Podcasts about reimagining

simple: 1. Generate knowledge 2. Turn it into real-world solutions 3. Repeat—with joyBut instead of pretending that this happens in a perfectly rational system, I want to remind people: it's allowed to be fun.Serious progress can come from play.Deep insight can come from silliness.The point is to keep going, and keep trying—even when it feels pointless.

A new movement in the United States is taking shape in maternal care, one that seeks to restore trust, center women, and protect lives. On this episode of The Dose podcast, Dr. Joel Bervell talks with author and advocate Elaine Welteroth about her own struggle finding patient-centered care during pregnancy and how the organization she founded, birthFUND, is funding midwifery care, supporting new mothers, and reimagining what safe, empowering birth can look like in America.

In this episode of Thought Behind Things, we sit down with Usman Saleem, Co-Founder & CEO of Khazanay, Pakistan's biggest used sneaker and thrift brand.Usman shares his journey from losing his father at an early age, working graphic design jobs for just ₨8,000 a month, to building one of Pakistan's most disruptive retail startups.We talk about:How Khazanay sold its first pair of shoesMeeting Sam Altman at Y CombinatorHow they refurbish branded sneakersTapping into leftover clothing Khazanay's scale & GrowthLong-term growth, Islamic finance, and Pakistan's 2050 outlookSocials:TBT's Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thoughtbehindthings/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TBT's TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@tbtbymuzamil⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TBT's Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/thoughtbehindthings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TBT Clips: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@tbtpodcastclips⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Muzamil's Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/muzamilhasan/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Muzamil's LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/muzamilhasan/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Usman's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mhdusmansaleem/Special thanks to Kickstart for providing us with the studio space.You can find out more about them at: ⁠⁠https://kickstart.pk/⁠⁠Credits:Executive Producer: Syed Muzamil Hasan ZaidiAssociate Producer: Saad ShehryarPublisher: Talha ShaikhEditor: Jawad Sajid

The Reimagining of Football is a feature podcast hosted by Graeme and Christian and featuring Jack Coles, Head of Recruitment at Lincoln City Football Club. Jack has vast experience in football recruitment and data analysis at several different clubs in England.The podcast looks at the state of modern football recruitment and how decisions are often made by more traditional means with data not being fully utilised despite the success of clubs like Brighton and Brentford.The panel discuss managerial recruitment, the integration of data and youth development and the challenges faced by clubs like Celtic in balancing long-term strategies with short term competitive pressure.

This week on "Off The Cuff," Melanie and Karen explain how the end of the government shutdown will impact the Department of Education (ED) and outline what comes next in the federal spending process. The team then highlights the Higher Education Act's (HEA) recent 60th anniversary and discusses how Congress can work to reauthorize the law. Hugh joins in to provide a brief update on a recent Senate hearing that sought to address affordability concerns and provide clarity on college pricing. The team is then joined by Ben Montecillo, MPA, FAAC®, executive director of scholarships & financial aid at the University of Houston, to discuss some key takeaways from the Reimagining and Improving Student Education (RISE) committee negotiated rulemaking session, where ED was able to reach consensus on provisions enacted under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

Let's Think About "Reimagining Death" With Special Guest Melissa Meadow Melissa shares her thoughts on reimagining death, reminding people that there are alternative options when it comes to dealing with the death of our loved ones. While learning about Melissa, we discussed how she got into the funeral business industry and the different ways people manage death care. This episode aims to prompt thought.  To stay in touch, please visit Melissa's website at https://www.themodernmortician.com/ to learn more about her.

Send us a textAs customer expectations shift and loyalty programs across industries evolve, Carnival Cruise Line is setting a new course for what engagement can look like at sea. Building on over 50 years of guest passion and brand recognition, the company is introducing an entirely new loyalty framework that mirrors the sophistication of leading airline and hotel programs, while keeping the fun, inclusive spirit that defines the Carnival experience. At the helm of this transformation is Sidharth Krishna, Vice President of Loyalty, who brings deep expertise from the airline industry and a clear vision for the future of cruising: one where guests can earn, engage, and celebrate loyalty in more ways than ever before. 

Send us a textIn this episode of the FuturePrint Podcast, Marcus Timson speaks with Javier Quesada, CEO of Kento Digital Printing, about how hybrid technology is reshaping the corrugated packaging industry.With nearly two decades in the box-making business at companies like Saica and DS Smith, Quesada brings a rare dual perspective: the pragmatism of a packaging producer and the vision of a technology innovator. He explains how this background shaped Kento's mission to make digital printing work for the corrugated sector – not as a replacement for flexo, but as a complementary, cost-efficient tool that adds value where it matters most.The discussion explores the three main barriers that have slowed digital adoption in corrugated – high ink costs, capital expenditure, and inline converting – and how Kento's hybrid approach directly tackles each. By combining flexo, digital, and rotary die-cutting in one line, converters can achieve shorter runs, faster changeovers, and reduced waste. Kento's modular system also allows companies to start small and scale up over time, opening digital transformation to independent converters that historically lacked access to high-end technology.Looking ahead, Quesada reveals Kento's latest innovation: a high-viscosity, water-based inkjet system designed to cut energy use, enhance colour performance, and maintain the structural integrity of corrugated fibre. It's a practical step toward greater sustainability and lower production costs.Throughout the conversation, Quesada's message is clear: the future of corrugated is evolution, not disruption. Hybrid systems, modular design, and smart partnerships will drive a new era of efficient, sustainable, and achievable innovation in packaging.This episode offers valuable insight for converters, OEMs, and brand leaders looking to balance commercial realism with technological progress.Listen on:Apple PodcastGoogle PodcastSpotifyWhat is FuturePrint? FuturePrint is a digital and in person platform and community dedicated to future print technology. Over 20,000 people per month read our articles, listen to our podcasts, view our TV features, click on our e-newsletters and attend our in-person and virtual events. We hope to see you at one of our future in-person events:FuturePrint TECH: Industrial Print: 21-22 January '26, Munich, Germany

Rare Earths, Global Conflicts, and Reimagining Democracy. Gregory Copley analyzes China's rare earth monopoly, noting it was achieved through low pricing and unsafe practices but is now eroding as global suppliers ramp up production. He reviews current global conflicts, viewing the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford battle group near Venezuela as a test of brinkmanship, and citing Kyiv's admission of losses in Ukraine. Copley also argues that democracy is "dead," advocating for a return to defining the spirit of a social contract rather than relying on mutable laws.

Rare Earths, Global Conflicts, and Reimagining Democracy. Gregory Copley analyzes China's rare earth monopoly, noting it was achieved through low pricing and unsafe practices but is now eroding as global suppliers ramp up production. He reviews current global conflicts, viewing the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford battle group near Venezuela as a test of brinkmanship, and citing Kyiv's admission of losses in Ukraine. Copley also argues that democracy is "dead," advocating for a return to defining the spirit of a social contract rather than relying on mutable laws. 1862 PLATO SYMPOSIUM VIA MUNICH

Rare Earths, Global Conflicts, and Reimagining Democracy. Gregory Copley analyzes China's rare earth monopoly, noting it was achieved through low pricing and unsafe practices but is now eroding as global suppliers ramp up production. He reviews current global conflicts, viewing the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford battle group near Venezuela as a test of brinkmanship, and citing Kyiv's admission of losses in Ukraine. Copley also argues that democracy is "dead," advocating for a return to defining the spirit of a social contract rather than relying on mutable laws. 1914 MELBOURNE

Rare Earths, Global Conflicts, and Reimagining Democracy. Gregory Copley analyzes China's rare earth monopoly, noting it was achieved through low pricing and unsafe practices but is now eroding as global suppliers ramp up production. He reviews current global conflicts, viewing the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford battle group near Venezuela as a test of brinkmanship, and citing Kyiv's admission of losses in Ukraine. Copley also argues that democracy is "dead," advocating for a return to defining the spirit of a social contract rather than relying on mutable laws. 1955

A repeated theme on this show is the goal of a well-lived life, and one of the ways Jim aims to live well is through working out. Moving your body, building strength, and finding balance are essential to living fully. Our guest this week on The CMO Podcast is helping millions of people do exactly that through one of the most ambitious brand transformations in the industry.Nicholas “Nic” Berglund is the Senior Vice President and Chief Creative Officer of Life Time, the company redefining what it means to be a fitness brand. Under Nic's creative leadership, Life Time has evolved from a gym chain into a “luxury wellness country club,” with more than 225 destinations across North America and a market cap near $3 billion. Before joining Life Time, Nic shaped campaigns for major brands like Cadillac, PepsiCo, and Gap, and even launched his own wellness venture. So tune in for our final episode captured at the Best Buy Studios, where Jim chats with a creative leader who starts the day off with a good workout. ---This week's episode is brought to you by Best Buy Ads.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss why 7-Eleven is opening more stores even as foot traffic falls, explore its next engine of growth, and consider some bold moves that could help future-proof the convenience store giant. Listen to the discussion with Vice President of Content and host Suzy Davidkhanian, Senior Analyst Blake Droesch, and Principal Analyst Sarah Marzano.   To learn more about our research and get access to PRO+, go to EMARKETER.com   Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/   For sponsorship opportunities contact us: advertising@emarketer.com   For more information visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/   Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com    For a transcript of this episode click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-japan-s-konbini-culture-america-s-convenience-crisis-7-eleven-s-next-move-reimagining-retail   © 2025 EMARKETER   Nielsen is a global leader in audience measurement, data and analytics. Through our understanding of people and their behaviors across all channels and platforms, we empower our clients with independent and actionable intelligence so they can connect and engage with their global audiences—now and into the future. Learn more at www.nielsen.com

From the “Baker Briefing” podcast: A water crisis along the U.S.-Mexico border is growing. The 1944 Water Treaty has long guided how both nations share the Rio Grande and Colorado rivers, but climate change, drought, and growing demand are testing its limits. Guest host Tony Payan speaks with Rosario Sanchez, a senior research scientist at the Texas Water Resources Institute, and Ivonne Cruz, a research scholar at the Baker Institute, about how to rethink water cooperation for an age of scarcity — and what it will take to build a more resilient future for both countries. Featured guests: Ivonne Cruz, Ph.D., https://www.bakerinstitute.org/expert/ivonne-cruz Rosario Sanchez, Ph.D., https://twri.tamu.edu/rosario-sanchez/   Mentioned in this episode: Mexico Country Outlook 2026, Rice University's Baker Institute, https://www.bakerinstitute.org/research/mexico-country-outlook-2026 More about Tony Payan, Ph.D.: https://www.bakerinstitute.org/expert/tony-payan Follow Tony Payan on X (@PayanTony) and LinkedIn. You can follow @BakerInstitute and @BakerInstMexico on X, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Learn more about our data-driven, nonpartisan policy research and analysis at bakerinstitute.org.

The Heritage International School is an educational initiative designed to provide a Christadelphian faith-based online learning environment for students worldwide. Inspired by the theme "Inspiring Minds, Transforming Lives," this school aims to integrate biblical principles with practical, real-world learning, ensuring students not only achieve high academic outcomes but also develop strong values and attitudes.

Jared Fox, education consultant, former NYC secondary science teacher and the author of Learning Environment: Inspirational Actions, Approaches, and Stories from the Science Classroom (Beacon Press, 2025), guides teachers in taking science education beyond the classroom, drawing on his experience teaching science in Washington Heights.

Host Paul Spain is joined by Jonathan Brabant (Workday), for a deep dive into how Workday is helping Kiwi businesses modernise their HR and finance systems. From cloud-native architecture to AI-powered insights, discover how Workday is enabling smarter decisions and driving agility across Aotearoa.Plus, we unpack the latest tech news including Microsoft's AI pricing apology and refunds in NZ and Australia, Meta's revenue from fraudulent ads, Lensare's award winning glasses, $35k teleoperated home robot from 1X, and the UK's Capture IT compensation scheme and more.Thanks to our Partners One NZ, Workday, 2degrees, HP, Spark and Gorilla Technology

As Chicago neighborhoods continue to expand with newly built businesses and homes, new opportunities emerge for residents to shape their communities. Yet, traditional development often leaves residents with little to no say on – or stake in - what gets built in their neighborhoods. Shared ownership flips the traditional development script by allowing residents to help improve their communities while also benefiting from new investment. Community members can take a stake in housing, business, and land, ensuring long-term community control, preserving affordability, and building community wealth. In this episode of Trust Talks, host Mariah Van Ermen, the Trust's program manager for neighborhood impact and shared ownership, is joined by Linda Lutton, co-founder and project manager for expansion at Pilsen Housing Cooperative; Kimberly Britt, co-owner of Jumpstart Housing & Worker Cooperative and co-owner of ChiFresh Kitchen; and David Feinberg, director of coaching and knowledge transfer at Chicago Community Loan Fund. Together, they explore how shared ownership can be a powerful tool for advancing community-led development. Shared ownership approaches are community-specific and can be tools to build generational wealth, combat displacement, and enable community self-determination.  They also share resources and funding strategies to help others explore shared ownership in their own communities.This episode was produced by Juneteenth Productions and recorded at WBEZ Chicago.

This week on Sunday Night Teacher Talk, CJ gets fired up about what it really takes to grow as a teacher—and how to mentor others without losing yourself in the process. He shares honest stories about co-teaching wins and disasters, classroom aides who ghost on the job, and what to do when your enthusiasm doesn't match your students' vibe (Tigger vs. Eeyore energy).We also talk about grading with ChatGPT, strategies for teaching reproductive health with maturity, and the hard truth of what to do when the school you once loved no longer feels like home. Whether you're mentoring someone new, thinking about leaving the classroom, or trying to find your spark again—this one's for you.0:00 – Show intro + fired up for part two of the school year5:40 – Mentoring a first-year teacher: 3 core principles12:45 – What to do when your classroom aide isn't helping18:10 – Tigger vs. Eeyore: Matching student energy22:30 – Using ChatGPT for grading and instructional planning28:10 – Teaching reproductive health & handling awkward moments36:00 – Giving meaningful student feedback and adapting lessons40:25 – Co-teaching success stories (and failures)46:15 – Getting assigned 80 more students: What now?52:30 – Rebuilding culture when students don't want to be in class58:00 – Should I leave teaching? Finding new soil to grow in1:02:10 – Should I take a school counselor position?1:06:45 – Saying goodbye to students and building a return culture1:10:30 – Standards-based grading: Is it serving your students?1:13:20 – Teaching students across multiple levels (and scaffolding tips)1:17:15 – Reimagining admin observations and evaluations1:24:40 – Parent-teacher conference strategy: What really matters1:30:30 – Final thoughts + invite CJ to speak at your school

Sesame Street has gone global today, with new episodes dropping on Netflix, also marking the show's 56th anniversary. And, in an age where kids have access to endless amounts of entertainment, will there be much of an appetite for Sesame Street - is there a need for a reimagination of kids TV in general?Joining Ciara Doherty to discuss is author Sarah Maria Griffin.

In this enlightening episode, we welcome our special guest, content creator Chotsani Gordon, who shares her journey of personal rebranding and spiritual alignment. Discover the five essential steps every Christian woman should take before marriage, as she guides us through building a life rooted in faith, clarity, and purpose. Join us for an inspiring conversation that empowers women to embrace their identity and deepen their faith without the pressures of hustle or survival mode.

In Imagining and Reimagining the Restoration, Robert A. Rees embarks on an imaginative and profound exploration of Latter-day Saint theology and culture. Through essays, poems, and midrashic interpretations, Rees sheds new light on foundational doctrines, the roles of prophetic imagination, and... The post Imagining and Reimagining the Restoration – Robert A. Rees 9 appeared first on The Cultural Hall Podcast.

Internal medicine physician Robert C. Smith discusses his article "Why medicine needs a second Flexner Report." In this episode, Robert explores how modern medical education has fallen behind the science it was built on, leaving today's physicians unprepared to address mental health, chronic disease, and prevention. He examines how the historical "mind-body split" continues to shape curricula and care delivery, calling for a new nationwide investigation—akin to Abraham Flexner's 1910 report—to ensure medicine once again aligns with the most current scientific understanding. Viewers will gain insight into how reforming physician training could restore medicine's scientific integrity, improve health outcomes, and reduce the staggering costs of inefficiency. Our presenting sponsor is Microsoft Dragon Copilot. Microsoft Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow, is transforming how clinicians work. Now you can streamline and customize documentation, surface information right at the point of care, and automate tasks with just a click. Part of Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare, Dragon Copilot offers an extensible AI workspace and a single, integrated platform to help unlock new levels of efficiency. Plus, it's backed by a proven track record and decades of clinical expertise, and it's built on a foundation of trust. It's time to ease your administrative burdens and stay focused on what matters most with Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended

What if the litigation model we've relied on for decades… is actually broken? Today on the Legally Speaking Podcast™ Live, sponsored by Clio, our host Rob Hanna, sat down with Collin Williams, Founder & Chairman of New Era ADR, to explore how technology is reshaping the future of dispute resolution.Collin's journey from Big Law to legal tech founder is a masterclass in courage, creativity, and conviction.Here's what we uncovered:- The moment he realised traditional litigation was no longer fit for purpose- Why fear, not technology, is often the biggest barrier to innovation How - New Era ADR is making arbitration faster, fairer, and more accessible - What law firms must do now to stay ahead of the next wave of legal tech- Why diversity of thought is non-negotiable when building the future of law “Litigation shouldn't take years or millions to deliver justice; technology can make it faster, fairer, and more human.” “The legal profession doesn't need to be disrupted; it needs to evolve with purpose.”Collin's passion for access to justice and innovation is contagious and a timely reminder that the legal world can, and should, work better for everyone.

Hosted by Justin Brown, former Secretary of Human Services in Oklahoma and Founder of Global True North and Luke Williams, President of Tandem Research.In this episode of the Renaissance Series, we explore how human services is entering a new era—one defined by innovation, connection, and purpose. These conversations go beyond systems and policies to highlight the stories of people and partnerships rebuilding trust, creating modern pathways, and finding the humanity within public service.Join us as we uncover the ideas and moments shaping a renaissance in government and human services—where technology, compassion, and leadership come together to build systems that truly serve people.

In this deeply personal episode, Jonathan Fields reveals the transformative results of his two-year, 2x20 Project™experiment—an intentional journey of reinvention designed to set up the next 20 years of his life.Through candid reflections on hands-on creativity, meaningful connections, and confronting long-held fears, Jonathan shares how this structured yet fluid approach to life redesign has led to unexpected breakthroughs and a clearer vision of what it means to live authentically.Links mentioned in this episode: A Surprisingly Simple Way to Heal Chronic Pain that ACTUALLY Works? | Nicole Sachs, LCSWWhy Secrets Wreck Us: a Science-backed Practice to Reveal and Heal | James W. PennebakerLearn more about the 2x20 Experience™ here.Episode TranscriptCheck out our offerings & partners: Join My New Writing Project: Awake at the WheelVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount CodesCheck out our offerings & partners: Beam Dream Powder: Visit https://shopbeam.com/GOODLIFE and use code GOODLIFE to get our exclusive discount of up to 40% off. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we're taking a moment to look ahead. Carol Barrie from the RHS  Science and Collections Department joins us to talk about Plants for Purpose, an ambitious new project she's leading in collaboration with the University of Nottingham. It's using the power of AI, alongside the RHS's vast Herbarium, to build a living knowledge bank of plants that benefit the environment. We'll also turn our gaze to spring, as now's the perfect time to get tulips in the ground before the ground gets too wet or freezes. We revisit Arundel Castle, where back in 2022, 80,000 tulip bulbs arrived for a spectacular spring display. And finally, we head to RHS Rosemoor to meet Emma McFarline, who'll be exploring the practical, and sometimes surprising, uses of familiar garden plants, from their roles in history to their value today. Host: Guy Barter Contributors: Carol Barrie, Martin Duncan, Emma McFarline Links: Plants for Purpose Project RHS Plants for Pollinators Planting tulips for seasonal colour Scientific overview of rosemary Biomedical research on rosemary as a therapeutic agent Therapeutic effects of rosemary on nervous system disorders Calendula in modern medicine Common mullein, pharmacological and chemical aspects

The Power of Personalized Employee Benefits: Insights from Jordan Peace, CEO & Co-founder of FringeIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Jordan Peace, CEO and Co-founder of Fringe, a platform transforming how companies design and deliver employee benefits. Jordan shares how Fringe helps employers create personalized, meaningful, and easy-to-manage benefit programs that boost engagement and retention. The conversation explores the rise of lifestyle benefits, the limitations of traditional programs, and why personalization and simplicity are key to supporting today's workforce.Rethinking Employee Benefits for the Modern WorkforceJordan explains that traditional benefits—like health insurance and retirement plans—only help employees in moments of crisis, leaving a gap in daily well-being. Modern workers expect more personalized, relevant benefits that support their everyday lives and families. That's where Fringe comes in: a lifestyle benefits platform that consolidates hundreds of perks—from streaming subscriptions and meal delivery to childcare and wellness services—into one intuitive system.The platform empowers employees to choose benefits that matter most to them using company-funded “Fringe Points.” This personalization drives engagement and makes employees feel genuinely valued, while employers gain insight into benefit usage and preferences. Jordan also highlights Fringe's Four-Filter Approach—focusing on offerings that save time, reduce stress, impact families, and spark joy—ensuring that every benefit delivers real value.Instead of offering generic cash bonuses or one-size-fits-all perks, Jordan emphasizes the emotional and cultural impact of personalized benefits. They foster connection, increase retention, and create what he calls a “flywheel of engagement.” With Fringe, companies of any size—from startups to global enterprises—can offer world-class benefits that elevate employee experience while simplifying HR management.About Jordan PeaceJordan Peace is the CEO and Co-founder of Fringe, an innovative benefits platform that helps companies offer personalized, lifestyle-based perks to their employees. With a background in financial planning and a passion for people-first culture, Jordan is redefining how organizations think about employee engagement, recognition, and well-being in the modern workplace.About FringeFringe is an employee benefits platform that consolidates rewards, recognition, wellness programs, and lifestyle perks into one seamless experience. Through the use of customizable “Fringe Points,” employees choose benefits that fit their individual needs—ranging from mental health apps to travel experiences. By simplifying benefit management and emphasizing personalization, Fringe helps companies of all sizes attract, retain, and support happier, more engaged teams. Visit https://www.fringe.us/ to learn more.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeJordan Peace LinkedIn ProfileFringe WebsiteKey Episode HighlightsTraditional benefits often miss the mark—employees want support that improves daily life.Fringe's platform personalizes perks using “Fringe Points,” empowering employee choice.The Four Filters—time savings, stress reduction, family impact, and joy creation—guide benefit selection.Personalized benefits boost engagement and retention far more effectively than cash...

In this episode of Manager Minute, host Carol Pankow welcomes Dr. Chaz Compton and Dr. Meera Adya, co-directors of the new National Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center (NVRTAC). They discuss how the Center builds on decades of innovation in vocational rehabilitation (VR) to unify training, evaluation, and technology that strengthen state VR agencies across the nation. Partnering with The George Washington University, the National Disability Institute, CSAVR, YesLMS, Case Review Solutions, SaraWorks, and Intellitech, the NVRTAC delivers comprehensive technical assistance to enhance performance, fiscal management, and employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Key initiatives include AI-driven tools such as SaraWorks and Case Amplify, designed to reduce administrative burdens and capture real-world impact. The team is also launching leadership and fiscal talent development programs, expanding recruitment and retention efforts, and embedding continuous evaluation across all initiatives. Their goal is to achieve measurable outcomes, real change, and a stronger, more efficient VR system serving individuals with disabilities.   Listen Here   Full Transcript:   {Music} Chaz: Right now, not ten years from now, but right today, we have the capacity to. Turn our administrative burden into an AI driven function that alleviates that burden.   Meera: Input is getting provided at the beginning and the middle at the end all over again. It really is that measurable and real change and ongoing calibration towards that is our North star.   Chaz: And having actual measurable outcome improvements. So simple as that.   Carol: That sounds good. How about you? What do you think?   Meera: Nothing to add. Measurable outcomes. Real change. Drop the mic.   Carol: Boom! I love it.   {Music} Intro Voice: Manager Minute, brought to you by the Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center. Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host, Carol Pankow.   Carol: Well, welcome to the Manager Minute. Joining me in the studio today are my close colleagues, doctor Chaz Compton and Doctor Meera Adya, Co-project directors of the new National Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center, or VRTAC for short. So woohoo you guys! I'm so excited to have you here. How are things going Chaz?   Chaz: Wonderful. Very busy and very happy to be here. Thank you.   Carol: Excellent. How about you, Meera? How's it going?   Meera: Pretty good.   Carol: Awesome. Well, glad to have you both. I just want to give a little bit of history for our listeners. The Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Centers have a long and rich history rooted in the Rehabilitation Act itself. And from the very beginning, the act recognized that helping individuals with disabilities achieve meaningful employment requires more than just funding. It requires a system of continuous learning, innovation and improvement. And that's why the Rehabilitation Services Administration has long invested in national technical assistance centers to strengthen state VR agencies, build staff capacity and ensure programs stay aligned with evolving regulations, Relations, research and best practices, and over the years, these centers from the early TACE centers to WINTAC and the QM and QE and AIVR TAC and all the things, and now the new NBR tech have become the backbone of progress in our field, helping translate policy into practice and ensuring that the promise of the Rehabilitation Act remains strong for the next generation. So let's dig in. Gang, can you tell our listeners a little bit about yourselves and your journey into VR? And, Chaz, I'm going to kick it to you first.   Chaz: Okay. Gosh, it's been 40 years now. Hard to believe. I started with a community rehab program 40 years ago this year.   Carol: Wow.   Chaz: A few years later, I moved into the public VR program in California. I was a counselor, a supervisor, and then a district administrator and got my doctorate degree at San Diego State University and moved over and directed the TA Center 15 years ago, and then the WINTAC and then the VRTAC-QM and now the what we call the VR TAC, the national VRTAC.   Carol: That is awesome. I did not realize it was 40 whole years. Chaz, I think we're pretty close in age to each other.   Chaz: It's been a while.   Carol: Meera, how about you? How'd you get your journey into this world?   Meera: Well, my work has always been at the intersection of empiricism and law and policy. So I'm a researcher and evaluator. I've done projects looking at how people with disabilities can be successful in workplaces and communities, thinking about inter work and the VR system. More specifically, I became engaged first as a partner, leading the program evaluation for Interworks Wintech centre. And then Chaz convinced me to come to Interworks continue doing what I was doing by taking the lead on the program evaluation for the VR, QM, and then our portfolio at Interworks has grown. Now there are several disability innovation grants and customized employment projects in addition to the TAC that we are leading the evaluation on. And Chaz then offered me the opportunity to continue growing my work, and here I am as the co-director of the center as a whole, and I'm honored and thrilled to support Chaz and our team. Take the work with VR and its partners forward to improve outcomes for people with disabilities.   Carol: I love it Meera, and you're a good addition, and we're really happy to have you as the Co-project director, too. So what is the overarching purpose of our new VR TAC?   Chaz: It is to provide technical assistance and training that will help VR agencies and their partners improve service delivery and increase the quantity and quality of employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities being served by VR program and their partners. Our major focus areas include helping agencies effectively manage the program, the performance of the program, the fiscal side of the program and their resources, and helping them identify and implement effective employment strategies and practices that accomplish the overarching goal of helping improve outcomes and service delivery. That's the big picture.   Carol: It is cool because it's like soup to nuts. I think sometimes, you know, the previous TAC, you know, they had very kind of more specific focus. And then with the QM and like QE too, you know, it expanded. But now we've got the whole shebang in one place.   Chaz: Mhm.   Carol: Very fun. Meera do you have anything you wanted to add to that?   Meera: Sure. I was just thinking about all the work that Chaz has been doing, the messages he sends us and how we've come together and so far trying to put it into an encapsulation. I've been coming up with one team or his words, but I think just such a good representation and you'll see that now in our messaging going forward, but also a yes. And we don't say no. We find a way to work together and is so what, what is the measurable change that's going to result from the work we do? I think you're going to see that over the next five years constantly coming up.   Carol: Yeah, I like that, Meera. You got to keep us grounded in that. About the so what? So what we can do lots of activities. But so what about them? And I see, Chaz, you're smiling at me because, you know, I'm an activity person. And it's like, but what's the benefit from what we did? So how does the new TAC build on the work in the lessons that were learned from all the previous work?   Chaz: Well, to say we've learned some lessons along the way, especially in the last ten years, would be an understatement. There have been the implementation of WIOA and all of the requirements associated with that, living through all of the implementation with agencies, helping them respond to that effectively, looking at the demographic shift in the field to youth, where now the majority of the people we serve are 24 years of age or younger. Looking at going into and out of Covid and how that changed service delivery, how the fiscal landscape of the program changed accordingly, how we have seen the pendulum shift fiscally from one side to the other and now back again. All of that has helped inform, I think, the development of our technical assistance and the training and the way we go into this new center. So we have just a bunch of lived experience, if you will, along with agencies. So what they have gone through, we have gone through with them, and I think we can help them successfully navigate the future. And while at the same time responding to the challenges that they face right now. So all of that, I think, really has laid an important foundation for the VRTAC and the work we're going to be doing with agencies.   Carol: I think you hit the nail with that. I think about all the last five years, even the work I've done and our team has done and how deep we got in with agencies like it felt like we were part. I often talk when I'm in at agency, I talk about we like I'm part of them because you're enmeshed in everything they're doing and their systems and their people and their meetings and all of their things. You become so ingrained with them. It really helped you to get such a clear picture of what was happening and helps really get maybe at the root of some of the issues and to develop that work fundamentally so that the seeds we laid could really grow and germinate and keep going forever and keep growing and growing and growing. So it isn't just a one shot. We did a little quick training and we're out of there. It really became such a deep lesson. Meera, how about for you with that lessons learned? I'm sure evaluation wise there are things you were thinking about as well.   Meera: Oh, absolutely. We have all of our past evaluation reports and findings, and we can keep looking at those. And I certainly keep bringing them up whenever it strikes me that there's a relevant point that comes forward again. And you can see with the way that Chaz has put together these innovative partners and projects, a continuation of the successful approaches and partnerships as well, and just a laser focus on measurable change that evolution and improvement and lessons learned is just baked into the center. As a research and evaluator, I know firsthand how the knowledge translation pipeline takes time, but it can take less time when you work directly with stakeholders from the beginning, and that's what's happening with us. Chaz has always taken evaluation seriously, woven it into the very fabric of the work. Stakeholders are the partners. They hold us accountable. We continuously are learning what's working. Pivot when needs must.   Carol: Well said Meera. Thank you for that. What current challenges do you guys see in the VR system that make a unified national TA center so important right now?   Chaz: To say that efficiency, accountability and improved outcomes are important would be an understatement. And this is not a new focus, of course. I mean, you have to go back to the movement of the Rehabilitation Act under the Workforce Investment Act of 1988, which was really an attempt to improve efficiency and refrain from duplication of services and improve outcomes and all that stuff. And that focus has just grown and grown,   Carol: right.   Chaz: and so a unified center is I mean, it really is helpful to ensure that everything is administrated under one center that we're focused on, you know, whether it's focused on improving performance, like on the performance measures, like improving an agency's ability to manage their fiscal resources or implement employment strategies like, say, customized employment, a unified center can address all of these aspects together, holistically, understand how they interact with each other and an agency. Instead of having 2 or 3 different entities trying to work together with a VR program differently, with different ways of doing business, ways of interacting all that. So it just is a very efficient, I hope. Anyway, an enhanced holistic way of working with an agency. Ultimately, I believe that will contribute to increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes.   Carol: I like the part with the employment being in with us now. Not that employment wasn't in our mind, but it was distant because we'd always put it like we, you know, we're referring folks over to the Q2E, but now with it all integrated, it really does kind of front and center. You're thinking about the fiscal things that my group is working at and how our impact is helping the program, maybe for stability or whatever may be going on, does impact the employment outcomes in the end, and the funds that are available and whether people go on an order or not, you know, all those kind of things. So I like that having it all together, it's a little closer, at least in my head. Meera, did you have any thoughts about that one as well?   Meera: I echo everything you both have said. The unified voice. Central voice. This center has always been a supportive voice. It is always on, always available, and that continues to be really needed. That is something we've heard in the evaluation interviews and feedback that we've received is that folks really appreciate being able to just call, get someone on the other end, get an answer right away, send an email, hear back right away. The responsiveness and the targeted information that they need has been phenomenal. And so looking forward to that continuing. And now across the whole range and spectrum of what technical assistance is needed. As you both have said, It's a time of, you know, as was said, significant change requirements may be shifting again, a laser focus on efficiency and effectiveness of work, which is right. And, you know, in the broader context, we're seeing significant disruption in the work world. And the future of work has been talked about. The future of work is here today. It's the today of how we work. And agencies need help navigating all of that with their customers. There's a lot for our stakeholders and our partners to navigate. I think we've seen from the evaluation feedback, this is where our team under Chaz really excels. It just brings together the many. It brings together the a lot. It goes to the heart of it and meets it on the grant.   Carol: Yeah. You lead into my next question about the partners on the grant because we have a deep bench. I mean, I felt like we had really phenomenal folks on the QM grant. But when I look at the partners you all have brought together for this, and we're on our first meetings and you've got, you know, 30 people in the Hollywood Squares instead of a dozen or so. It's a cool bunch, and people with such interesting expertise. So Chaz, who are the partners on our grant?   Chaz: Our biggest and primary partner is the George Washington University. We've been partners with them for really since national centers were funded. They were part of the WINTAC, part of the QM, and now we'll be a obviously a critical part of the VR TAC Every single one of them is a doer. Their hands are have their hands have gotten dirty and providing like literally in the trenches to just like our own staff at work Institute at San Diego State. We just have been, practically speaking, teammates for a very long time. We know each other well, we work together well, and we're very confident in each other's work. GW a big, huge partner of ours. Then there's the National Disability Institute, which is also a longtime partner of ours. They'll be helping with the employment strategies component of things and just are a very well respected, nationally known institute that is really has some super interesting and helpful information and resources and knowledge along with the rest of the team. Of course, many of our listeners will know. Yes LMS, we're working with Linda and her team this time around, expanding our available training resources to users out there. CSAVR of course, is another long time partner. Everybody knows them. Sara Works is a partner of ours as well. Sara Works has been a partner again since the WINTAC days and, you know, has done all kinds of work with us in terms of developing Sara, the AI program to help act as an assistant to VR programs, communication tool and so on. Then we have Case Review Solutions. It's just a new partner of ours this time around focused on quality assurance, case reviews, contract monitoring. So another use of software and technology to basically provide solutions to VR programs. And another new partner this time around in Intellitech, which has created a program called Case Amplify, which is an AI driven system, which we'll talk about here in a few minutes, but we're really excited about this one as well, because it provides an opportunity for agencies to see how things could potentially be different and more effective into the future. So those are our primary partners, yeah.   Carol: yeah. It's exciting. It's a cool group of people I really was thrilled to see in the very secret proposal that you would not share with us before we went in, and then you see what all the things are that are going to happen. You are always known, though, Chaz, for being the guy. You have those little fun projects that become part of the grant that you know, live on and people are able to carry out and they've created really cool things. This proposal with the exciting AI initiatives, can you share what tools like Case, Amplify and Sara Works are going to mean for state VR agencies?   Chaz: Absolutely. And I think it's important for folks to understand the why. Right. Like, why are these it's not just because they're fun and they are super fun. You're right. But there really is a reason behind developing these projects. And the primary reason is as agencies have implemented Wioa and this kind of goes back to lessons learned, right? We know that the data elements for, for instance, for the 911 and just the recording processes and all of the administrative responsibilities associated with being in compliance with the law and the regulations is a burden. It's a struggle, and especially in a period of time where recruitment and retention has been a challenge across the country. You know, when you lose people and they're the ones responsible for gathering and reporting this data, IT becomes a real challenge on everybody else. And I honestly, in my heart of hearts, believe that embracing advanced technology is the way out of this. It's the way to effectively respond to it. It's not by hiring more people to do administrative stuff, although that would be wonderful. But, you know, we're in this situation for a reason. And now we have right now, not ten years from now, but right today we have the capacity to turn our administrative burden into an AI driven function that alleviates that burden from VR staff. And that's what the why is behind this? Why are we doing this? Because we want agencies to see and participate. If you know, if they're able and willing in these projects to see what the impact could be. Now, of course, we don't know, for instance, what the impact will fully be. We have a vision for it. But part of what this is is an experiment, right? It's a pilot, if you will, to make sure that we can see how it works. So the idea is that and I'll take Sara because Sara's been around for a while now. A lot of agencies know Sara. They know what's possible. Several of them use the program. Now, in our case, like under the VR tech, we're going to be using Sara to do something for pre-employment transition services that we haven't done yet. Now we're ten years. 11 years. Well, I guess ten years really post implementation 2016 was the full implementation. So we're approaching the ten year mark. And while we focused on implementing projects and tracking and reporting and down to the individual consumer level and all that good stuff. Making sure costs are allowable, that people are spending their 15%, all that good stuff. What we haven't done a very good job of yet is evaluating the impact of those services on individuals themselves. Like how has it impacted them? What does it mean in terms of their future employability or future involvement in post-secondary Ed or whatever it is we're trying to determine? And so using Sara specifically to communicate and gather information with students or former students on the impact of periods, and then analyzing that data and showing the impact, that's really where we're zeroed in on this project for Sara Works. Case Amplify, well let me go to CRS. So Case Review Solutions is a new software program developed by two of our former colleagues in the WINTAC and the QM, Rachel Anderson and Brittany McIvor. So they know right? Like what is it about the review system, the case review process, the process, the quality assurance process that is lacking the internal control process, right? How do we fix that or help fix it anyway? Or help states analyze where the deficiencies are and then give them information real time quickly along multiple levels to help them address it so that it's not a consistent finding and monitoring reviews so that they're on top of the changes that they need to make. So again, it's another technology solution to a challenge facing agencies. And they're also developing a contract monitoring tool that's going to be available later on in the project. That will help states monitor another big one. Right. We hear all the time is we're not sure like whether those contracts are doing what they should be doing and the quality of service delivery and all that stuff. So that's going to help with that. Case Amplify is a AI program that Intellitech has developed. It's so exciting to talk about how this could potentially change. And I mean really change the way that VR staff are gathering and populating information into the case through case management system. Ultimately, it has the capacity ultimately to make the process hands free. That is, you can talk to an individual, and this system is listening and gathering information and populating all over into the CMS important data elements, summarizing meetings. And believe it or not, like if it does what we really want it to do, it's going to actually fill in the 911 data elements automatically based on these conversations at critical points along the pathway.   Carol: That's a game changer for people that alone with those what, 400 elements like that is a game changer.   Chaz: Yeah, I could not be more excited about this one than I am. I just think it's going to be revolutionary. You know, it's still in its development phase fully. It's still going to be kind of an experiment with agencies and how it integrates into their existing CMS. But that's part of why we call it a pilot, because it's supposed to be a way to kind of see if things work the way we want it to work.   Carol: It's so cool. I am really excited. I'm also excited about the whole evaluation part of projects because I long thought, you know, when I was back in Minnesota blind and we were getting all those funds spent on students and I'm like, we're getting at these kids earlier. I just knew in my heart of hearts like, this is going to make such a difference in their trajectory is going forward and employment, they're going to start better. They're going to start better in college because they're going to have all this exposure to things they had not had any exposure to. Finally, the time we get at being able to measure, is that really coming true? I mean, I believe it to be true, but it'll be nice to actually quantify it and go, yeah, this is what's happening for people. And we can see the real difference. And that investment that Congress had said all those years ago, we're going to invest in these kids. And they did it for a reason. And now the proof is going to be in the pudding with the results. I love it. So, Chaz, one of your goals was to strengthen the workforce. So tell us a little bit about the VR Fiscal Talent Accelerator and NRLI, the National Rehabilitation Leadership Institute.   Chaz: Yeah. Great. So most people know NRLI. They've heard about it in the past and or even many participated. I remember at one point a few years ago at a conference, Steve Wooderson said, hey, how many people here have gone to NRLI. And I swear, three quarters of the room raised their hand. So it's over 20 years old now, and it's a training program specifically targeted at the executive leadership level, staff of the VR program and preparing them over a year long process where we meet in person for a week, four weeks out of the year, three times in San Diego, one time in Washington, DC. And there's coaching and training contacts that go on throughout the course of the year in a cohort model. So that is supported by the VRTAC this time around. So that's kind of our primary executive leadership training tool. Then we're developing something new this time around. For those of you who are listening, who are familiar with the management concepts training that was part of the QM, that was the VR grants management certificate program that we developed as part of that center. This time around, we are specifically zeroing in on the fiscal folks in VR and preparing a kind of like, nearly like program for them, where we'll use the same cohort model. I'm not certain of all the details yet, but obviously, Carol, you'll be a super important part of that one. And we'll provide an opportunity for fiscal staff in VR agencies who some obviously like every other position turnover at times. And when they do turnover, if they take the knowledge with them and nobody's coming behind them, it can be really challenging. So the Fiscal Talent Accelerator program will be a way to help them understand all of the responsibilities right under fiscal responsibilities in the VR grant, helping them really manage those resources and effectively so that the agency has both not just in compliance, but has the resources available to serve as many folks as possible.   Carol: Absolutely. Yeah. I'm super excited about all of these projects. We've got a lot of work ahead. I know also, we had started spending some time under the QM addressing, you know, the recruitment and retention issues and leadership development and such. So how do you see that kind of expanding in the new grant?   Chaz: Well, it's definitely expanding. And so we're very excited about that because we know clearly that recruitment and retention especially was a just a real, real issue in the last five years. So we had a recruitment and retention pilot under the QM that worked with four states. And we have some really helpful tools and toolkits developed as a result of that. That's on the QM site now, will be brought forward under the VRTAC, but more importantly will be going into phase two from that process under the VRTAC, looking again at implementing those strategies and practices for recruitment and retention with other agencies, tracking the impact of that over time, and expanding the scope of that. John Walsh was really helpful in leading that effort under the QM, and he'll be doing that again. Also, we're developing onboarding resources for VR programs this time around, helping agencies kind of identify both what to include and giving them actual stuff and resources to include in an onboarding program for VR staff. We're moving beyond just the executive level of training for nearly into mid-level management and supervisory training. Training specifically targeted at those groups, which I think will be really helpful and certainly very needed and engaging in succession planning processes with agencies, both strategic planning and succession planning understanding the two of them are clearly linked, but giving agencies some real strategies and practices on how to develop a succession plan and implement that, so that we're not faced with this sort of mass exodus of institutional knowledge. When people both retire or resign and we're like, oh no, what do we do now? Right. So hopefully we're intending to create resources, training tools to help agencies address that proactively.   Carol: And we have some really awesome staff on this grant. This time around too, that can help. Our bench is deeper. You know, even in this area that are going to be able to help do that. So definitely. Meera, you have something you want to throw in there. I didn't forget you.   Meera: Oh I don't think so. Chaz covered all the practices and new projects really well.   Carol: Okay, Meera, I want you to tackle this one about the evaluation and data driving that ongoing improvement coming forward. Do you have thoughts about that? How's that going to look?   Meera: Sure. I think I spoke to this a little bit earlier, but to pick up from that thread, I mean, that is something we are consistently doing. We have multiple channels and approaches that monitor the work and the change that are taking place. We have custom built apps and tools that our IT group has created, so we can make sure that we're setting up plans and staying on track with the agencies and the work that we're doing with them. And we have stakeholders, partners, customers, all of whom can provide feedback in different ways. We meet regularly to discuss what we are hearing and what we are seeing. Formally speaking, we have two reports that are compiled and shared broadly, internally and with stakeholders. We hold meetings, review the findings, and consider recommendations by taking that report apart and into little bite, but continuously throughout the year. We're not waiting for those big report moments. Evaluation Group has been woven into the work we do. They are a part of all the regular meetings that are taking place for the center, and input is getting provided at the beginning and the middle at the end, all over again. It really is that measurable and real change and ongoing calibration towards that is our North star. That will continue to be so.   Carol: Led by the awesome you, which will be great.   Chaz: Exactly.   Carol: My final question to you too what will success look like for the VRTAC over the next five years. And Chaz, I'll ask you first.   Chaz: Well, it will be demonstrably changing for the better outcomes in the VR program and service delivery. It will be serving individuals with the kind of commitment to meeting their individual needs and wants and desires and employment factors, and agencies operating efficiently and effectively and having actual measurable outcome improvements. So simple as that.   Carol: That sounds good. Meera, how about you? What do you think?   Meera: Nothing to add. He stole it right there at the end. Measurable outcomes. Real change. Drop the mic.   Carol: Boom! I love it. So, how do people find you?   Chaz: Our website will be VRTAC or just VRTAC.org. We have the site kind of really in its shell form right now. We're developing it. Give us a couple of months to get it fully going, but if you need to reach us, you can certainly contact any of us through the channels that you would normally reach us through the VRTAC-QM. Can send an email to me or to you or anybody else on the team. And at this point, I think most agencies are able to reach us in whatever way they want. But soon the website will be up and running and they can get us there or any number of ways.   Carol: Awesome. Well, I sure appreciate both joining me this morning. It was super cool. And we can check back in in a couple years too and go like, woo, where are things now? It'll be fun to report on some more successes. So thank you both. Have a great day.   Chaz: Thanks, Carol. Appreciate you having us.   Meera: Thank you.   Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time. One minute at a time. Brought to you by the VRTAC. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.

Keone Hon, founder of the Monad Foundation joins the show. In this episode: From the point of view of Keone's trading background, what is the promise of blockchains? Reimagining financial systems with blockchains in 2025 Why build Monad, and for anyone using a chain, why use Monad? How the importance of decentralization and chain efficiency becomes underscored during fragile market periods Auto-Deleveraging (ADL): What it is and why it is important. Where is there economic efficiency to be created? How has Keone gone about building a team to tackle this challenge? What would make Monad "successful" in 2-3 years?

You are not a content creator, you're an authority. Authorities don't 'create content'.  They curate a body of work. Bigggggg difference in what you put out into the world (including social).  And, ultimately, in the health of your bank account. Listen as I show you how to curate a bingeable body of work that actually creates clients. ...you'll never look at content creation the same.   The Sanctified Sales implementation intensive - now OPEN! https://judyweberco.thrivecart.com/sanctifiedsales/ Next Steps:

Front desks are evolving fast. Search behavior is changing even faster. Hospitality is staring at a major technology turning point — and those who move now will own the next era of bookings. I connected with Bill Ryan, Chief Technology Officer at BWH Hotels, to talk about how the company is modernizing its tech stack, reducing training time, simplifying payments, and preparing for a future where travelers begin planning inside AI platforms like ChatGPT and Perplexity. We break it all down on #NoVacancyNews, including how intuitive systems free staff to focus on guests, why one-day onboarding matters for retention, and what it takes for hotel brands to become discoverable in AI-driven search. This is a moment to use technology to amplify hospitality, not replace it.

In this podcast episode, we discuss what makes this season unique for the beauty category, what “creating magic” looks like during the holidays when every brand is fighting for attention, and how brands can build real loyalty when discounts dominate the conversation. Listen to the discussion with Vice President of Content and host, Suzy Davidkhanian, Principal Analyst, Sky Canaves, and Head of Marketing for Bluemercury, Minyi Su.   To learn more about our research and get access to PRO+, go to EMARKETER.com   Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/   For sponsorship opportunities, contact us: advertising@emarketer.com   For more information, visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/   Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com    For a transcript of this episode, click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-making-holiday-magic-secret-beauty-brand-loyalty-with-bluemercury-reimagining-retail     © 2025 EMARKETER   Nielsen is a global leader in audience measurement, data and analytics. Through our understanding of people and their behaviors across all channels and platforms, we empower our clients with independent and actionable intelligence so they can connect and engage with their global audiences—now and into the future. Learn more at www.nielsen.com    

In this episode of Workplace Stories, we sit down with Lori Niles-Hoffman, global learning strategist, EdTech advisor, and author of The Eight Levers of EdTech Transformation. With over 25 years of experience implementing large-scale learning systems, Lori brings a no-nonsense, deeply human perspective to how organizations can thrive at the intersection of technology, data, and talent.Lori reveals why EdTech success isn't about shiny tools, it's about mastering eight foundational levers that determine whether your learning strategy creates value or chaos. From ecosystem thinking to stakeholder management, she explains how leaders can future-proof learning strategies through data, design, and disciplined experimentation.You'll hear candid insights on how AI is reshaping L&D, not by changing the rules, but by exposing where we've been weak all along. Lori also shares why the “backend just got sexy,” and how the next competitive edge won't come from beautiful interfaces, but from the quality of data and insights driving them.You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...[00:00] The eight levers shaping EdTech transformation.[06:00] Lessons from 25 years in enterprise learning systems.[09:00] Why most L&D tech investments fail before they start.[14:00] The rise of data literacy and “sexy backends” in learning design.[17:00] Why clean data matters more than new tool.[24:00] A breakdown of the eight levers and how they work together.[29:00] Stakeholder management and ecosystem thinking in practice.[35:00] The new role of AI in exposing weak learning strategies.[39:00] Why skills, not titles, will define the future of learning.[41:00] The human side of transformation: keeping people at the center.The Future of Learning Isn't About Tech, It's About LeverageLori's framework flips the script on how organizations approach learning transformation. Rather than starting with technology, she urges leaders to first clarify their target operating model, data readiness, and stakeholder relationships. The result? Smarter decisions, stronger credibility, and sustainable change.Her book's eight levers, ranging from content strategy to ecosystem alignment, help leaders navigate the “medium term” (through 2028) of rapid evolution in learning technology. As Lori puts it, the goal isn't to adopt AI or automation for their own sake, it's to make learning adaptive, outcomes-focused, and undeniably relevant.Data, Ecosystems, and the “Sexy Backend”Forget fancy dashboards, Lori believes the true revolution is happening behind the scenes. As user interfaces disappear and voice or text prompts replace them, differentiation will come from data governance, interoperability, and predictive insights. The backend, she says, is now where strategy lives.She emphasizes that AI doesn't change the levers, it exposes their weaknesses. The organizations winning in this new era will be those that invest in clean data, aligned systems, and smart stakeholder engagement.Skills as the Spine of the Future WorkforceAmong the eight levers, Lori highlights skills as the “spine” connecting every other element of learning strategy.She challenges L&D professionals to stop chasing shiny taxonomies and instead treat skills like a supply chain, measured, managed, and constantly replenished. The goal isn't just mobility or efficiency; it's resilience.Resources & People MentionedL&D Tech Ecosystem 2020Skills OddysseyLearning Strategy paperLori's bookConnect with Lori Niles-HoffmanLori on LinkedInConnect With Red Thread ResearchWebsite: Red Thread ResearchOn LinkedInOn FacebookOn TwitterSubscribe to WORKPLACE STORIES

This week, we're dropping a special Patreon preview right here on the main feed! Nick and Rob take on the challenge of completely reimagining Disney Springs — with bold ideas, creative twists, and plenty of Disney magic.Enjoy this sneak peek into our Patreon-exclusive content, where we love to dream big and have a little fun along the way!✨ Want more episodes like this? Join our Patreon for bonus shows and extra Disney discussions: www.patreon.com/dislistpodFollow us on Instagram: @dislistpodEmail us: dislistpodcast@gmail.com

This episode features John Polikandriotis, CEO of South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, who shares how reimagining revenue cycle management as both a shield and a sword can drive organizational growth. He discusses the power of data transparency, cross-department collaboration, and patient-centered access models in building a more agile, innovative, and financially strong healthcare organization.This episode is sponsored by NextGen Healthcare.

This episode features John Polikandriotis, CEO of South Florida Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine, who shares how reimagining revenue cycle management as both a shield and a sword can drive organizational growth. He discusses the power of data transparency, cross-department collaboration, and patient-centered access models in building a more agile, innovative, and financially strong healthcare organization.This episode is sponsored by NextGen Healthcare.

Joining John Maytham to unpack this exciting initiative is Gregg Oelofse, the City’s Manager for Coastal Management. He’ll share insights into the challenges facing Miller’s Point and the opportunities that lie ahead. From the popular tidal pool and launch site to the archaeological treasures and breathtaking views, Miller’s Point is a unique node that deserves thoughtful preservation and enhancement. Presenter John Maytham is an actor and author-turned-talk radio veteran and seasoned journalist. His show serves a round-up of local and international news coupled with the latest in business, sport, traffic and weather. The host’s eclectic interests mean the program often surprises the audience with intriguing book reviews and inspiring interviews profiling artists. A daily highlight is Rapid Fire, just after 5:30pm. CapeTalk fans call in, to stump the presenter with their general knowledge questions. Another firm favourite is the humorous Thursday crossing with award-winning journalist Rebecca Davis, called “Plan B”. Thank you for listening to a podcast from Afternoon Drive with John Maytham Listen live on Primedia+ weekdays from 15:00 and 18:00 (SA Time) to Afternoon Drive with John Maytham broadcast on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show go to https://buff.ly/BSFy4Cn or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/n8nWt4x Subscribe to the CapeTalk Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/sbvVZD5 Follow us on social media: CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The U.S. government used to be the largest donor in family planning assistance at $400 million a year. There has been an explicit loss of U.S. leadership and resources in contemporary global health and foreign aid, with significant, negative impacts on supply and health outcomes. Anu Kumar, President and CEO at Ipas, sits down to talk with us about the current status of U.S. foreign assistance and how we can reimagine it for the better.The U.S. government has not been supporting abortion care for 50 years since the Helms Amendment was passed in 1973, and contraception has been facing increasing attacks. The campaign of incorrectly and harmfully equating contraceptives with abortifacients is coming to a head. In addition, there is $9.7 billion dollars' worth of contraception impacted by Trump's foreign aid freeze, which are now sitting in a Belgian warehouse. But we can imagine a more comprehensive, better performing foreign assistance: a reduced transactional quality and the ability for recipient countries to form their own assistance delivery.For more information, check out Pantsuit Politics: https://www.pantsuitpoliticsshow.com/s/podcastSupport the showFollow Us on Social: Twitter: @rePROsFightBack Instagram: @reprosfbFacebook: rePROs Fight Back Bluesky: @reprosfightback.bsky.social Buy rePROs Merch: Bonfire store Email us: jennie@reprosfightback.comRate and Review on Apple PodcastThanks for listening & keep fighting back!

Category marketing is no longer business as usual. In today's retail landscape, it's evolving fast - reshaping how brands collaborate with retailers and how retail media connects to the shopper experience. In this episode, Teresa sits down with Melissa Polglase, General Manager – Marketing & Retail Media at David Jones, to explore what's changing and why. Melissa shares her perspective on how brands can better collaborate with retailer partners, the role of empowerment in driving innovation, and how David Jones' operating model is making integrated conversations across category marketing, eCommerce, and retail media more seamless.

Today, I'm excited to welcome Colton Pond and Simon Taylor, the visionary co-founders of Fintech NerdCon to the Banking Transformed podcast. Fintech NerdCon is an event with no meetings, no sales booths … just top-tier networking with fintech operators and builders. It's what happens when a fintech passion, Comic-Con energy, and genuine community building come together. In this conversation, we'll explore why they believe the fintech conference circuit needs disruption, how they're creating a different kind of community experience, and what banks, fintechs, and ecosystem builders should focus on to succeed in the industry's next phase. In addition, they provide an inside look into what will make this event different from any the banking industry has ever experienced.

Join me for a conversation with podcast producer Will Sadler about his work on the "Highlands Reimagined" series. Will explains his process of making a show about life in the Highlands and how his work was inspired by the young people featured on the show.We are joined by Fiona Mackenzie, manager of the Strathnaver Museum in Bettyhill, who commissioned the podcast series through their artist residency programme. Fiona shares her insight as a local Highlander, and even answers the age-old question I get asked all the time, when I'm on tour: what do people in the Highlands do for work?This conversation is inspired by the 3-part "Highlands Reimagined" series, which we featured on Wild for Scotland in September 2025. If you haven't done so yet, it makes sense to scroll back and listen to the series first, before returning to my chat with Will and Fiona.Visit our website to find the full show notes, incl. a transcript of our conversation.Help us spread the word about Wild for Scotland! If you hear something you like in this episode, take a screenshot and share what you like about it on your Instagram stories. And tag us @wildforscotland so we can say thank you! Let me help you plan your DREAM TRIP to Scotland! Book a free enquiry call to find out more. Coming to Scotland? Start planning your trip to Scotland with my FREE Trip Planning Checklist. Get it here! Browse my Scotland itineraries for your next trip.Connect with me on Instagram @wildforscotland!Join our email list to never miss an episode.Planning a trip to Scotland? Check out my Scotland blog Watch Me See!

What does it mean to be the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in a world where shared language about faith, salvation, and community seems to be slipping away? In this roundtable episode of the Future Christian Podcast, host Martha Tatarnic is joined by Loren Richmond Jr., Dennis Sanders, and David Emery for a deep conversation on the past, present, and future of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ). Together they wrestle with what “No Creed but Christ” means today—and how this historic movement can renew its theological identity in a rapidly changing culture. This conversation explores: Why “No creed but Christ” was once revolutionary—and what it might mean now How Disciples' emphasis on inclusion and open communion can recover deeper theological grounding The tension between progressive activism and theological clarity The role of preaching, formation, and leadership in shaping discipleship Why local churches—and not denominational structures—are key to renewal Signs of hope and new life emerging in Disciples congregations across North America If you've ever wondered how denominations can stay rooted in the Gospel while adapting to modern realities, this episode offers an honest, hopeful look at faithful innovation and renewal in the mainline church. Dennis Sanders is an ordained Disciples of Christ minister and lead pastor of First Christian Church in St. Paul, Minnesota.  A native of Flint, Michigan and big fan of the Detroit Tigers and Lions, Dennis is also a communications specialist for a Lutheran congregation in the Twin Cities and is the host of the Church and Main podcast, which tries to live out Karl Barth's quote of reading the Bible and the newspaper and interpreting the news through the Bible.  Dennis lives in Minneapolis with his husband Daniel and their cats. David Emery is the Lead Pastor of Harvard Avenue Christian Church in Tulsa, OK. David is a passionate preacher, compassionate pastor, and adept leader whose understanding of the Gospel and vision for the church help our congregation fulfill our mission to live and love like Jesus. David has a reputation for growing churches, reaching new people, and transforming lives in every church he has served throughout his ministry, which includes congregations in Arkansas, Texas, and Kentucky. He holds a Master's of Divinity from Vanderbilt. If you were to ask David what his favorite scripture passage is, he would tell you: “Whatever I'm preaching on this week!” An avid runner and multiple-marathoner, when David isn't on the trail or in the pulpit, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Teresa, and their children and grandchildren.   Mentioned Resources:

Adam interviews Dr. Kyle Balzer and Bob Peters on their recent article in Breaking Defense. They discuss the future of the Sentinel ICBM program, particularly the potential for mobile basing options. They explore the cost implications, strategic effectiveness, and the need for political engagement to advocate for a more robust nuclear deterrent. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adapting to a changing threat environment, particularly with the rise of peer competitors like China, and the necessity of public discourse on nuclear strategy.Kyle Balzer is a Jeane Kirkpatrick Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he specializes in US nuclear strategy and policy. He is currently working on a book project, The Revivalist: James R. Schlesinger and the Rebirth of Cold War U.S. Nuclear Strategy. It examines the origins of diagnostic net assessment and competitive nuclear strategies. His work has been published in Breaking Defense, National Review Online, The Hill, The National Interest, and War on the Rocks. Robert J. Peters is Chief of the Strategic Integration Directorate within the Strategic Trends and Effects Department (STED) at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). He leads efforts to generate actionable insights on counter-WMD and emerging threats, assess agency effectiveness, and foster strategic dialogues with allies through research and exercises.Previously, Peters was a Senior Research Fellow at the National Defense University's Center for the Study of Weapons of Mass Destruction. He also served as Special Assistant to the DASD for Countering WMD at the Office of the Secretary of Defense-Policy, and held roles at Northrop Grumman and the Potomac Institute.He holds an MA in National Security Studies from Georgetown University and a BA in Political Science and History from Miami University. His published work includes articles in Strategic Studies Quarterly, 38 North, and the Nonproliferation Review.Article Link: Forge ahead with the Sentinel ICBM, but consider making it mobile - Breaking DefenseSocials:Follow on Twitter at @NucleCastFollow on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/nuclecastpodcastSubscribe RSS Feed: https://rss.com/podcasts/nuclecast-podcast/Rate: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclecast/id1644921278Email comments and topic/guest suggestions to NucleCast@anwadeter.org

TJ Rylander, general partner at N47 is exploring the next frontier of artificial intelligence: the physical world. Rylander explains how companies like Luminary Cloud are revolutionizing engineering by merging AI with physics, enabling designers to test and refine aircraft or cars virtually in days instead of months. He also shares how Skydio's autonomous drones, once aimed at consumers, are now helping first responders and the military. Along the way, Rylander reflects on his early career at Enron, his time investing for the CIA's In-Q-Tel, and his passion project on the board of one of America's oldest summer camps—where he says lessons in leadership and “doing your fair share of the work” still guide him today. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Imagine a world where your kids learn directly from Einstein in the metaverse. That's the bold vision Mete Al is building at ICB Labs.In this episode, I sat down with Mete live at Token2049 in Singapore to explore how ICB Labs is fusing AI, blockchain, and immersive metaverse experiences to reshape education. From building a global network of university partnerships to creating age-appropriate AI mentors for kids, Mete shares how his team is creating a safe, scalable, and gamified learning environment for the next generation.We talk NFTs with real utility, selling $3M in an ICO, and how AI is quietly training itself through student interactions. This one is full of practical insights, bold predictions, and the clarity of a founder with a big mission: to build the future of learning.Key Learnings + Time Stamps[00:00] Selling $2.5M in NFTs in 3 days — how they did it[01:20] How Mete got into Web3 from real estate & farming[03:50] The shift to AI in education: problems and promise[06:30] Why current AI use in schools is broken — and ICB's fix[08:00] What sets ICB's metaverse apart from Meta & others[10:20] How their AI matches students by age with safe, tailored content[12:00] B2B model: partnering with 9+ universities globally[14:00] The real reason previous metaverse hype failed[16:00] Roadmap: language learning, talent hubs, AI avatars & fashion street[18:30] Their monetization model: KYC, NFTs with utility, and their own token[20:00] What startup founders should focus on: Mete's #1 advice[21:00] The upcoming “Talent Hub” to fund and build student ideas[23:00] Who inspires Mete in Web3: shoutout to 1inch and Sandbox[25:00] ICB Labs' next big milestone: scaling to 400+ staff and beyondConnectMete's Socials:https://www.instagram.com/meteicb/https://www.linkedin.com/in/meteicb/ICB Labs:https://x.com/ICBLabshttps://www.linkedin.com/company/icblabs/https://icblabs.com/ICB Verse:https://x.com/icbversehttps://icbverse.io/ DisclaimerNothing mentioned in this podcast is investment advice and please do your own research. Finally, it would mean a lot if you can leave a review of this podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and share this podcast with a friend.Be a guest on the podcast or contact us – https://www.web3pod.xyz/

  Rafael McMaster Founder Rafael McMaster is an artist who began his career in fashion and has designed clothing lines for Puma and others. His design career led to multiple lines of snowboards, brand and design work for Chris Paul, Matthew McConaughey and MEK denim as well as Webby award nominated websites. In 2016, McMaster hit a wall. Everything on the outside looked perfect— a great family, house, car, and position at a world class creative entertainment agency— but inside Rafael felt spiritually bankrupt. His friend Dave Brubaker told him, "You got to the top of the corporate ladder only to realize your ladder was on the wrong building." Looking for a change and a new vision for the next chapter of his life, Rafael sought to volunteer at his daughter's elementary school and show his art locally.  Having painted for 20 years as a hobby, friends and patrons alike encouraged Rafael to share his art professionally. It was this inspiration that led him to two surprising facts: there was no art class offered in his daughter's elementary school, and there were zero galleries in his hometown of Hermosa Beach. Rafael felt this was his calling—to cultivate art and its awesome power to connect— within his community. Inspired into action, he founded the South Bay Artist Collective, a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose purpose is to cultivate creativity, consciousness, and connection through art. He founded the gallery and creative lab Resin within months, and began a world-class youth creative arts program, weaving in decades of professional creative direction, graphic design, fashion design, and original music into a dynamic and comprehensive arts program. All of these thriving entities are now known as Indivisible Arts.     https://www.indivisiblearts.org/  https://www.rafaelmcmaster.com/  LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-mcmaster-ba573531/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rafaelmcmasterart/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcmaster.peace/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVP8eNYx58zbFZuBSZj6b8w   

On this episode of the Scouting For Growth podcast, Sabine VdL talks to Ulrich (Uli) Homann, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft, and Mark Luquire, EY Global Microsoft Alliance Co-innovation Leader, about how to build an agentic AI enterprise that doesn't just work faster, but works smarter and, most importantly, works for everyone. KEY TAKEAWAYS In the past automation has been very task driven and specific, things had to go in a certain order and you needed to know that order ahead of time. While you need some of that with generative AI, we now have a system that can help do some of that thinking, so if things change in the process along the way, you can deal with it. Now you can rethink what processes even need to exist and focus on the outcome and how to get to it in a new way.  By giving everyone at EY access to generative AI a couple of years ago we learned that people were able to accomplish more more quickly. They used it as a thought-partner, used it as a way to fine tune the product they were working on. Being able to see the evolution of generative AI to now where it's coding applications on its own almost, seeing the new agent capabilities and tools, and being able to take action on its own with very little prompting, it opens the doors to possibilities and what you'll be able to do in the future.  BEST MOMENTS  ‘Focus on where you want to be and then rethink how you're going to get there, that's the real key.' ‘It's not just an assistant to you, providing you with information, it's actually taking on work it's actually thinking through and processing those things as well.' ABOUT THE GUESTS Ulrich (Uli) Homann is a Corporate Vice President & Distinguished Architect in the Cloud + AI business at Microsoft. As part of the senior engineering leadership team, he's responsible for the customer-led innovation efforts across the cloud and enterprise platform portfolio. Previously Homann was the Chief Architect for Microsoft worldwide enterprise services, having formerly played a key role in the business' newly formed Platforms, Technology and Strategy Group. Prior to joining Microsoft in 1991, he worked for several small consulting companies, where he designed and developed distributed systems and has spent most of his career using well-defined applications and architectures to simplify and streamline the development of business applications. Mark Luquire leads the EY organization's global efforts to co-develop innovative solutions with Microsoft and clients, driving growth and accelerating technology strategy. He oversees cross-functional teams spanning sectors and service lines, serving as a key liaison to Microsoft's product and engineering teams. Previously, Mark headed Platform Adoption for EY Global, leading enterprise-wide AI and cloud enablement, including integrating generative AI tools like EYQ, GitHub Copilot and Microsoft Copilot. He also created the first EY Global DevOps Practice and led cloud transformation efforts, making EY a leader in Microsoft Azure usage. Mark's career includes leadership roles in large healthcare enterprises and technology startups, where he established scalable operations, spearheaded digital transformation, and built high-performing global teams. ABOUT THE HOST Sabine is a corporate strategist turned entrepreneur. She is the CEO and Managing Partner of Alchemy Crew a venture lab that accelerates the curation, validation, & commercialization of new tech business models. Sabine is renowned within the insurance sector for building some of the most renowned tech startup accelerators around the world working with over 30 corporate insurers, accelerated over 100 startup ventures. Sabine is the co-editor of the bestseller The INSURTECH Book, a top 50 Women in Tech, a FinTech and InsurTech Influencer, an investor & multi-award winner. Twitter LinkedIn Instagram Facebook  TikTok Email Website This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/