us that design simulate side was an is already being done by them. So, I am not fussy about where you call your digital twin, because it could be your managing your factory line and your system. So you are trying to make maximize efficiency in say, building a building, or in the design. But I am not precious about it. If people want to say, you know, BIM is over here, in the design phase, and digital twin is over there. That's their choice. It is because of its origins, slightly complex, but effectively, a digital twin can cover the whole remit. And be, have been as part of it. Neil Thompson08:57Yeah, and we, at the end of the day, it's better to make a mistake in cyberspace than it is to do it in physical space. So just thinking about the Navigating of major programs, let's not go wrong in real life. It's really hard to fix. It's really hard to see. And unless Yeah, I'm with Henry on that one. It's, you know, let's, let's go and make a Digital Sandbox and work out and make a plan there is build, build the plan and execute that plan. And then and obviously, we in the world of major programs are very complex, involve lots of people and generally go for a really long period of time. So things change, where the environment changes, economic circumstances change. So my frustration with all of this is to is in two parts. One is I think people generally have a wrong expectation of technology. They think, Oh, we're going to be able to predict the future. Actually, the value of these things isn't isn't about being be able to predict the future is about being able to adapt as quickly as possible to change in circumstances. And that's where we need to get people on board is this Henry Fenby-Taylor  10:09is this from the I think you've got me to read Tim Harford's book adapt. That was yes. And that was very influential for my thinking on digital twins, where you are, again, you're trying to empower people through technology, not trying to take decisions away or automate things away. You're trying to give people the ability to react to changing circumstances. And, you know, just things like the teams are making major programs change massively, constantly. So you have a constant onboarding, and off boarding of knowledge and expertise. And it can be really difficult to capture that. So creating systems that mirror they were originally called digital twins, originally called information, model mirrors, that mirror what's happening, just allows people to get up to speed quicker allows people to make better decisions faster. Riccardo Cosentino  11:05I really liked that. It was one of the definition of a major programs, which I absolutely having a spot on the major programs are complex adaptive systems, to only they are complex, but they change. And so you're now dealing with, you know, an I think an equivalent to a complex adaptive system is is a flock of birds 1000s of birds flying to the sky, and somehow they do they unison, but it feels like they're doing Unison but they don't. And so that's, that's an equivalent of a complex adaptive system. Henry Fenby-Taylor  11:40I'm going to ask myself an interesting question on that. Does the does any individual bird know what the flock is doing? Or are they just responding to some fairly simple rules at a quite an immediate, you know, that the flock is created by birds with a similar drive all that with, say, a common goal, you know, they're all going to migrate all reacting to each other using very similar rules. And it is sort of organic emergent system creates, emerges, an emergent system emerges. And I think that's the beauty of major programs is that they work at all? Neil Thompson12:24You've heard no. I've got, let's go on a journey. Right? So probably when I was growing, so what No, just just one point, I used to work for really big, you know, construction companies. And the thing that always used to strike me we've we've all was you can stand still on a building site and look around, and it doesn't look like much is happening. But the job gets done. The how people come together at that scale is really interesting, because sometimes you can't, you can't stand there and physically sit. So there's a thing here and digital systems like this, the only way that you can have visibility of it because people are behind things. They're in the office, they didn't there's so much stuff happening, not one person can stand on a platform and look at everything. So that's that's something I find interesting. So it's back to what you said about the flock of birds. So this is this is something I've always wanted to the types of listen that listeners you have Ricardo and those in the space of finance and designing contracts. This is this is something that I've always the pitch that I've always wanted to make in from a digital perspective, because I feel like we're two worlds that don't communicate that much. There's this sort of capability of technology and those that design contracts and sort of somewhat oblivious of each other, but have a vital role to play. So one is back to your flock of birds. So think about an economics, right, we have we think of the price mechanism. So we infer the quality of something through its price. But I think we've sort of reached a point now where the price mechanism is somewhat defunct, we just because it's expensive doesn't necessarily mean it's the best. And there's a great I don't if you know who Benedict Evans is. Ben is Evans is sort of a commentator on technology trends over time. He gave a presentation in 2021. And if you have show notes, I can provide you a link, he this slides that he created was about sentiment of search on for consumers over time. And it has two lines, it has a line for the sentiment for the best and sentiment for the cheapest and in 2004 Everyone went on the internet and search for the cheapest then up to about 2008 It was the number one sentiment on the internet. And then this line called the best I want to find the best not the cheapest took over and it's just skyrocketed since. So this sort of price mechanism thing our flock of birds and like the internet as a proxy for Okay, people turned up and use it to find the cheapest thing they quickly found. out there, we'll find the cheapest thing actually isn't the best outcome, searching the internet and using the information that we have stored in the internet about products, reviews, quality, consistency, what have you means that instead of searching, give me other no trainers for cheapest. It's given me, what is the best for the use that I need? And modern internet searches. And just think about when you go and buy things. How regularly do you go, I'm just gonna go get the cheapest thing is interesting. So the world of consumer products has changed. And I think we're in we're in that point of 2008. Those that have been designing contracts have kind of the kid themselves to say they've been after quality, but they it by accident, I think I don't think it's through sort of any malicious intent or just the way because of the lack of information, we can only go by the price mechanism. But now with with the systems, they are digital twins and what have you, we can ask better questions of our data. So instead of sort of being rushed for time, the best thing that we can do is just just just give us your best price. And we'll go with that. We're now in the space of well performance, and what is what is best for the outcome. So you can't do that at that technology. So this is back to my analogy of standing there on a building site. Just because you can stand there physically see, it doesn't mean that you've got a true picture of performance, you have to have a digital understanding of the landscape to, to get underneath the surface of how well that's going. Henry Fenby-Taylor  16:23Adding to that I feel the contract. Artifact contracts themselves are legal documents, they do not flex, much over time, but generally, you know, they won't flex at all. So there is a real pressure when you are trying to procure to get the best deal. And to somehow know everything in advance before you start. And I think we all know that with the best will in the world. That can't happen. And the emergence of new paradigms of delivery through software and technology, where things are much more incremental, has challenged at dynamic of, here's your contract, you've got 12 months, here's the money go away, make me the thing, whether it's software, or an apple, and 12 months is definitely not long enough for an apple unless it's a really little one. But that it doesn't work. It fundamentally doesn't work. And you can't design a contract to make it work. You can design a contract to protect and to enforce and to give powers and all these sorts of things. But without that data that Neil's talking about, you are relying on judgment and or good practice goodwill, and then ultimately, litigation and, you know, take people to call. And there are much better mechanisms in between that, that we can introduce now that we can put into contracts that will make them operate better and give the outcomes people are looking for by adding that adding this measurement, this quality, as Neil calls it throughout. Riccardo Cosentino  18:22Yeah, and I think if we think of contracts for major programs, and I think it goes back to adaptability and being able to manage a complex adaptive system, and then the contracts that we have the typical lump sum turnkey, Neil's very familiar with his word, you know, they don't provide the flexibility that you know, you're supposed to give a fixed price today for something that is going to complete a seven, eight years from now, and assume that you can predict everything that is going to happen. I think the digital tools and digital twin will help you manage some of that, but the contract are certainly not set up to allow for adaptability, new contracts or they're not new, but like Alliance type contracting, collaborative contracting can help because they allow a better discussion instead of having an upfront discussion. It allows a discussion throughout the contract. And you're allowed to change some parameters, but it's ultimately it's it needs to we need to have an understanding that major programs adapt, have to adapt to changing circumstances. I mean, I mean, look, I just I just do what's happening now. Right? I mean, that's a perfect example of a contract that needs to be adapted. Henry Fenby-Taylor  19:41Yeah, absolutely. There's so many different factors at play here. It's political, its social. Its cost of living. It's all of these factors that come together. So yeah, I do think that creating these data insights on understanding can create better contracts. But it can also reduce risk and make projects more insurable. I've spoken to a number of insurance providers over the years and how they assess risk and cost risk and choose whether or not to cover a risk is the in this sort of artisanal, it's a skill, it's something you developed. And you have to, you know, you have to use your personal judgment to make those decisions with better data with better insight into what's happening, because you can use great data about what has happened past tense, and that can inform future decisions. But if you can drive those drive those insights all the way into the project, then you can really overcome some risks by understanding what's actually happening. Neil Thompson20:55Either of you read or know about Daniel Kahneman? I think it's his latest book noise. Oh, yeah. Yeah. So I think this is this is interesting, because if if the decision of a judge on its own, is, you know, there's two types of noisiness, there's the noisiness of the decision that you make, and then the noisiness of the process that you use to make that decision. Yes. And I think the same is here for contracts, right? They are inherently noisy, because it's based upon people's best opinion. Even when you get into the world of managing programs of any size, and people putting together Gantt charts and programs in Primavera P6, those are driven, they drive the decisions about how well that project is going. But they're sort of artifacts of people's opinions of where you roughly, it's not, it's not a scientific measure of, of quality progress and where you are, there isn't a device out there that can go and take a picture. To turn that into progress. It is the pm turns up to their team, how we're doing this week, where do you actually think we are against some sort of measure the measures usually is zero, 25% 50% 75%, or 100%. And you just scale that up, then the embedded noise of as you scale those for every layer, you know, the PM, probably gives that to a package manager, the package manager gives that sub project director, that project director is a dope Project Director of one area of maybe five Directorates, and then they come together and when the time it gets to the client, I mean, they're so far away from reality from a data perspective is, it's, it's quite scary. And if we think about the context of the application of AI, so in my, in my view of sort of the digital team world being a platform for this, the issue that we have is a little bit like the problem that we have with generative AI from chat GPT, if you ask it to make you an outline document for something, it's written from a Western or even more specific, more of like a Californian point of view, you'd have a point of view from that particular set of data. Now, if we're going to try and do the same in steering, the, you know, navigating major programs is you're going to set AI loose on a load of data that is just made up, right? How can that provide you any value, all it will say is, okay, instead of me asking the opinion of one P6 user, I can ask the opinion of all P6 users in history, but they're just, they're just artifacts of compound opinions. And we need to we need to break that somehow. So those those plans are built in a way that are relevant to the evidence that we have in datasets are collected from real life, not these intermediate trees in between this sort of management layers Henry Fenby-Taylor  23:5875% Complete. It's thinking about that that noise, analogy, accuracy, you know, you're trying to hit a target. And there is the big target at the end on time on budget, or even under budget under time. And high quality, great feedback. And that's a big target over there. But everybody is no such as hitting these small weekly daily targets that they have to hit. And we need better data. Yes. The data that we have has this bias in it. So if you are aiming for a target and consistently missing it in the same way, so you've got a bullseye in front of you and it's it's always hitting in the bottom right then you know that your your targeting is off. And this is the opportunity but it is the work that needs to be done because we have these targets we've not been computing them. So when you do compute them And you just scale this bias massively. And so, accuracy versus bias, but then you have the issue of of the noise as well, in the fact of, you know, different people act differently under different circumstances. So we need to align how people aim for targets, as well. And that's, that's data is also about not only what you measure, but how you ask for it, how you get it, and what it's for. Neil Thompson25:31It's interesting you say about two people. So my, in my research, in my dissertation, there was a question about risk preferences. And what I found systematically across the I think there's like 110, people that I managed to get the opinion of people systematically had a different risk appetite to their organization. So it's interesting, you ask them questions that sort of sets the risk appetite of the organization that they work for. And you ask a slightly different set of questions that sets the risk appetite of the individual. And there's always a huge, huge gap. It doesn't mean that organizations are less risky than people, it's, it's actually a bit more noisier than that. But it's interesting if organizations are just a collection of people that come together, that gap between the organization being risk averse, and the individual being risky for examples and in interesting thing, because that person's decisions, makes a huge impact on the macro risk appetite of the organization. And this, and this is what took me from your last episode, Ricardo was this the the stuff around behavioral economics. And I think the interesting thing, for me, is, the way that we design incentivization, at the broadest level is sort of is the same sort of difference between macroeconomics and microeconomics, or of macroeconomics. Back in the days before the internet and being able to collect data, they had to make some massive assumptions about how economies work. So they created macroeconomics, they made all these assumptions about how, you know, GDP, and all these sort of government level measurements. And, and then the behavioral economics comes around and said, well, actually, you know, people aren't having a generous, they all behave differently, they all come together in different ways. And there's a gap, and we're in this, we're in this space now, where we've never had the technology to be able to do the human, granular level thing. It's just too difficult to measure. But we're entering that world. Now we're in this, despite where you want to call it through marketing, call it digital twins or whatever. But we are in the world of being a like, the technology is now there. Five years ago, maybe even sooner, the technology wasn't available to us to manage information at this scale.  Riccardo Cosentino  27:54So I, you know, I just wanted you because it's something that I've been listening attentively, potentially. And it sounds to me that the digital twin to BIM call it whatever we want to call it, but and then I, and I think I know this anecdotally that I was really developed, the BIM model, especially with developers, a collaborative tool is a way of bringing, or bringing people with different disciplines in the in the in the building. So you have many contractor and designer, your your architects and bring them all together around one single model, so that they can collaborate and solve problems together rather than have. So I have a parallel problem solving approach rather than a sequence, problem solving approach, which was the old days where, you know, one, one engineer would finish the work, pass it to the next one was the next one. And so you, you end up with a problem at the end, and you got to go back to the beginning to fix it while would be am, I assume you can sit around the table, if everybody's got the technology, if you ever set it up properly, to actually address problems as they arise together. And in Neil Thompson29:05to this established techniques. So in so in Stanford's, they teach virtual designing construction, and they have a whole module on weather called concurrent engineering, which what this is, this is all about, because in order to understand, if you're going to get a load of decision makers together every week, there's coordination that happens, the other side of that, in terms of all the information that you've got to make sure that let's take a building of a bridge, you know, is your design of your bridge in the same part of the world as mine is over all the other coordinates, right? That's the most basic thing, because believe it or not, before that they could be in completely different places that could be in different units. You know, that's why things have went wrong previously, because someone's in the Imperial zones in in metric, and they don't align. So there's all these sort of basic things about concurrent engineering about just pure coordination. Are we all looking at the same thing? As your does your thing, that was my thing. There's the m&e bit with the structure. And all those sorts of things. The the interesting outcome of that, from my perspective, and this is the really, and this is what I, if I had to make any point to this, this group of listeners is technology lowers the barrier of entry, and enables anyone to have a high level of capability, right? So, and the danger of that is, we essentially subsidize a sub optimal design process. So what we shouldn't be doing is design over here, and digital twin over there. And they, they sort of come together eventually. But they are the two of the same thing, let's not create a BIM process over there to check the design, to show that the design doesn't work. All that does is makes designers lazy, and a bit of someone else can worry about the coordination. If it's going to work later. It's making sure that we create these tools within the design process. Because that's where we get into this waterfall issue of finding out the problems later before it's too late to fix it, because we didn't do all the smart stuff. As a first step, we did the smart stuff at the ends check, right? Let's not have the exam at the end of the year, let's have continuous assessment of what we're doing. Henry Fenby-Taylor  31:19I have an interesting analogy. This goes back to an old digital twin Franklin podcast with Neil and Alan Waha, about how is the construction sector, like the music sector when we were talking about digital and now you need a digital first process before you can even move into that space. But I conjured the amusing mental image by writing a post on it recently that actually, what a lot of programs and systems look like now is we ask a group of people to make a symphony together. They make this wonderful symphony and they record it. And they will show it to you though you can listen to it. But that you can't have that you only are allowed the sheet music at the end. So you've gone through this whole process of thinking, and realizing. But because we are bound by certain deliverables and certain processes, that will know that we couldn't possibly give you the recording. Here's the sheet music now you can get somebody else to go play that even though we've already done it made secure proof of my knowledge you nail Neil Thompson32:28that is beautiful, because what will you get on to and this is the internet. And this is the interesting thing about contract design is if you give anybody the sheet music, it will sound differently. If you gave a machine a sheet music, it will sound robotic, it will it will play it precisely to time. The nuance about why a symphony sounds great played live is because it has all these human inaccuracies come together that makes it sound the way it does me can't hear any of us. That's why the London Symphony Orchestra is different to the San Francisco Symphony Orchestra. Right? So the the issue here is is how do we that that sort of that organic stuff that happens between the lines of the contract is finding better ways of incentivizing people beyond that. And it's it's interest because we're in this world of these discussions about buying based on value. So most most of consultancies are in the world of like, selling people per the hour isn't good in terms of growth, because we have to acquire companies all the time and said more and more people. And that's not sustainable, because there's only a finite number of people on Earth. So it's that that growth model comes to an end naturally. So there's this conversation about value. But then when we look at the contracts that we have, yes, the unitary production value is a person in over an hour or whatever. But the other side of it is then also the all that we're competing for, is the essentially been exposed to the risk of getting it wrong. Like that's the thing. That's that is why so people say, oh, you know, some technology firms going to come along and eat up, you know, take over construction or take over engineering design, the reality is, it's probably not going to happen, because they're not willing to take on the risk of getting it wrong. And people like myself, and we're kind of we are like we we bring these systems together to take on that risk. The day that a technology company goes, Yeah, we're going to provide the technology, the service, and we'll take the risk on for getting it wrong, then we are in trouble. But I can't see shareholders, big or small startups, big technology firms. Name name a big name a big design vendor beginning with A or B, that, you know, imagine them turning around to their shareholders and say we're going to design bridges and we're going to take on the the the liability of the design of those bridges. The shareholders are going to sign off on that because they said because they will say no, we buy the shares and sit on your board because you do this business. If I want to take on the risk of building bridges. I'm gonna go and buy shares in engineering firms, not software firms. So that's, that's another dimension. Here's beyond the contract is the incentive of the people that own the mean, own the capital. Right. Henry Fenby-Taylor  35:10It's, it's interesting, because I want to address your earlier points. But I feel like that's quite a western approach. I feel that, you know, I mean, Samsung was effectively government sponsored, is effectively government sponsored, lots of history there. And it doesn't actually make a lot of profit, but it makes a lot of stuff. And it employs a lot of people. And a tradition in Toyota is that the eldest son, and his son, who is adopted, even if he's 50 years old, goes and starts a new business, and they look to diversify. And then they can potentially in some of these things fail, some of these things work. And you would, you would follow this sort of route, if you could own all the risk. And I think that's part of it. The reason that the construction sector is structured the way it is, because a lot of people inside the sector complain, that is the fragmentation. That's what's causes the problem. But the reason it's structured that way is to mitigate risk. Because that allows things to go wrong, that allows certain projects to fail, it allows certain products to fail, without the whole thing coming down. If you try and do it all together, you still can't control of the risks, you still can't control the cost of materials, because then you know, where do you stop? Where would you stop, if you wanted to do an end to end infrastructure company, you would need to own the quarries, you would need to own the logistics companies, you would need a stake in the logistics in the infrastructure, you would you know, and then you need all of the designers. I mean, it would be amazing. But this going all the way back to the symphony analogy, you can't write a major programs Symphony on your own, it is not, you know, a symphony is X number of instruments, you know, it needs that overall vision, and the composer can bring that, and then the conductor can turn that into something magical. But the in our analogy, the the violinist is also part of the composition team, as is that the percussion, you know, everybody has this part to play. So that is where the extra complexity comes in. And you can't just bring all of that stuff together, it needs to be in these disciplines for you know, being able to kind of mitigate this risk. But it's it's there in that we all want a symphony that basically has a handover, and that's when Rockstar architects often continue to get amazing commissions and go huge, they have a budget and over time. But they'll get the work because they there, you will feel the hand of the composer and there's that beauty to it. But if you're dealing with infrastructure services, you know, maybe I do want a pretty station every now and again. But ultimately, we're looking for that service delivery, we're looking for that efficiency. So we aren't going to have one composer that we can work better to ensure that, you know, to go back to this analogy, because I'm just going to keep using it because I really love this analogy. Everybody does their own composing, having been given a brief terms up to a meeting, and everybody plays their music all at once. And it's the first time anybody's heard it. And that's that's the negotiation process. Because that sounds awful. Everybody's you know, might not be in the same tempo might not be in the same key, you know, all these different issues. I'm not a music writer, by the way, I'm just, you know, I love this analogy. And I love going deep on these things. So this view of a symphony, this view of a major programmers, it's an organic, human interaction, by following digital processes, whether we call them digital twins or not, you know, like concurrent engineering, we can listen to the music and we can get together and we can make sure that we are in harmony earlier. Because there's so often that, you know, I've seen this on so many projects where, you know, different disciplines that we're managing will do a certain amount of work to a certain level with no regard to other people. And that means that you create all these problems, and that can be resolved, but it requires a very talented composer to make that happen. So that says, Riccardo Cosentino  39:35Let me let me take on that analogy, because I think is phenomenal. And we've actually done some work with an orchestra coming in and showing us teamwork through the eyes of an orchestra. Henry Fenby-Taylor  39:47So really, yeah, so did not know that's not a plan.  That was fascinating. But you know, ultimately, the way that an orchestra works, they're actually listening to each other live so you know the reader sheet music and Neil, you are musician, but they read a sheet music. But ultimately, there's live feedback that you receive for the other members of the orchestra and you adapt your play, and you also adapt to the to the conductor. And so I think if I, if I take the analogy further, if you have an orchestra of 10,000 people, there is no way that you can do that without the aid of a digital tool or something that helps you manage the volume of people and the volume of feedback that you have in an organization that big. So we now get into a scale of things where the human itself is not like a conductor won't be able to conduct 10,000 people, I can do 5060 you now start having 1000 10,000 You're gonna end multiple conductors, how do they are multiple conductor to to each other, but they're only handing over sheet music? Yes. Neil Thompson40:51So you're, you're, you're onto something that I, here's a thought experiment, okay.  Henry Fenby-Taylor  40:59I'm here for it Neil Thompson41:00building things we've been doing for a very long time. Arguably, there are other professions that are up for the competition of the longer the oldest profession, but building things soldier and coordinating things, we probably build things before we decided to protect them. So I'd go as far to say that coordinating people to build things is probably the, as a human endeavor, we've done the longest than other things apart from you know, childbirth, and all those sorts of things, right? It's one of them. It's probably the top five in the top five things we've been doing since the beginning of time, right? So my thought experiment is is is are we actually the most advanced industry in terms of trying to coordinate ourselves commercially, because we've been through that journey. And the reason the reason why I say that is the thing that fascinates me is how industries sort of consolidate, and diffuse and consolidate and diffuse over time. And what's happening with the digital implementation of the entertainment industry, I think it's an interesting thing, because in the music industry, you've got Spotify, and Apple music, itunes or whatever. There's some other ones, but they're like the two main players, right? Your Pepsi, coke, or those two. And if anything is probably just Spotify, I'd imagine the level of users I don't meet many people that aren't on Spotify. But anyway, so there's there's a high degree of consolidation in that space, which I think's interested in compared to movies and TV, where I'm almost to the point of thinking, there's all these subscriptions out there. You were if you wanted to have access to everything, you've got to subscribe to about 10 different services. And I think that markets on the route of being sort of broken and ripe for consolidation, I think we've, we've got this conundrum of are we going to be the symphony of 10,000 people that needs coordinating? Or is do we need sort of bring it together  breaking apart? Do any coming together? I have failing to get it to work from a digital perspective and how the tools will help us do it is these will break down into sort of larger, larger coordinated integrator units then then where we are right now we are labor is devised through speciality too much it's too fragmented, too. There's too many specific jobs to do. You think about the role of the master building the architects over time and how that's been broken down to just what it is today. Sorry, to the any architecture people listening, but it's, it's reality, the role of the master builder of the architect is, is no more I mean, in the UK, we have the quantity surveyor, and it's a slightly different thing in the States, where the architect does still sort of hold on to that role. But yeah, we've sort of broken up our professions so much and atomize them that they've become impossible to coordinate to the point of probably need to reconsolidate them and that that's comes full circle to how technology enables contracts. Henry Fenby-Taylor  44:02Absolutely, that a specialism it is a it gives you certainty, you know, if you have a chartered architect or a chartered engineer, you are expecting certain levels of capability and responsibility and and they will behave in certain ways. So, you've got that kind of certainty, but then in the actual implementation of that, that's that's when it all kind of falls apart by the wayside, not what apart it does work, you know, these things get built, and the risk is managed, and, and all of these things. So I agree with you, I do think it'd be interesting to see from scratch if we started or what, what roles would we have, and what specialisms would we need? Because I don't think they'd be in the current hierarchy as it stands. But then, as I want to move over to new products and services and finding new ways of doing things because, you know, here are the professional disciplines, it's, you know, what you're gonna get from them, in a sense, because they are chartered, and you know, they are insured, and you know, they have these businesses and you know what you're gonna get. But when you're trying to do new things, or new ways of doing things, these, the digital twin, as Neil said, he knows the platform for change, because now we know what's happening, we can see what's happening. And we can implement new processes, we can implement new measures, and we can know we can really manage that dynamic. But that area is actually quite consolidated. You know, there's a few design tools and these organizations, you know, like Autodesk, and Bentley, are growing through procurement. And they are also doing cloud storage effectively, you know, with some with some amazing bells and whistles, and they are doing these coordination pieces. But how do you get the new tools in there the things that are we have developed this, this tool, this innovative thing that can improve how you do things? How does that get in there, because we have this professional unit on one side and a technology unit on the other, and they're very separate, and they shouldn't be. Neil Thompson46:20So this is the interesting thing that's happened in that sector is, they've, as I said, the technology sector in general is they've gone from selling boxes and CDs of software, they've moved into the clouds. And through application programming, programming interfaces, APIs, have shifted from selling boxes of CDs through to essentially I mean, there's the analogy, but the press of the button of the function that you want to use, essentially, charging on a draw circle, press the circle button, the API call for the circle, and I get micro charged. So instead of paying my two or 3000 pounds a year for my, my Revit license, I then start paying maybe a cent for every button click. And that's sort of the spectrum. And I wonder, I wonder if it's the same thing for us. Ricardo, we are we still selling boxes of software? In this world of these big infrastructure projects? Were actually shouldn't we be looking at more micro contracts, and the micro contracts can't be implemented physically, as in on paper, or between people, it can only be administered with technology? Would we end up in a world where we just have 1000s of tiny contracts that build up into this sort of nexus of an agreement that would build infrastructure versus trying to draw a big circle around it and say, Riccardo Cosentino  47:51I think micro contracts? Yes. I think every time you introduce an interface, you're introducing complexity. So a fasn, or micro contracts is a 1000s of interfaces. Now, you that definitely would not advocate for their big advocate to reduce complexity. That's why I'm also that's also why I'm saying remove private finance from from PFI, don't do PFI remove the private finance because that adds a layer of complexity that major programs struggle to deal with. And that's, that's my previous episode, if you're interested. But just to take it back. You know, we we talked about the the analogy of the, the orchestra. And ultimately, I think we're at an inflection point. And I like your journey through time, you know, what we've been building major programs since the pyramids and even before, so clearly, they can be built without digital tools. However, if you want to build it, without digital tools, you need to accept that you might have some slaves building it for you. And I think that's, that's where we are for major programs. You know, we can continue doing it well, how we've been doing it for the last 100 years, but you know, society is changing. The needs of society is changing the needs of the people working in the major programs are different. So you need to adopt the major programs. And I think the only way you're going to do it, is by adopting new processes and new technologies and you know, digital twin, I think captures most of those. Henry Fenby-Taylor  49:26So, I think the digital approach is very important, but it is not. On our last our last podcast in the digital twin fanclub last podcast, we were discussing that at board level, I mean, I know major programs have boards, there is often a person for this. So if there is a technology aspect, then it's the Chief Technology Officers role to take responsibility for that. Whereas what we actually talking about is achieving our goals and performance. And these are, you know, you would not have a chief pencil officer or a chief paper officer. And for the same reason you shouldn't have at work, you should have a chief technology officer, but they should, they are not the ones who are responsible for if anything vaguely digital comes up, we just pass it over to them. It it is addressing all of these issues. So we have our own technology stacks that we use in the built environment, but we also have these professional disciplines and to not apply them together is to basically take the costs of both and try and smush them together to make benefits, that doesn't work. Neil Thompson50:49So I think Ben Flyvbjerg book has to get big things done. backs up my my theory of big programs are not just big programs to deliver. One of the best books written in forever brilliant. My point here is, these big, these big programs aren't just infrastructure programs that IT programs. And they have to be treated as such. So I don't agree with the OS passing over to the technology person yours. Because what you're technically saying is you shouldn't have a CIO either, because the IT infrastructure just sort itself out this, I think it's it's in our world is this project technology, stuff that we do to get the project done. And then there's IT infrastructure for the enterprise. And those two things are kept at arm's length from each other. And I think the journey that we need to go on is bringing them together. So it's not about not having a Chief Technology Officer, it's about actually understanding that the IT infrastructure is so complex, for major programs that your major program is an IT projects, and they are run, they are ran in slightly different ways. And you require that management structure because a project director that is very good at coordinating a site of builders is a very different skill set to getting IT infrastructure that you can't mix them up, but they require to be in the same room at certain points. So that's, that's that's a challenge. I just, I did want to change one thing about the micro contracts whilst whilst I've got the microphone. So imagine being Paul McCartney, back in the, in the 60s, and you're you're the CEO of Spotify, and you get the you get the opportunity, you go back in time, you get the opportunity to go to Paul McCartney and say, Do you know in the future, we're going to charge everybody per stream, per listen of your song, he'd say the same thing. I said, Well, how someone's going to run around with like a cone and listen out, for when you're listening to it and charge the money. They've got no digital payments, then there's no internet, there's nothing. So they're just thinking, you're someone's gonna go around on a bike and knock on the door. And I heard you listen to The Beatles, I take 50 pay off you. It's not that as it's I think there is an aspect of technology is going to enable us to have those types of, of management. Yes, there's complexity. But technology lowers the risk to be able to absorb the risk of the complexity. So just there's just my challenge on that one. Riccardo Cosentino  53:27I think we're seeing the same thing. I mean, it's it's major programs are getting more and more complex, because not just the complexity of what you're designing and building but also the environment they operate, right. It's political, social, political. So you need to help to manage that complexity. And I think you're right. I mean, it's digital is what is going to help you and we don't even know how it's going to help us today. Because we don't know what tomorrow is bringing. Henry Fenby-Taylor  53:57Yeah, but but similarly to almost to back you up to be the peacemaker, as is my want. You didn't You didn't, Spotify was not built overnight, you know, and you needed that infrastructure. So you need that. And again, I'm gonna use the word digital twin, but that way of measuring progress of measuring quality, you can't, you couldn't do micro contracts, you couldn't slap a micro contract system. Without that, that supporting technology, that measurement, that understanding of how things are actually working. So it certainly feels absolutely right, that there is an IT infrastructure aspect to running these, these these major programs. And if you don't, if you choose not to make those decisions, someone is going to have to make those decisions or those decisions don't get made and for my experience of major programs, you can end up with these huge transaction costs is very basic. What might seem very basic interface isn't going to be Share my costings, I'm going to share my project plan I'm going to share my designs, becomes something that requires a superstar, to solve somebody who is an amazing integrator of systems, and done some of that. So you get very good at working out how different systems work and behave them, connecting them all up and getting the people to connect, and connect up, etc. But without that, underpinning technology, without implementing these tools, making these decisions, knowing that you need to make those decisions, you are just setting yourself up for all sorts of costs of just hours, you know, I have seen projects where to share data would add a day, every every two weeks, to a technicians time, per team. And when you scale that up, it's just it's just a huge amount of waste that you could have avoided by knowing that you needed to make that decision early in the program. And making it might not be the best solution. And that's often a problem, I think, in the built environment, you know, always looking for, what's the perfect solve all answer, what we can get as close as we can to that. And then we need to be pragmatic and move on with our lives. But for all that is holy, in the whole, please don't just not make the decision and let that problem cascade into the supply chain. Because you will end up with lots of bits of paper, and lots of waste. And lots of people are hanging around waiting for other people to do things. Riccardo Cosentino  56:40Yeah, I think I think if you want to use an analogy from NASA, since we talk about digital twin, you know, if you want faster, better, cheaper, you got to figure out and different way of doing things. Because otherwise, if you just do it the way we've been doing it, you're not going to achieve that, as I said, I mean, we innovation has always brought us forward and allowed us to do things better, faster and cheaper throughout the centuries. And I think this is another inflection point where we need to, we need to look at how do we get? Henry Fenby-Taylor  57:11Yeah, and there are some innovative new companies, I'm thinking about the, you know, everybody loves throwing the Toyota example out there, and the Kanban process, etc. And lots of American car companies were invited to Toyota and went and saw how they did things. But they weren't able to implement those processes. And perhaps they're being implemented now. But certainly at the time, there were cultural issues, there were expectations, you know, people's jobs, this is my job, and you're changing my job. And this, this applies to car companies, individual consultancies and construction companies, but also to the disciplines to the engineer to the architect, etc. So there are organizations out there that are delivering new models. And we have to give those a chance, in my view, otherwise, you know, it's not broken enough to fix is the danger. But it is pretty broken. Riccardo Cosentino  58:15On there, we all agree, I think, Neil Thompson58:19yeah, I guess in summary, you know, I know I didn't agree with Henry, but this is me agreeing with Henry about the technology role. I technology leadership is for all of us. Tonight, as your leadership, you know, it, especially in the context of navigating major programs is an awful lot of people do assume that somebody else is going to give them a tour at some point. And as a stereotypical, you know, someone from the IT department is going to install a new toy on my laptop, when I wake up Monday morning, and I'll be inconvenienced by it, and I'm open about it. And then I've got my new toy and I crack on it doesn't, it doesn't work like that you have to you have to engage with what technology is doing and understand it as part of, you know, we're talking to people that design commercial environments. And that's hard enough on its own. And unfortunately, there's another dimension to that, which is technology leadership. And if you want to be a good designer of commercial environments, you do have to do some homework on where technology is at and how does it impact the planning? And yeah, yeah, it's like concluding point for you. Henry Fenby-Taylor  59:33Fantastic concluding point. Really, we're gonna lead exciting to see that there's lots actually happening around the world there is increasing amount of connected decision making taking place. And I'm here for Riccardo Cosentino  59:48So are we are really going to leave Neal with the last point, Henry? Henry Fenby-Taylor  59:52Yeah, well, I just I started talking because I just couldn't possibly let that I think that was just my podcasting impulse is that always To finish it off, so my final point is, I totally agree with him. Does that mean that I got the last word, but you've got the last point. Riccardo Cosentino  1:00:11I want to thank you both. terrific discussion today. I truly enjoyed it. honored to have you on my podcast. And yeah, hopefully this is this is something that we're going to continue. Neil Thompson1:00:23Yeah, absolutely. Thank you. Henry Fenby-Taylor  1:00:25Thanks for having us. Really good. Riccardo Cosentino  1:00:27Thank you. That's it for this episode on navigating major problems. I hope you found today's conversation as informative and thought provoking as I did. If you enjoyed this conversation, please consider subscribing and leaving a review. I would also like to personally invite you to continue the conversation by joining me on my personal LinkedIn at Riccardo Cosentino. Listening to the next episode, we'll we'll continue to explore the latest trends and challenges in major program management. Our next in depth conversation promises to continue to dive into topics such as leadership risk management, and the impact of emerging technology in infrastructure. It's a conversation you're not going to want to miss. Thanks for listening to navigate the major programs and I look forward to keeping the conversation going Music: "A New Tomorrow" by Chordial Music. Licensed through PremiumBeat.DISCLAIMER: The opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by the hosts and guests on this podcast do not necessarily represent or reflect the official policy, opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints of Disenyo.co LLC and its employees.

"If the public doesn't understand what we're doing, then that's our fault." – Leah ElsonToday's featured author is an academically-published clinical development scientist, and public science communicator, Leah Elson, MS, MPH. Leah and I had a fun chat about her book, “There Are (No) Stupid Questions … in Science”, her journey from being a sportscaster to becoming a scientist, and the importance of bridging the gap between the public and scientists. Key Things You'll Learn:What made Leah decide to become an authorWhat the next great breakthrough in medical research isThe most popular questions that Leah has to field on the dailyHow Leah does self-care and balance life as a scientist Leah's Site: https://www.leahelson.com/Leah's Book: https://www.amazon.com/There-Are-Stupid-Questions-Science/dp/B0B5P8C4FM/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1687902512&sr=8-1 A special shoutout goes to EV Sharp (formally known as MagicMusicX) for his track "Computer Room". Be sure to snag this and his other wonderful tunes through the following link. https://evsharp.bandcamp.com/track/the-computer-room Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmon You May Also Like… 110 - "Self-Intelligence" with Jane Ransom (@TheJaneRansom): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/110-self-intelligence-with-jane-ransom-thejaneransom/ Ep. 671 – “The Last Ark” with Guy Morris (@guymorrisbooks): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-671-the-last-ark-with-guy-morris-guymorrisbooks/ Ep. 631 – “Enigma Tracer” with Charles Breakfield, MBA (@EnigmaSeries): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-631-enigma-tracer-with-charles-breakfield-mba-enigmaseries/ Ep. 628 – “Inside the Secret World of Corporate Spying” with Robert Kerbeck (@robertkerbeck): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-628-inside-the-secret-world-of-corporate-spying-with-robert-kerbeck-robertkerbeck/ Ep. 410 – “Research Scientist Turned Urban Fantasy Author” with Kristi Charish (@kristicharish): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-410-research-scientist-turned-urban-fantasy-author-with-kristi-charish-kristicharish/ Ep. 474 – “How Social Media Impacts The Way We Think, Feel and Behave” with Tyler Hendon (@tylerhendon7): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-474-how-social-media-impacts-the-way-we-think-feel-and-behave-with-tyler-hendon-tylerhendon7/ Ep. 340 – “A Single Light” with Tosca Lee (@ToscaLee): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-340-a-single-light-with-tosca-lee-toscalee/ 185 - "Ultralearning" with Scott H. Young (@ScottHYoung): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/185-ultralearning-with-scott-h-young-scotthyoung/ Ep. 573 – “From US Veteran to Sci-Fi Novelist” with Pat Daily (@patdailyauthor): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-573-from-us-veteran-to-sci-fi-novelist-with-pat-daily-patdailyauthor/ Ep. 348 – “Bring Inner Greatness Out” with Dr. Mansur Hasib, CISSP, PMP, CPHIMS (@mhasib): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-348-bring-inner-greatness-out-with-dr-mansur-hasib-cissp-pmp-cphims-mhasib/ Ep. 412 – “Why Boomer, Xer, Millennial and Gen Z Labels Need Reimagined” with Dr. Rick Chromey (@MyGenTech2020): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-412-why-boomer-xer-millennial-and-gen-z-labels-need-reimagined-with-dr-rick-chromey-mygentech2020/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ 168 - "Spiral" with Amy Simpkins (@amylsimpkins): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/168-spiral-with-amy-simpkins-amylsimpkins/ 212 – “From a Mess to Amazing” with Trina Martin (@TrinaLMartin): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/212-from-a-mess-to-amazing-with-trina-martin-trinalmartin/

Blue Is The New White Podcast: Episode #145   Excited for my guest today. An incredible human who is also a huge advocate of the skilled trades. Neil Thompson is the founder of Teach the Geek. Not in the skilled trades in the traditional sense, but serves the trades in so many ways. Neil has a storied past, getting his masters degree in bio-medical engineering. Really because of the persuasion from his father. While going for his PhD, he decided enough was enough and left college. He spent many years in the field ending up in orthobiologics. If you don't know what that is, keep listening.  Once he realized that entrepreneurship was his calling he started Teach the Geek, helping STEM professional hone their public speaking skills. Don't forget to subscribe to this channel, and on our website blueisthenewwhite.com to receive all the latest updates. You can now find this podcast on Iheart Radio, Sirius XM, and Pandora. As always, we rely on the word of mouth from our listeners to further the mission. So if you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, review, and share. The future generations of tradespeople depend on it. On you! So thank you again and enjoy this episode of Blue is the New White with Neil Thompson

Coming up on the one year mark since opening Skywater Fine Wines, Neil Thompson joins us to talk about that adventure which started with the extreme challenges of running his Park Avenue Fine Wines in downtown Portland, before finally hanging up the towel there and moving west to brighter pastures.    He and his husband Hans opened two businesses between them, including Skywater Tea House a few months after the wine shop opened, to the delight of many local folks in Hillsboro that appreciated their businesses in their neighborhood.  Neil tells us about the evolution of both businesses, what they've learned, and what's working as a base for their exciting expansion plans.    For more background on Neil and Hans personally, you may want to click on this link from November of 2021  http://rightatthefork.com/shows/2021/11/11/294-neil-thompson-park-avenue-fine-wines?rq=thompson   Right at the Fork is supported by: Zupan's Markets: www.Zupans.com Oregon Dungeness Crab: www.OregonDungeness.org  RingSide Steakhouse: www.RingSideSteakhouse.com Portland Food Adventures: www.PortlandFoodAdventures.com 

“Everything is solvable.” – Kohila SivasToday's featured international bestselling author is a mom, wife, educator, Professional Math Interventionist, Master NLP coach, and the creator of the MathCodes Method™ and SuccessCodes Method™, Kohila Sivas. Kohila and I had a chat about her books, turning stressed-out learners into confident successful students, and more!!Key Things You'll Learn:What led her to start her learning success coaching business that helps families and educatorsThe difference between hiring a tutor and bringing in a learning success coachHow Kohila stays productiveWhy teaching children can be more difficult after the pandemicWhy reinvention and innovation are required for educators today Kohila's Site: https://www.fearlesslearners.com/Kohila's Books: https://www.amazon.com/s?i=stripbooks&rh=p_27%3AKohila+Sivas&s=relevancerank&text=Kohila+Sivas&ref=dp_byline_sr_book_1 The opening track is titled “Check It Out” by Mountaineer from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/check-it-outLicense code: AR6DFPGVXQ9Q1SSY Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmon You May Also Like… Ep. 582 – “Shaping the World Through Great Stories for All Ages” with Natasha Deen (@natasha_deen): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-582-shaping-the-world-through-great-stories-for-all-ages-with-natasha-deen-natasha_deen/ Ep. 586 – “Flipping Bad Situations into Joyful Children's Books” with Violet Lemay (@violetlemay): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-586-flipping-bad-situations-into-joyful-childrens-books-with-violet-lemay-violetlemay/ Ep. 559 - "Picky Patrick" With Eleni Fuiaxis (@EleniFuiaxis): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-559-picky-patrick-with-eleni-fuiaxis-elenifuiaxis/ Ep. 342 – “Take Me Home” with Andrea Bitner (@BitnerAndrea): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-342-take-me-home-with-andrea-bitner-bitnerandrea/ Ep. 524 – “Pediatric Anxiety” with Alicia Kollmar: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-524-pediatric-anxiety-with-alicia-kollmar/ Ep. 414 – “The Growing Bed” with Rebecca Linney: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-414-the-growing-bed-with-rebecca-linney/ Ep. 522 – “Peanut the Penguin” with Aruna Lepore (@ArunaMLepore): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-522-peanut-the-penguin-with-aruna-lepore-arunamlepore/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ Ep. 484 – “What's Wrong with My Child” with Elizabeth Harris (@elizabethwwwmc): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-484-whats-wrong-with-my-child-with-elizabeth-harris-elizabethwwwmc/ Ep. 486 – “From Lawyer to Bestselling Children's Book Writer” with Joanna Hurley: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-486-from-lawyer-to-bestselling-childrens-book-writer-with-joanna-hurley/ Ep. 483 – “Baby Aviva Orangutan Diva” with Hans Kullberg (@AvivasDaddy) #BABYAVIVA: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-483-baby-aviva-orangutan-diva-with-hans-kullberg-avivasdaddy-babyaviva/ #GNPYear1 Bonus Episode 1 - "Giggles & Joy" with Ariane De Bonvoisin (@clickariane): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/gnpyear1-bonus-episode-1-giggles-joy-with-ariane-de-bonvoisin-clickariane/ Ep. 348 – “Bring Inner Greatness Out” with Dr. Mansur Hasib, CISSP, PMP, CPHIMS (@mhasib): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-348-bring-inner-greatness-out-with-dr-mansur-hasib-cissp-pmp-cphims-mhasib/ 185 - "Ultralearning" with Scott H. Young (@ScottHYoung): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/185-ultralearning-with-scott-h-young-scotthyoung/

In this podcast Shane Hastie, Lead Editor for Culture & Methods spoke to Neil Thompson of teachthegeek.com about how to build great communication skills as a technologist. Read a transcript of this interview: https://bit.ly/3mEZuvl Subscribe to the Software Architects' Newsletter [monthly]: https://www.infoq.com/software-architects-newsletter/?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=architectnl Upcoming Events: QCon London https://qconlondon.com/?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=qlondon23 March 27-29, 2023 QCon New York https://qconnewyork.com/?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=qny23 June 13-15, 2023 QCon San Francisco: https://qconsf.com/?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=qsf23 Oct 2-6, 2023 Follow InfoQ: - Mastodon: https://techhub.social/@infoq - Twitter: twitter.com/InfoQ - LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/infoq - Facebook: bit.ly/2jmlyG8 - Instagram: @infoqdotcom - Youtube: www.youtube.com/infoq Write for InfoQ - Join a community of experts. - Increase your visibility. - Grow your career. https://www.infoq.com/write-for-infoq/?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=writeforinfoq

According to research, what you say to an audience isn't nearly as important as how you say it. Studies suggest that effective presentations are 38% your voice, 55% non-verbal communication, and only 7% your content. That means that you should spend even more time preparing your delivery than you do developing awesome content.   In today's episode, we welcome Neil Thompson. Since earning his Master's in Bioengineering and his Master's in Biomedical Engineering from Clemson University and Columbia University, Neil has held various roles in biomedical engineering, technical communication, and with patent law. He is the founder of Teach the Geek, an educational network centered around enhancing the technical communication skills of STEM professionals. With him, we discuss:   

Be bold and continuously get better at your craft.Today's featured bonus author is a husband and retired US navy veteran, Andre Lewis Carter. Andre and I had a chat about his book, “Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea”, his advice for fellow writers, and more!! Key Things You'll Learn:What inspired him to writeHis research process for finishing his bookWhat Andre is working on nextHis advice for fellow writers looking to get published Andre's Site: https://www.andrelewiscarter.com/Andre's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Between-Devil-Deep-Blue-Sea/dp/1636140750/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1621883594&sr=1-1 Opening track is titled “Check It Out” by Mountaineer from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):https://uppbeat.io/t/mountaineer/check-it-outLicense code: AR6DFPGVXQ9Q1SSY Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmon You May Also Like… #HolidayBonus Ep. – “Little Man's Big Day” with Lonnie Lesane (@LesaneLonnie): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/holidaybonus-ep-little-mans-big-day-with-lonnie-lesane-lesanelonnie/ 64 - "From Prison Sentence to Bible School Dean" with Avon J. Bellamy: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/64-from-prison-sentence-to-bible-school-dean-with-avon-j-bellamy/ 88 - "Being Pushed Into Entrepreneurship" with Gerald DuBose (@geralddnwo): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/88-being-pushed-into-entrepreneurship-with-gerald-dubose-geralddnwo/ Ep. 307 – “Failure Is Not The Problem, It's The Beginning Of Your Success” with Col. George Milton: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-307-failure-is-not-the-problem-its-the-beginning-of-your-success-with-col-george-milton/ 176 - "Life Has a Way" with Dwayne Jenkins (@LeDwayneJenkins): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/176-life-has-a-way-with-dwayne-jenkins-ledwaynejenkins/ 184 - "ManTality" with DeWayne Foote (@zodonboys): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/184-mantality-with-dewayne-foote-zodonboys/ 128 - “The Adventures of Teacherman” with Brian D. Neal (@BrockSteel1): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/128-the-adventures-of-teacherman-with-brian-d-neal-brocksteel1/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ 13 - "Water in a Broken Glass" with Odessa Rose: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/13-water-in-a-broken-glass-with-odessa-rose/ Ep. 365 – “My Poetry Is the Beauty You Overlook” with Kim B. Miller (@pwcpoetlaur2020): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-365-my-poetry-is-the-beauty-you-overlook-with-kim-b-miller-pwcpoetlaur2020/ 90 - "Words From a Creative Mind" with Myke Gregoree: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/90-words-from-a-creative-mind-with-myke-gregoree/ Ep. 302 – “A Black First” with Peter E. Carter: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/302-a-black-first-with-peter-e-carter/

“Content is King, but engagement is Queen. Engagement is what will make people feel something and we wanted to create memories.” In this episode, we will be talking with Neil Thompson, Founder & MD of The Delegate Wranglers about the story behind the Wrangles Fest and how they managed to get the attendees excited about attending the event way before the actual event. If you enjoyed this episode, leave us a 5-star review and share the episode with a colleague or friend   Find out more at: www.theeventscast.com/neilthomson   Follow or send us a message On Instagram: www.instagram.com/theeventscast On Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-events-cast/

“You can turn any story into a comic and it's just a stone's throw away from film.” - Morgan Quaid Today's featured award-winning author is a fellow podcast host, award-winning composer and music producer, Morgan Quaid. Morgan and I had a fun chat about his books, balancing his creative force of nature with his 9-5 job, and tons more!! Key Things You'll Learn:The difference between writing a novel and producing a comic bookWhat to keep in mind when crowdfunding your book projectsThe 2 “demons” that creative people must conquer to have success Morgan's Site: https://morganquaid.com/Morgan's Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Morgan-Quaid/author/B01M66C4Q6?ref=ap_rdr&store_ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=trueMorgan's Podcast, “The Very Occasional Podcast”: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLch7HXXTodylg8b4XHDiuJ4cQklTQSWi4 The opening track is titled “TMNT Neon Night Riders Remix” by EV Sharp aka MagicMusicx. To listen and download the full track, click the following link. https://www.magicmusicx.com/magic-vgm-1.html Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmon You May Also Like… Ep. 582 – “Shaping the World Through Great Stories for All Ages” with Natasha Deen (@natasha_deen): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-582-shaping-the-world-through-great-stories-for-all-ages-with-natasha-deen-natasha_deen/ 98 - "It Takes 10 Years to Be an Overnight Success" with Pamela Hilliard Owens (@YB2C_System): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/98-it-takes-10-years-to-be-an-overnight-success-with-pamela-hilliard-owens-yb2c_system/ #Bonus Ep. – “Random Acts of Awesome Historical Fiction” with J. Lynn Else (@JLynnElseAuthor): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/bonus-ep-random-acts-of-awesome-historical-fiction-with-j-lynn-else-jlynnelseauthor/ Ep. 586 – “Flipping Bad Situations into Joyful Children's Books” with Violet Lemay (@violetlemay): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-586-flipping-bad-situations-into-joyful-childrens-books-with-violet-lemay-violetlemay/ Ep. 522 – “Peanut the Penguin” with Aruna Lepore (@ArunaMLepore): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-522-peanut-the-penguin-with-aruna-lepore-arunamlepore/ Ep. 558 – “Your Friendly Publishing Book Shepherd” with Wendy Fedan (@wfedan): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-558-your-friendly-publishing-book-shepherd-with-wendy-fedan-wfedan/ Ep. 330 – “A Long Way from Ordinary” with Ann Charles (@AnnWCharles): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-330-a-long-way-from-ordinary-with-ann-charles-annwcharles/ Ep. 311 – “Works of Urban Mythopoeia” with Cat Rambo (@Catrambo): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-311-works-of-urban-mythopoeia-with-cat-rambo-catrambo/ Ep. 378 – “Writing Adventures with The Dialogue Doctor” with Jeff Elkins (@Jffelkins): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-378-writing-adventures-with-the-dialogue-doctor-with-jeff-elkins-jffelkins/ Ep. 335 – “Last of the Gifted” with Marie Powell (@mepowell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-335-last-of-the-gifted-with-marie-powell-mepowell/ Ep. 414 – “The Growing Bed” with Rebecca Linney: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-414-the-growing-bed-with-rebecca-linney/ 247 – “Cozy Mysteries & Inclusive Children's Books” with Kelly Brakenhoff (@inBrakenVille): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/247-cozy-mysteries-inclusive-childrens-books-with-kelly-brakenhoff-inbrakenville/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ Ep. 533 – “Anime, Swords, & Knives, Oh My!” with Sarah Humpherys: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-533-anime-swords-knives-oh-my-with-sarah-humpherys/

Gurus did you know that how you manage your I.P. portfolio could have a major impact on a successful acquisition. In this episode of Medtech Gurus we have a distinguished panel that will provide valuable insights. Mr. Kevin Buckley Founder and CEO of Torrey Pines Law Group along with Mr. Neil Thompson a registered patent agent also with Torrey Pines Law Group. Join these two gentlemen we have Mr. Nir Lifshitz VP of Intellectual Property and Legal Affairs at Bayless Medical Technologies. This panel of experts provides very useful insights to the best practices for your intellectual property.

“Figure out who you want to be in the end” - Nathaniel A. Turner, JDToday's bonus featured author is a father, TEDx Speaker, World Class Parent Empowerment Coach, and Humanity Propulsion Engineer, Nathaniel Turner, JD, MALS. Nate and I had a fun chat about his books, the journey that led him to become a modern-day Renaissance Man, and tons more! Key Things You'll Learn:Why intentionality is required to create successWhat to expect from his upcoming bookWhat big setback led to one of Nate's biggest successesA new way to show your kids that you love themThe cold hard truth about parenting Nate's Site: https://www.nathanielaturner.com/Nate's Books: https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/entity/author/B00IKUJ6MU?_encoding=UTF8&node=2656022011&offset=0&pageSize=12&searchAlias=stripbooks&sort=author-sidecar-rank&page=1&langFilter=default#formatSelectorHeader The opening track is titled “Set Sail” by Sparks Dynamite. To cop the whole track, click the following link. https://planetastroproductions.bandcamp.com/track/set-sail-intro Please support today's podcast to keep this content coming! CashApp: $DomBrightmonDonate on PayPal: @DBrightmonBuy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/dombrightmonGet Going North T-Shirts, Stickers, and More: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/dom-brightmon You May Also Like…Ep. 316 – “Ubuntu Leadership” with Dr. LaMarr Darnell Shields (@LaMarrDShields): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-316-ubuntu-leadership-with-dr-lamarr-darnell-shields-lamarrdshields/ #InspirationNuke – “The Impact of Influence” with Chip Baker, Charles Woods, Chris Holmes, Darius Bradley Sr., & Jeermal Sylvester: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/inspirationnuke-the-impact-of-influence-with-chip-baker-charles-woods-chris-holmes-darius-bradley-sr-jeermal-sylvester/ #Holiday Bonus Ep. – “Be Excellent Now” with Ben Scott, Jr. (@benscottllc): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/holiday-bonus-ep-be-excellent-now-with-ben-scott-jr-benscottllc/ Ep. 428 – “Hard Conversations” with Dr. Brad Johnson (@bjcommunicates): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-428-hard-conversations-with-dr-brad-johnson-bjcommunicates/ Ep. 353 – “Free Agent” with Rennie Curran (@RennieCurran53): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-353-free-agent-with-rennie-curran-renniecurran53/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ Ep. 420 – “The UPside of Failure” with Tiana Sanchez (@likearealboss): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-420-the-upside-of-failure-with-tiana-sanchez-likearealboss/ 152 - "Chocolate Brothers for Christ" with Chaz Jackson: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/152-chocolate-brothers-for-christ-with-chaz-jackson/ 141 - "Thou Shall Be Successful" with William Winfield (@Willisblessed38): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/141-thou-shall-be-successful-with-william-winfield-willisblessed38/ #Bonus Ep. – “Structure Creates Freedom” with Brad A. Milford (@BAMilford): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/bonus-ep-structure-creates-freedom-with-brad-a-milford-bamilford/ Ep. 299 – “Bus Stop Wisdom” with Jerry Franklin Poe (@jerrypoe): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-299-bus-stop-wisdom-with-jerry-franklin-poe-jerrypoe/ Ep. 324 – “Get Off the Cycle” with Rodney Burris (@RodneyCBurris): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-324-get-off-the-cycle-with-rodney-burris-rodneycburris/ Ep. 592 – “There Is A Rainbow In Everyone” with Zsata Williams-Spinks (@zsata): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-592-there-is-a-rainbow-in-everyone-with-zsata-williams-spinks-zsata/ Ep. 486 – “From Lawyer to Bestselling Children's Book Writer” with Joanna Hurley: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-486-from-lawyer-to-bestselling-childrens-book-writer-with-joanna-hurley/

PlastChicks Lynzie Nebel and Mercedes Landazuri with guest Neil Thompson, Founder of Teach the Geek, author and podcaster of Teach the Geek to Speak, discuss helping STEM professionals develop their presentation skills to further their career development, the challenges engineers face when communicating to a non-technical audience, attributes of engaging and unengaging presentations and dealing with presentation fears.You can find out more about developing engaging presentations from Neil on his website, Teach the Geek; his podcast, Teach the Geek to Speak; his YouTube Channel, Teach the Geek; and in his book, Teach the Geek to Speak.Watch the PlastChicks podcast on the SPE YouTube channel.PlastChicks is sponsored by SPE-Inspiring Plastics Professionals and is posted the first Friday of every month.

Good writing and respecting the readers' time are how great authors become great. Today's featured writer is an instructor and award-winning author of over forty works for kids, teens, and adults, in a variety of genres, Natasha Deen. Natasha and I have a fun chat about her books, how to navigate the genre map when publishing books for a variety of readerships, and more!!! Key Things You'll Learn:How she became a writerThe advantages of being an indie writerWhat Natasha does for self-careWhat to keep in mind when writing books for kidsHer advice for aspiring authors Natasha's Site: https://natashadeen.com/Natasha's Books: https://www.amazon.com/kindle-dbs/entity/author/B004YWRSY6?_encoding=UTF8&node=283155&offset=0&pageSize=12&searchAlias=stripbooks&sort=author-sidecar-rank&page=1&langFilter=default#formatSelectorHeader The opening track is titled "Parepare" by Marcus D. Be sure to visit his site and support his craft by clicking on the following link. https://marcusd.net/track/parepare You May Also Like… Ep. 522 – “Peanut the Penguin” with Aruna Lepore (@ArunaMLepore): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-522-peanut-the-penguin-with-aruna-lepore-arunamlepore/ Ep. 558 – “Your Friendly Publishing Book Shepherd” with Wendy Fedan (@wfedan): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-558-your-friendly-publishing-book-shepherd-with-wendy-fedan-wfedan/ Ep. 574 – “Light Skin Gone to Waste” with Toni Ann Johnson (@toniannjohnson): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-574-light-skin-gone-to-waste-with-toni-ann-johnson-toniannjohnson/ Ep. 487 – “Black Indian” with Shonda Buchanan (@shondabuchanan): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-487-black-indian-with-shonda-buchanan-shondabuchanan/ #Holiday Bonus Ep. – “Read Until You Understand” with Dr. Farah Griffin (@FJasmineG): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/holiday-bonus-ep-read-until-you-understand-with-dr-farah-griffin-fjasmineg/ Ep. 430 – “Being Brown in a Black and White World” with Annemarie Shrouder (@ashrouder): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-430-being-brown-in-a-black-and-white-world-with-annemarie-shrouder-ashrouder/ Ep. 356 – “The Relentless Pursuit of Greatness” with Thomas R. Williams (@MrTRWilliams): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-356-the-relentless-pursuit-of-greatness-with-thomas-r-williams-mrtrwilliams/ Ep. 330 – “A Long Way from Ordinary” with Ann Charles (@AnnWCharles): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-330-a-long-way-from-ordinary-with-ann-charles-annwcharles/ Ep. 311 – “Works of Urban Mythopoeia” with Cat Rambo (@Catrambo): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-311-works-of-urban-mythopoeia-with-cat-rambo-catrambo/ Ep. 378 – “Writing Adventures with The Dialogue Doctor” with Jeff Elkins (@Jffelkins): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-378-writing-adventures-with-the-dialogue-doctor-with-jeff-elkins-jffelkins/ Ep. 335 – “Last of the Gifted” with Marie Powell (@mepowell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-335-last-of-the-gifted-with-marie-powell-mepowell/ Ep. 414 – “The Growing Bed” with Rebecca Linney: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-414-the-growing-bed-with-rebecca-linney/ 247 – “Cozy Mysteries & Inclusive Children's Books” with Kelly Brakenhoff (@inBrakenVille): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/247-cozy-mysteries-inclusive-childrens-books-with-kelly-brakenhoff-inbrakenville/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ Ep. 486 – “From Lawyer to Bestselling Children's Book Writer” with Joanna Hurley: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-486-from-lawyer-to-bestselling-childrens-book-writer-with-joanna-hurley/ Ep. 483 – “Baby Aviva Orangutan Diva” with Hans Kullberg (@AvivasDaddy) #BABYAVIVA: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-483-baby-aviva-orangutan-diva-with-hans-kullberg-avivasdaddy-babyaviva/

This week, our heros talk with Neil Thompson author and host of Teach the Geek. Neil gives advice on how to be a better public speaker, and offers some tips on things to do to avoid becoming a sweaty mess. The post 67. Teach the Geek To Speak With Neil Thompson appeared first on Retro Time.

On today's episode Neil Thompson helps you close the gap between your informational presentations and the inspiration needed to get your audience on board with your idea. Listen in as Deborah and Neil discuss the common challenges of STEM professionals with public speaking, why non-technical presentations resonate with a wider audience, and how you can keep your audience engaged while delivering valuable information. Neil also shares actionable steps you can take today to improve your presentation skills and make your ideas resonate.   About Neil Thompson:   Neil Thompson, founder of Teach the Geek, is an engineer who works with technical professionals so they can present more effectively, especially in front of non-technical audiences. He hosts a podcast, the Teach the Geek podcast, interviewing technical professionals about their public speaking journeys. He is also author of the book, Teach the Geek to Speak: a No-Fluff Public Speaking Guide for STEM Professionals.   You can connect with Neil in the following ways: Website: teachthegeek.com Twitter: @teachthegeek   Whether you are a C-Suite Leader of today or tomorrow, take charge of your career with confidence and leverage the insights of The CEO's Compass: Your Guide to Get Back on Track.  To learn more about The CEO's Compass, you can get your copy here: https://amzn.to/3AKiflR See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“There's just something missing when you realize you're not doing everything that you're meant to be doing.” – Wendy FedanToday's featured award-winning bookcaster is mom, wife, full-time freelance illustrator/designer, and Book Shepherd, Wendy Fedan. Wendy and I had a fun chat about her journey to becoming a professional illustrator, the importance of remembering your accomplishments, and more creative goodness!! Key Things You'll Learn:What helped her to gain the confidence to become a writerWhy we all need outlets for creative expressionWhy it's good to accept complimentsWhat to do when you want to publish a well-illustrated children's book Wendy's Site: https://www.cawpublishing.com/Wendy's Books: https://www.amazon.com/Wendy-Fedan/e/B00HDSSHA2?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_8&qid=1662621515&sr=1-8 Wendy's Podcast, “Create a Way with ARTbundance™”: https://open.spotify.com/show/6KJYMcLoonna0PtaGAJYxx Neil Gaiman's Speech (Referenced in Episode): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ikAb-NYkseI&ab_channel=PeterShev The opening track is called " Super High Score - (Hidden Heaven R-Mix)" by Rukunetsu AKA Project R. To listen and download the entire track, click the following link. https://soundcloud.com/rukunetsu/super-high-score-r-star-punch-girl-2021 You May Also Like… 150 - "Princess Monroe and Her Happily Ever After" with Jody Vallee Smith: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/150-princess-monroe-and-her-happily-ever-after-with-jody-vallee-smith/ Ep. 335 – “Last of the Gifted” with Marie Powell (@mepowell): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-335-last-of-the-gifted-with-marie-powell-mepowell/ Ep. 414 – “The Growing Bed” with Rebecca Linney: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-414-the-growing-bed-with-rebecca-linney/ Ep. 301 – “Transformative Creativity” with Firdaus Kharas (@Culture_Shift): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-301-transformative-creativity-with-firdaus-kharas-culture_shift/ 155 - "Start Your Own Freelance Writing Business" with Laura Pennington Briggs (@sixfigurewriter): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/155-start-your-own-freelance-writing-business-with-laura-pennington-briggs-sixfigurewriter/ 160 - "Chocolate, Pumpkin Spice & Wisdom From the Warrior Princess" with Jenn Taylor (@MomOfEighteen): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/160-chocolate-pumpkin-spice-wisdom-from-the-warrior-princess-with-jenn-taylor-momofeighteen/ Ep. 522 – “Peanut the Penguin” with Aruna Lepore (@ArunaMLepore): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-522-peanut-the-penguin-with-aruna-lepore-arunamlepore/ Ep. 332 – “Her Perfect Life” with Hank Phillippi Ryan (@HankPRyan): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-332-her-perfect-life-with-hank-phillippi-ryan-hankpryan/ Ep. 340 – “A Single Light” with Tosca Lee (@ToscaLee): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-340-a-single-light-with-tosca-lee-toscalee/ 247 – “Cozy Mysteries & Inclusive Children's Books” with Kelly Brakenhoff (@inBrakenVille): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/247-cozy-mysteries-inclusive-childrens-books-with-kelly-brakenhoff-inbrakenville/ Ep. 313 – “Ask Uncle Neil” with Neil Thompson (@teachthegeek): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-313-ask-uncle-neil-with-neil-thompson-teachthegeek/ Ep. 486 – “From Lawyer to Bestselling Children's Book Writer” with Joanna Hurley: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-486-from-lawyer-to-bestselling-childrens-book-writer-with-joanna-hurley/ Ep. 483 – “Baby Aviva Orangutan Diva” with Hans Kullberg (@AvivasDaddy) #BABYAVIVA: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-483-baby-aviva-orangutan-diva-with-hans-kullberg-avivasdaddy-babyaviva/ Ep. 342.5 – “The Little Bear in a Boat” with Takelia Hammett: https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/ep-3425-the-little-bear-in-a-boat-with-takelia-hammett/ #GNPYear1 Bonus Episode 1 - "Giggles & Joy" with Ariane De Bonvoisin (@clickariane): https://www.goingnorthpodcast.com/gnpyear1-bonus-episode-1-giggles-joy-with-ariane-de-bonvoisin-clickariane/

"He who comes home with the most money doesn't win. He who comes home with the most experiences wins." - Steve Smith, contributor with Rick Steves in Rick Steves France 2015 The Simple Sophisticate, episode #23 One of the most exquisite pleasures in my experience has always been having time at home without a to-do list. To enjoy my sanctuary that comforts me, rejuvenates me and allows me to dream so that when I do step outside into the world I can do, seek and produce, is one of the things I most treasure about living simply luxuriously. And so it began when I was a child, no doubt, as my mother always cultivated a warm home, but as I grew up and became responsible for establishing my own abode, it took much exploration, dead-ins from time to time and investment to create a space that allowed the everyday to be just as stimulating as new experiences brought about by travel. And in so doing, paying attention to my home environment, I began to pay attention to how I spend my days. Was I exhausted and unfilled at the end or exhausted and feeling productive? Did I have time in my day to spend it with those I loved, converse with those who engaged in creative, uplifting and thought-provoking conversation or care for myself in such a way that respected my overall health? And depending upon my answer, I would tweak, eliminate, maximize or designate more or less time to those activities that improved the quality of living. "He has achieved success who has lived well, laughed often and loved much." -Bessie A. Stanley As the quote reminds us, living well is truly about prioritizing how we spend our days. Did we make time to enjoy the day, spend it with those we hold dear, take time to respect what our minds and bodies need or did we cram everything into our waking hours in order to fit a mold that we weren't asked for input regarding its creation? Everyone's path to living well will be different, but the key is to know what you want - more loosely rather than specifically. Because as we know, our lives intermingle with the rest of the world, but if we bring our best selves, have good intentions and are willing to be true selves, success is possible when it comes to living well. Recently, I was watching the travel guru Rick Steves discuss on PBS his explorations through the countryside of France. While staying at Chateau de Pray and dining on their outdoor terrace, his dining companion shared the quote listed at the beginning of today's post. And I couldn't agree more especially when it comes to travel, but why not bring a similar way of living into our everyday? Why not . . . live well each and every day? Why not use the nice china in the middle of the week? Why not treat ourselves regularly to dinner or lunch with a dear friend at a restaurant that piques our interest or tantalizes our taste buds? Why not sleep on silk pillowcases each night? Many may quickly scoff at such ideas as being too indulgent, thus deflating the exhilaration that is felt when they are only experiences from time to time, but what I hope to bring to your attention today is that with patience and careful planning, everyday life can indeed be lived luxuriously and can actually enhance the quality of our lives. Below are 20 ways to foster a simply luxurious way of living, but these are just a taste. If you would like the full list inspired by the French way of living, check out chapter 10 "Indulging Your Inner Francophile" in Choosing The Simply Luxurious Life: A Modern Woman's Guide. 1. Cook at home. Find simple, yet delicious recipes and discover the pleasures of cooking on your own schedule for your own dietary needs and preferences. (View TSLL recipes here.) 2. Indulge in café time. Once, twice or three times a week depending up on your schedule and enjoyment, select a favorite local café and stop in for some reading time, moseying through magazine time, or chats with friends. Indulge in one of the patisseries delicious sweet treats and lose track of time. ~Les Deux Garcons cafe in Aix-en-Provence, cours Mirabeau~ 3. Wear luxurious lingerie everyday. As I talk about in my book, lingerie is a necessity for the woman who wears it, not for those who might see her in it. Why? Because simply knowing we are wearing beautiful, comfortable, luxurious lingerie feels good. And everything begins with our thoughts. If we feel good, we smile more readily, we are more open to new experiences and our attitude is lifted. 4. Let go of busy. A powerful decision that will change your day-to-day living drastically for the better. Busy doesn't mean better or more productive, it simply reveals a life that perhaps could be managed better. After all, living well means living a life of quality. A life that focuses on what is necessary and lets go of the rest. And when you let go of busy, you have more time for moments of simple leisure and luxury that cultivate an everyday life to savor. (Click here to dive into this topic.) 5. Cultivate a capsule wardrobe for each season. Knowing you have in your closet clothes that will make you look and feel your best is a very powerful tool to possess as you begin your day. While this takes time and never really ends due to lives and bodies changing, it is worth our attention. (Click here to learn more about building a capsule wardrobe.) 6. Follow your own schedule. Perhaps it's Friday or even Saturday night, everyone must be out doing something, staying up late, right? Wrong. Your daily schedule is one that works for you and those you spend your time with. Perhaps you prefer Wednesday evenings out because Thursdays are lighter days at work and you enjoy spending your weekends waking up early and getting things done. Whatever schedule works for your goals, intentions, health, family, etc - adhere to it and don't apologize. After all, our lives, needs and desires change, listen to what is nudging you, calling your name and that is where you will find the unexpected beauty. 7. Discover a personal scent. Similar to knowing you are wearing luxurious lingerie is the choice of scent you layer upon your skin before stepping out the door for work or for play. A luxurious decision and investment, but one that will reveal your attention to detail. 8. Subscribe to daily/weekly/monthly periodicals. Running throughout the philosophy of living simply luxuriously is being well-read. Depending upon your lifestyle, curiosities, locale and interests, you will select reading material that interests you. Most importantly, gather knowledge, choose to learn something new each day, read a review of a new play or restaurant and be encouraged to give it a try. Become in the know of current events in order to strike up a conversation with anyone. Reading in truth, is a way of tickling your brain and refusing to live each day the same even if the events may be routine. 9. Save time and don't wash your hair everyday. Purchase a dry shampoo and have on hand for the days you don't lather up. Shampoo less often, thereby saving yourself more time in the morning, and believe it or not, improve the condition of your tresses. (Klorane Gentle Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk) 10. Invest in quality skincare products. In episode #13 of the podcast, specifics are shared on how to create glowing skin, and by investing in quality skincare products, your most beautiful skin will shine. The power of prevention is real, and while it takes time and a bit of investment, the pay-offs are tremendous. 11. Design a workout regimen to look forward to. Whether you enjoy exercising outdoors in Mother Nature or attending classes lead by instructors that inspire you and classmates that boost your mood, explore your interests and community to see what is available and what captures your needs and proclivities. Most people after having exercise will tell you that they feel better, energized and less stress, and if you can bring that into your everyday life, everything will be affected in a very positive way. (Revolver Yoga Studio, Walla Walla) 12. Find time to treasure hunt. Even if you are not necessarily going to buy, poke around in local consignment shops, yard sales, second-hand shops, antique boutiques and even boutiques that catch your eye. If nothing else, you will walk away with ideas on how to design, style and mix and match what you already have. 13. Be sincere, yet kind. While everyone has days that you are simply grumpy for any list of reasons, taking it out on others is something you will most likely regret. And even if you have to deliver news that isn't favorable, there is always a way to do so with kindness. Being conscious of how we treat people and our delivery will almost always be appreciated, and even if it is taken for granted, at least we can go home at night and feel good about the energy we put out into the world. 14. Shop at local vendors and boutiques. Perhaps you live in a town that you hand-selected for the community it offers, but what if you didn't? Either way, supporting local vendors when it comes to food or local boutiques when it comes to shopping for gifts, necessities and products not only builds good-will, but strengthens the economy of the local community. And additionally, when it comes to buying food locally, you benefit your overall health as most foods are free from pesticides and hold more nutritional value that your body craves. 15. Eat real food. Full of flavor that will satiate, real food is a choice your body will thank you for. Processed food may be more convenient and help you reduce the shopping trips to the grocery store, but in the long term, it is a bad investment. Returning home after a long day knowing the food you will be incorporating into your meal will be satisfying and nutritious will remove guilt and properly fuel your body for whatever it may be asked to do next. 16. Elevate the conversation. Easier said than done when we are exhausted, stressed and frustrated, but when you do your best to refrain from complaining and gossiping, you are less likely to go home in the evening regretting or feeling guilty about partaking. In fact, when conversations are full of curious information - books, local events, news, etc - you can walk away inspired, motivated and eager to do something new. Why not bring such a conversation to those in your world? 17. Create an evening routine to look forward to. At the end of the day, your body and mind may be entirely taxed which is why making time (even 15 minutes) for unwinding with a favorite pastime is crucial. Being able to look forward to this simple routine can be the silver lining no matter what your day has unearthed. 18. Schedule regular spa appointments for beauty and health maintenance. Much like exercise, caring for our bodies is a means to caring for our health, overall beauty and mind. So be sure to schedule your facial, massage, hair cut/color, waxing and any other must-dos before you walk out the door from your last appointment. They can often be the respite in a busy week and will no doubt leave you feeling rejuvenated. 19. Stock a bar cart for spur-of-the-moment entertaining. Whether you drink alcoholic beverages or not, stock a bar cart that has drinks and nibbles at the ready for last-minute guests. Even for one or two guests, having a bar with wine, beer or if it's morning - croissants and hot tea keeps the food with the conversation in the living room or sitting room. Luxurious and ready for any everyday occasion. (A glimpse of my 20. Fill your home with inspired music. For techies or retro audiophiles, have your turntable or playlists ready for any occasion. From leisurely jazz tunes when you return from work and wish to read the daily news to beautiful Bach in the morning as you get ready for work, set up your music station, turn off the television and forget about time, even if for a moment. Whatever inspires you in your travels or remains memorable to you from your past, why not bring it into your everyday life if at all possible? Cultivate an everyday life that perhaps no one would believe is possible, but rest assured it is. After all, as Annie Dillard reminds us, how we spend our days is how we spend our lives. Why not spend your life living well each and everyday? ~SIMILAR POSTS FROM THE ARCHIVES YOU MIGHT ENJOY: ~Episode #32: The Francophile's Style Guide: The 14 Essentials ~10 Gifts of Mastering the French Mystique ~Why Not . . . Indulge Your Inner Francophile? ~Why Not . . . Find Your Je Ne Sais Quoi? ~10 Ways to Unearth Your Inner Francophile (episode #4) ~French-Inspired Living: Books to Enjoy Petit Plaisir: Befriend a local wine shop to ensure great wines no matter what the occasion. ~Liner & Elsen "One of America's six great main street wine shops." -Bon Appetit 2222 NW Quimby St. (off 22nd Ave.) Portland, OR 97210 They can ship the wine to you! Staff who've helped me in the past: Neil Thompson and Kevin Geller ~Chateau Du Grand Bos (2005) Bordeaux, France (wine enjoyed in the photo to the right). ~Images: (1) a cafe in Paris in Montmartre captured by TSLL

Moore’s law, which states that the number of transistors on a microchip doubles every two years, has fueled rapid computing gains since the mid-20th century. But will this law last forever? Today’s guest, Neil Thompson, thinks its end is near. I’ve invited Neil on the podcast to explain why Moore’s Law may be coming to […]