Podcasts about tech strategy

Life sciences are at a critical inflection point, where scientific innovation, regulatory demands, and patient expectations converge with advances in data and artificial intelligence, positioning IT as a central driver of faster and more effective drug discovery and clinical development.This week, Dave and Rob continue with part 2 off the Life Sciences mini-series with Dr. Alex Zhavoronkov founder and CEO of Insilico Medicine to exploring how drug discovery and clinical development can become faster and more effective, and the role of AI in that process.  TLDR00:40 – Introduction01:00 – Hang out: Kill Bill Vol. 1 & 2 03:07 – Dig in: Life Sciences mini-series, Part 2 06:43 – Conversation with Dr Alex Zhavoronkov 42:12 – The future of AI in drug discovery and a new paradigm for pharma GuestDr. Alex Zhavoronkov: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zhavoronkov/ HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Innovation isn't about funding, it's about how organisations are built and led. Progress comes from cutting bureaucracy, empowering mission-led teams, and asking the right questions to unlock bold breakthroughs. This week, Dave, Esmee and Rob are joined again by André Loesekrug-Pietri, Chair and Scientific Director of the Joint European Disruptive Initiative (JEDI, Europe's ARPA) to explore how Europe can turn moonshot ambitions into reality by building the right people, culture and operating models for future-shaping organisations. TLDR00:41 – Introduction01:14 – Hang out: Esmee returns and the missing API has been found!05:14 – Dig in: Staying in step with global innovation12:57 – Conversation with André Loesekrug-Pietri1:02:26 – Roland Garros tennis, and unlocking creative energy GuestAndre Loeskrug-Petri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrepietri/X: @eurojediwww.jedi.foundation HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

This week's podcast is about the recent S-1 IPO filing of SpaceX. It has some pretty good lessons in both AI and tech strategy.You can listen to this podcast here, which has the slides and graphics mentioned. Also available at iTunes and Google Podcasts.Here is the link to the TechMoat Consulting.Here is the link to our Tech Tours.Here are the 3 mentioned steps in Elon's approach (in my opinion). This is an interesting example of a Shaping Strategy.Step 1: Identify a huge TAM. Ideally over $1T. Ideally with a weak incumbent.Step 2: Solve the problem with world-class engineering.Step 3: Run an innovation marathon focused on rapid improvements and cost reductions. Vertical integration and repeatability are key to this.Here is the book by Chris Zook on Repeatability.---------I am a consultant & keynote speaker on how to increase digital growth and strengthen digital AI moats.I am the founder of TechMoat Consulting, a consulting firm specialized in increasing digital growth and strengthening digital AI moats. Get in contact here.I write (a lot) about digital growth and digital AI strategy (3 best selling books, +2.9M followers on LinkedIn). There is a free book and email newsletter below.My Moats and Marathons book series is a framework for building and measuring competitive advantages in digital businesses.This content (articles, podcasts, website info) is not investment, legal or tax advice. The information and opinions from me and any guests may be incorrect. The numbers and information may be wrong. The views expressed may no longer be relevant or accurate. This is not investment advice. Investing is risky. Do your own research.Support the show

Realities Remixed, formerly known as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.Life sciences are at a turning point, where scientific innovation, regulatory pressure, and patient expectations collide with unprecedented advances in data, AI, and digital platforms. IT is no longer a supporting function but a critical driver of how therapies are discovered, developed, scaled, and delivered safely and at speed.This week, Dave and Rob kick off the Life Sciences mini‑series with Thorsten Rall, Global Industry Lead for Life Sciences at Capgemini, to exploring the current state of the sector, the key themes shaping the episodes ahead, and what it takes to drive better patient outcomes. TLDR00:30 – Introduction to Life Sciences and co‑host Thorsten Rall04:37 – Hang‑out: Navigating Waterloo Station07:50 – Deep dive with Thorsten Rall into the Life Sciences landscape28:03 - What are the main challenges in the sector and main themes45:31 – BBQ season is starting HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/with co-host Thorsten Rall: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thorsten-alexander-rall-b232185/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Realities Remixed, formerly known as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.Today's most pressing challenges arise from the collision of rapid technological change with deepening economic inequality, weakening democratic systems, geopolitical instability and accelerating climate pressure, leaving world leaders wrestling with how to govern and solve these deeply interconnected crises.This week, Dave, Esmee and Rob are joined by Dex Hunter-Torricke, Founder & President The Center for Tomorrow to explore how tech can solve world macro issues. TLDR00:33 – Introduction00:40 – Hang out: The Boys on Amazon Prime final episode (spoilers) 06:02 – Dig in: How to solve world macro issues? 07:45 – Conversation with Dex Hunter-Torricke 44:52 – Writing a book and meeting world leaders GuestDex Hunter-Torricke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dextb/https://www.centerfortomorrow.com/ HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Agentic AI can accelerate how enterprises modernize, but introducing the capability to established environments—while keeping them running—becomes architectural Sudoku. As these systems introduce new privileges and autonomous actions, they also demand stronger governance, visibility and control. This episode invites a solution architecture point of view about what it really takes to move from agentic experimentation to trusted, real-world impact.   Featured experts  Ninad Joshi, Senior AI Solution Architect, EMEA, Agentic AI and LLMs, Amazon Web Services Logan Wolfe, Partner, Global Enterprise Transformation, AI and Tech Strategy, Kyndryl

Starting an AI company is all about spotting a real problem and using AI to solve it in a smarter, faster way than what's out there today. It's less about having the perfect idea and more about starting focused, learning fast, and building something people actually want.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Gijs van de Nieuwegiessen and Tijn van Daelen, founders of One Horizon AI, to explore what it really takes to start and build an AI‑native company TLDR00:32 – Introduction00:55 – Hang out: Why Dutch names can be a real tongue-twister02:00 – Dig in: Exploring how an AI-native culture fits with human-to-human interaction13:35 – Deep dive with Gijs van de Nieuwegiessen and Tijn van Daelen1:01:54 – Following AI: Bloopers, reflections, and field hockey with the kids GuestGijs van de Nieuwegiessen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nieuwegiessen/Tijn van Daelen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tijn-van-daelen-495986131/Open source repo: https://github.com/onehorizonai/ink HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Securing AI dominance requires more than just semiconductors; it demands a complete overhaul of how the West manages everything that goes into them, from rare earth minerals to actuators. Enter: Pax Silica. Sarah Guo and Elad Gil sit down with US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg to discuss the launch and expansion of Pax Silica, a 14-country economic security coalition designed to secure the entire AI supply chain. Jacob talks about the creation of a forward-deployed industrial base in the Philippines, where 4,000 acres will be developed into an “economic security zone.” He also compares and contrasts Pax Silica with China's Belt and Road initiative, explains how the US plans to reindustrialize through automation and robotics, and explores how the Trump administration envisions making these policies durable across future presidencies. Plus, we hear why Jacob believes America to be a “global underdog.” Sign up for new podcasts every week. Email feedback to show@no-priors.com Follow us on Twitter: @NoPriorsPod | @Saranormous | @EladGil | @jacobhelberg | @UnderSecE Chapters: 00:00 – Cold Open 00:41 – Jacob Helberg Introduction 01:02 – Pax Silica's Mission 03:51 – Investing in AI Chip Supply Chains 05:43 – Comparing Pax Silica to China's Belt and Road Initiative 12:38 – Pax Silica's Value Proposition 14:38 – US vs. Partnered Manufacturing 19:10 – Rare Earth Mineral Pricing 22:16 – Role of Venture Capital in Pax Silica 24:50 – Near vs. Long-Term Priorities 27:09 – Making AI Policy Durable 28:09 – How Policies Impact Entrepreneurs 31:00 – Trump's Entrepreneurial Administration 33:00 – Why America is a Global Underdog 38:00 – Conclusion

Open Source is giving AI a real boost, making it easier and faster for organisations to build and experiment with new ideas. As adoption grows, these open ecosystems are helping businesses move quicker, stay flexible, and unlock value with more confidence.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Richard Harmon, VP & Global Head of Financial Services at Red Hat to explore how Open Source is shaping AI, from mainframes to Kubernetes, and from regulation and sovereignty to a future of AI agents writing code. TLDR00:25 – Introduction00:52 – Hangout: Deep democracy training and “what instrument are you?”03:19 – Dig in: Open‑source culture and AI, do they complement each other?10:02 – Conversation with Richard Harmon51:12 – Sitting in the chair and trying to keep up with AI GuestRichard Harmon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardlaurenharmon/ HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

The SaaSpocalypse marks the end of traditional CRM with manual data entry, rigid interfaces, and seat‑based software no longer make sense in an AI‑driven world. Success now depends on outcome‑focused plumbing: intelligent orchestration that delivers results, not screens.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Hannah Datz, Americas Vice President of CRM at ServiceNow, to unpack the major announcements from ServiceNow Knowledge 2026 in Las Vegas and explore how AI is accelerating the SaaSpocalypse and driving a fundamental shift in the future of CRM. TLDR00:34 – Introduction 00:54 – Hang out: Happy Password Day and emerging threats 06:46 – Conversation with Hannah Datz 57:20 – From tennis excitement to the best burger ever GuestHannah Datz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahdatz/ HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

AI is only as strong as the data beneath it, and as it moves into the core of the enterprise, fragmented, duplicated, and poorly governed data is no longer hidden in the background, it's amplified, exposed, and impossible to ignore.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Edward Calvesbert, VP Product Management for IBM watsonx AI & Data Platform, to dig into the foundations of enterprise AI, from data silos and the SaaSpocalypse to lakehouse architectures and agent‑driven workflows. TLDR00:17 – Introduction 00:55 – Dig in: The big data unlock for AI14:02 – Conversation with Edward Calvesbert57:58 – Hiking Mount Rainier near Seattle GuestEdward Calvesbert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ecalvesbert/ HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Las Vegas, you're officially on the record during Google Cloud Next 2026. The #RealitiesRemixed podcast team is back at GCN'26, recording live from the Strip, where bright lights collide with big ideas.This week, we're swapping roulette wheels for real talk, hosting live conversations with Google leaders who are redefining what's next across AI‑first enterprise transformation, agentic AI, data, sovereignty, security, and beyond.Expect sharp insights, bold opinions, and future‑shaping conversations, delivered straight from Las Vegas to your headphones. Dave, Rachel, and Rob close out their conversation with Cliff Krimmel, Head of Customer Engineering for Banking at Google Cloud, diving into the changing stack and the rise of the agentic development platform. TLDR00:32 – Day 3 kicks off01:25 – Hang out: Travel-ready tips05:18 – Dig in: The Agentic Data Cloud09:00 – Conversation with Cliff Krimmel32:05 – Closing with burgers & hotdogs GuestCliff Krimmel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ckrimmel/ HostsDave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Rachel Belmonte:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-belmonte-63550358/Rob Kernahan:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Las Vegas, you're officially on the record during Google Cloud Next 2026. The #RealitiesRemixed podcast team is back at GCN'26, recording live from the Strip, where bright lights collide with big ideas.This week, we're swapping roulette wheels for real talk, hosting live conversations with Google leaders who are redefining what's next across AI‑first enterprise transformation, agentic AI, data, sovereignty, security, and beyond.Expect sharp insights, bold opinions, and future‑shaping conversations, delivered straight from Las Vegas to your headphones. Dave, Rachel, and Rob discusse the highlights of Google Cloud Next 2026! TLDR00:24 – Introduction01:14 – Hang out: Progress from Google Cloud Next 2025 to Google Cloud Next 202608:15 – Dig in: Executive overview of this year's key themes31:38 – Closing remarksHostsDave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Rachel Belmonte:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-belmonte-63550358/Rob Kernahan:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Las Vegas, you're officially on the record during Google Cloud Next 2026. The #RealitiesRemixed podcast team is back at GCN'26, recording live from the Strip, where bright lights collide with big ideas.This week, we're swapping roulette wheels for real talk, hosting live conversations with Google leaders who are redefining what's next across AI‑first enterprise transformation, agentic AI, data, sovereignty, security, and beyond.Expect sharp insights, bold opinions, and future‑shaping conversations, delivered straight from Las Vegas to your headphones. Dave, Rachel, and Rob continue their conversation with Gina Fratarcangeli, Managing Director and NA GSI Leader, exploring how partners are redefining their role, from funding models and board‑level conversations to shaping the agentic enterprise blueprint. TLDR00:24 – Day 2 kicks off!00:40 – Hangout: impressions from GCN '26 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center and Dave denting his stuff05:26 – Dig in: What announcements our roving reporter spotted09:54 – Conversation with Gina Fratarcangeli32:41 – Texas brisket on paper BBQ GuestGina Fratarcangeli: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-fratarcangeli/ HostsDave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Rachel Belmonte:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-belmonte-63550358/Rob Kernahan:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Las Vegas, you're officially on the record during Google Cloud Next 2026. The #RealitiesRemixed podcast team is back at GCN'26, recording live from the Strip, where bright lights collide with big ideas.This week, we're swapping roulette wheels for real talk, hosting live conversations with Google leaders who are redefining what's next across AI‑first enterprise transformation, agentic AI, data, sovereignty, security, and beyond.Expect sharp insights, bold opinions, and future‑shaping conversations, delivered straight from Las Vegas to your headphones. Dave, Rachel, and Rob continue their conversation with Khulan Davaajav, Product Marketing Manager, Generative Media Models at Google about the rise of creative AI and how it's redefining human expression in the age of intelligent tools. TLDR00:24 – Day 2 on it's way!00:40 – Hangout: Producer distracted and Rob's red eye03:31 – Highlights: Roving reporter's media related announcements07:16 – Conversation with Khulan Davaajav34:24– Mongolian BBQ GuestKhulan Davaajav: https://www.linkedin.com/in/khulandav/ HostsDave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Rachel Belmonte:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-belmonte-63550358/Rob Kernahan:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Las Vegas, you're officially on the record during Google Cloud Next 2026. The #RealitiesRemixed podcast team is back at GCN'26, recording live from the Strip, where bright lights collide with big ideas.This week, we're swapping roulette wheels for real talk, hosting live conversations with Google leaders who are redefining what's next across AI‑first enterprise transformation, agentic AI, data, sovereignty, security, and beyond.Expect sharp insights, bold opinions, and future‑shaping conversations, delivered straight from Las Vegas to your headphones. Dave, Rachel, and Rob continue the conversation with Dominic Cody, Global Director of Technology, Distributed Cloud, about the Sovereign Edge and reclaiming control in the age of Agentic AI. TLDR00:24 – Guest introduction and this week's key themes00:40 – Hangout: AI on the Expo floor and roving reporter Rachel Belmonte01:24– Dig in: what to expect from Google's announcements05:36– Conversation with Dominic Cody31:28 – Favourite BBQ picks GuestDominic Cody: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominiccody/ HostsDave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Rachel Belmonte:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-belmonte-63550358/Rob Kernahan:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Las Vegas, you're officially on the record during Google Cloud Next 2026.The #RealitiesRemixed podcast team is back at GCN'26, recording live from the Strip, where bright lights collide with big ideas. This week, we're swapping roulette wheels for real talk, hosting live conversations with Google leaders who are redefining what's next across AI‑first enterprise transformation, agentic AI, data, sovereignty, security, and beyond. Expect sharp insights, bold opinions, and future‑shaping conversations, delivered straight from Las Vegas to your headphones.Dave, Rachel, and Rob kick off the event with Mark Steel, Director of Retail Industry, EMEA at Google Cloud, diving into the rise of Agentic Commerce and how AI agents are redefining the relationship between brands, retailers, and consumers.TLDR00:24 – Guest introduction and this week's key themes00:52 – Hangout: new podcast equipment and roving reporter Rachel Belmonte05:52 – Dig in: what to expect from Google's announcements11:41 – Conversation with Mark Steel39:10 – Favourite BBQ picks GuestMark Steel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksteel220/ HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Rachel Belmonte:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-belmonte-63550358/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Realities Remixed, formerly know as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.As AI accelerates the shift from networks to ecosystems, organisations face a growing tension between fast‑moving technology and slower, socially driven organisational change. Success in the “Never Normal” will depend less on intelligence itself and more on leadership qualities, judgement, narrative, trust, and the ability to create space for corporate explorers to build the Day After Tomorrow, not just optimise today.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Peter Hinssen, keynote speaker, author and lecturer and co-founder of nexxworks to explore how leaders navigating through rapid change, focused on transforming uncertainty into opportunities for growth and innovation.. TLDR00:41 – Guest introduction and overview of this week's theme 01:02 – Hangout: Episode 200! 06:25 – Dig in: Deep dive into the pace of change 14:17 – Conversation with Peter Hinssen on adaptive organisations and leadership styles 55:10 – Continuing the conversation about Tech 1:11:20 – Travel to Taiwan, Silicon Valley, and China GuestPeter Hinssen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phinssen/https://www.peterhinssen.com HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

In an era where technological progress reshapes power, security, and prosperity at unprecedented speed, societies face a defining choice: adapt incrementally or reinvent boldly. How can breakthrough and disruptive technologies enable strategic leapfrogging, transforming long‑term ambition into real‑world impact amid a rapidly shifting global landscape.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Andre Loesekrug-Pietri, Chair and the Scientific Director of the Joint European Disruptive Initiative (JEDI, the European ARPA), to explore the ambition behind and what it would take for Europe to stop reacting to technological change and start shaping it. TLDR00:30 – Guest introduction and overview of this week's conversation01:35 – Team Dig in: Is Europe falling behind on competitiveness?13:52 – Conversation with Andre Loesekrug-Pietri1:00:19 – Traveling to Japan with the French president GuestAndre Loeskrug-Petri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrepietri/X: @eurojediwww.jedi.foundationHostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

The commercial real estate (CRE) industry is fervently adopting AI, but a balanced technology strategy is the key to ensuring its success. CRE companies are widely implementing AI solutions and other emerging technologies to bolster investment strategy and create valuable efficiencies in processes. But in this rapid adoption, commercial real estate companies must remember to balance governance and best practices with experimentation and innovation. Finding that balance will ensure a successful technology program, according to Damu Bashyam, EVP and Chief Information and Innovation Officer at Berkadia. Bashyam was recently named a GlobeSt. tech influencer, and he's led the launch of Berkie, Berkadia's proprietary generative AI platform.  Bashyam sat down with us for an episode of GlobeSt.com's podcast to talk about technology adoption, including: -          -How to turn IT into a strategic growth enabler -          - What commercial real estate companies should do to advance technology programs this year -          -Why creating a balanced technology strategy with best practices is crucial to a successful tech adoption

Realities Remixed, formerly known as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.One of the most fundamental challenges in modern computing is the growing hardware–software mismatch. As Moore's Law slows and performance gains no longer come “for free,” software built on Turing‑era, sequential assumptions struggles to keep pace with today's highly parallel, heterogeneous hardware. That disconnect is now a central constraint on innovation.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Peter Richards, advisor and AJ Guillon, founder of YetiWare, to explore why this mismatch persists, what it means for organizations today, and how emerging approaches may redefine the relationship between software and hardware in the years ahead. TLDR00:35 – Introduction01:04 – Hang out: How deep can we go, and what is the history of the compute era?07:00 – Dig in: The power demands of LLMs, data centers, scale, size and potato chips15:35 – Conversation with Peter Richards and AJ Guillon55:31 – Spring cleanup with a chainsaw and cycling GuestPeter Richards: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-richards-3b99688/AJ Guillon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajguillon/ HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

CRE companies are widely implementing AI solutions and other emerging technologies to bolster investment strategy and create valuable efficiencies in processes. But in this rapid adoption, commercial real estate companies must remember to balance governance and best practices with experimentation and innovation. Finding that balance will ensure a successful technology program, according to Damu Bashyam, EVP and Chief Information and Innovation Officer at Berkadia. Bashyam was recently named a GlobeSt. tech influencer, and he's led the launch of Berkie, Berkadia's proprietary generative AI platform. Bashyam sat down with us for an episode of GlobeSt.com's podcast to talk about technology adoption, including: How to turn IT into a strategic growth enabler What commercial real estate companies should do to advance technology programs this year Why creating a balanced technology strategy with best practices is crucial to a successful tech adoption

Realities Remixed, formerly known as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.In a world defined by constant change, leaders must evolve from rigid hierarchies to emotionally intelligent, empowering leadership. By fostering adaptability, continuous learning, distributed leadership, and a culture of curiosity, organisations become better equipped to navigate technological disruptions, such as AI, with resilience and innovation.This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Jana Werner and Phil Le-Brun, Executives in Residence at AWS to explore what it really takes for organisations to thrive in a world of continuous transformation, and why rigid hierarchies, control, and over-designed change programmes so often get in the way.  TLDR00:42 – Guest introduction and overview of this week's theme01:26 – Team dig-in: A new cycle of change is on it's way19:27 – In‑depth conversation with Jana and Phil57:37 – Octopus playlist and case study highlights GuestJana Werner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janawerner1/Phil Le-Brun: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillebrun/https://www.theoctopusorganization.com/ A Guide to Thriving in a World of Continuous Transformation HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Realities Remixed, formerly known as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.Technology and AI are rapidly transforming marketing, challenging old assumptions and shifting the focus toward analytics‑driven precision, smarter segmentation, and multimodal content. As attention becomes harder to capture and creative workflows evolve, the real advantage lies in adapting for an AI‑first environment, especially by rethinking overlooked segments like the mid‑market and being far more specific in strategy and execution. This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Carlos Corredor, founder and CEO of Condor, to discuss the difference between value metrics and vanity metrics in modern marketing and why many organisations still struggle to connect marketing activity to real business results. TLDR00:32 – Introduction00:59 – Hang out: Staying healthy06:10 – Dig in: The valuable to measure with metrics17:52 – Conversation with Carlos Corredor47:15 – Looking ahead to the World Cup football GuestCarlos Corredor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlos-corredor-condor/HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

In "Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap with JBF's Brad Forester", Joe Lynch and Brad Forester, Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, discuss the critical need for a strategic roadmap to ensure logistics technology delivers real ROI rather than becoming a costly mistake. About Brad Forester Brad Forester is the Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience in transportation strategy, logistics technology, and supply chain transformation. A recognized industry expert, Brad has advised Fortune 500 companies and high-growth brands on complex global transportation initiatives, from network design and technology selection to implementation and value realization. His background spans senior roles in consulting, software, and shipper operations, giving him a uniquely balanced perspective on strategy and execution. Brad is a frequent industry speaker and thought leader on TMS, visibility, and logistics innovation.  About JBF Consulting JBF Consulting is a leading logistics strategy advisory and technology integration firm that partners with shippers to transform their logistics and supply chain execution operations. We empower clients to achieve operational efficiency and scalable, sustainable value through strategy development, roadmap orchestration, unbiased technology selection, expert implementation, data-driven insights, and ongoing managed services. For over two decades, our client-centric approach and alliances with best-of-breed solution providers have ensured that every strategy and solution we deliver drives measurable impact, long-term success, and customer satisfaction.  Key Takeaways: Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap In "Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap with JBF's Brad Forester", Joe Lynch and Brad Forester, Founder and Managing Partner of JBF Consulting, discuss the critical need for a strategic roadmap to ensure logistics technology delivers real ROI rather than becoming a costly mistake. The Trap is Set Early: Implementation failures (going over budget or missing ROI) are usually symptoms of a missing strategy months prior, rather than errors made during the setup itself. Strategy as Insurance: Investing just 1% to 2% of your budget in a strategic assessment acts as an insurance policy, potentially mitigating up to 80% of common implementation risks. "Slow is Steady, Steady is Fast": Rushing to execute without "future-casting" (planning for growth or acquisitions 5–10 years out) leads to the "$10 million mistake"—having to rip out and replace a system that no longer fits. Create a Shipper Profile: Use a "matchmaking" approach to tech. A tool that works for a retail giant might fail for a bulk chemical shipper; you must find the specific vendor that matches your unique mode mix. The Hybrid Tech Trend: Large shippers are increasingly owning the software and data while outsourcing physical operations, allowing them to switch 3PLs without losing their historical data or visibility. Beware of Shiny Objects: Avoid "AI for AI's sake." Don't buy a hammer and then go looking for a nail; ensure any new tech solves a defined problem statement rather than just chasing industry hype. Phase Two is a Myth: Brad warns that "Phase Two never comes." If you don't build the necessary capabilities into the initial launch, the project often stalls at 75% completion, and the promised ROI is never realized. Learn More About Freight Tech Strategy: Avoiding the Implementation Trap Brad Forester | LinkedIn JBF Consulting | LinkedIn JBF Consulting Freight Tech Trends with Mike Mulqueen FreightTech for Fortune 500 Shippers with Brad Forester and Mike Mulqueen FreightTech Reality Check with Brad Forester The Logistics of Logistics Podcast If you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive review, subscribe, and share it with your friends and colleagues. The Logistics of Logistics Podcast: Google, Apple, Castbox, Spotify, Stitcher, PlayerFM, Tunein, Podbean, Owltail, Libsyn, Overcast Check out The Logistics of Logistics on Youtube

Realities Remixed, formerly know as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.After years of remote‑first work built on swift trust, companies are asking a harder question: what does a organization really stand for when people rarely show up together? As AI accelerates change, leaders are rethinking presence, team design, and collaboration to fuel trust, innovation, and growth. This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Dr. Tim Currie, disruptor, author, innovator, and advisor, to examine transformation versus trust, the role of AI, and whether organisations can truly build culture without deeper human connection. TLDR00:42– Introduction01:10 –  Hang out: New film releases07:17 – Dig in: The trust gap in remote work17:57 – Conversation with Dr. Tim Currie54:07 – The Wizard of Oz at the Sphere in Las Vegas and staying connected GuestDr. Tim Currie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tim-currie-37756a/Book Swift Trust: https://swifttrustbook.com/HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

At a time when "agents" and AI dominate every conversation, it is easy to forget that the ultimate channel is the consumer. In this RETHINK Retail episode, host DeAnn Campbell, Head of Retail Strategy at AAG Consulting and Scott Wueschinski, AVP of Retail Applied Advisory at Genpact, cut through the noise to explain why the human experience is the only real competitive advantage left. They dive into the friction points technology alone cannot fix, from punitive return fees to the "magic" of a store associate who actually knows their craft. Strategic Takeaways: - Cooperative Returns: Moving away from punitive fees by giving customers better tools to get the fit right the first time. - Associate-First Design: Shifting toward frontline tools that employees actually want to use, rather than systems they are penalized for ignoring. - The Data Reality: Why AI agents won't save a business if the foundational data is "crap in, crap out". - The Multiplier Effect: How fixing low-hanging fruit in the store, like removing outdated kiosks, at the same time you deploy AI drives immediate results. Stop chasing "shelfware." Tune in to learn how to balance high-tech agents with the human touch that builds true brand stickiness.

Realities Remixed, formerly know as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry and tech.Business messaging is transforming customer engagement by enabling brands to move conversations into familiar, always‑on messaging platforms. The result for customers is greater convenience, quicker resolutions, and more meaningful, personalized interactions. This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by Kathleen Tandy, Global Director and Head of Business Messaging Marketing and WhatsApp for Business at Meta , to explore how companies are using messaging platforms to engage customers, what customers expect from these experiences, and the challenges of scaling messaging in tech.TLDR00:35 – Introduction01:00 –  Hang out: The new Remarkable05:25 – Dig in: Using messaging to enhance customer experiences20:49 – Conversation with Kathleen Tandy55:26 – The passion for college football and championship weekend!GuestKathleen Tandy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kptandy/HostsDave Chapman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ProductionMarcel van der Burg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Realities Remixed, formerly know as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, industry, and tech. Energy transportation is a deeply local business, safely delivering gas and electricity, more and more from renewable sources, directly to the communities it serves. Technology and AI help make that possible by strengthening safety, bringing companies closer to customers, and enabling teams to build the future together. This week, Dave, Esmee, and Rob are joined by John Koerwer, CIO of UGI Corporation, to explore explore why “the business” and tech still struggle to speak the same language, nd what helps close the gap.TLDR00:35 – Introduction01:17 – Hang out: new toys and coffee07:55 – Dig in: the business - tech divide21:07 – Conversation with John Koerwer59:40 – The amazing AI technology in The Sphere's version of The Wizard of OzGuestJohn Koerwer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-koerwer-46102127/HostsDave Chapman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ProductionMarcel van der Burg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Get a FREE COPY of Jeff Dudan's book DISCERNMENT here: https://podcast.homefrontbrands.com/en-us/discernment  Technology can accelerate your franchise system. Or quietly break it. In this Franchise Friday segment, I sit down with Jaffrey Ali from FranConnect to answer one of the most important questions facing franchisors today: Should you build your own technology — or buy it? We break down: Why “finite resources” matter more than you think The hidden risk of AI shortcuts and “vibe coding” The real ROI framework for build vs. buy decisions Why security, certifications, and compliance can't be ignored How AI is crushing development costs — but raising operational uncertainty Why single-modality “Frankenstein stacks” are disappearing What serious SaaS companies are doing with AI (and why they're not upcharging for it) What the next 1–3 years look like in franchising Here's the reality: AI is lowering the cost of building software. It's also increasing complexity, usage-based cost exposure, and security risk. The brands that win won't be the ones chasing shiny objects. They'll be the ones asking: What business are we truly in? F ranchising is accelerating. Entrepreneurship is rising. AI is putting better data into the hands of buyers. The future belongs to well-run, relationship-driven franchise brands with high engagement and real unit-level economics. If you're a franchisor — or thinking about becoming one — this conversation matters.  Learn more about building a smarter franchise system: https://homefrontbrands.com  Get a FREE COPY of Jeff Dudan's book DISCERNMENT here: https://podcast.homefrontbrands.com/en-us/discernment Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get a FREE COPY of Jeff Dudan's book DISCERNMENT here: https://podcast.homefrontbrands.com/en-us/discernment  Technology can accelerate your franchise system. Or quietly break it. In this Franchise Friday segment, I sit down with Jaffrey Ali from FranConnect to answer one of the most important questions facing franchisors today: Should you build your own technology — or buy it? We break down: Why “finite resources” matter more than you think The hidden risk of AI shortcuts and “vibe coding” The real ROI framework for build vs. buy decisions Why security, certifications, and compliance can't be ignored How AI is crushing development costs — but raising operational uncertainty Why single-modality “Frankenstein stacks” are disappearing What serious SaaS companies are doing with AI (and why they're not upcharging for it) What the next 1–3 years look like in franchising Here's the reality: AI is lowering the cost of building software. It's also increasing complexity, usage-based cost exposure, and security risk. The brands that win won't be the ones chasing shiny objects. They'll be the ones asking: What business are we truly in? F ranchising is accelerating. Entrepreneurship is rising. AI is putting better data into the hands of buyers. The future belongs to well-run, relationship-driven franchise brands with high engagement and real unit-level economics. If you're a franchisor — or thinking about becoming one — this conversation matters.  Learn more about building a smarter franchise system: https://homefrontbrands.com  Get a FREE COPY of Jeff Dudan's book DISCERNMENT here: https://podcast.homefrontbrands.com/en-us/discernment Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

theion is developing lithium-sulfur battery technology targeting 500 watt hours per kilogram in their first commercial product—nearly double today's lithium-ion cells at 270-300 Wh/kg—with an ultimate roadmap to 1,000 Wh/kg. By replacing nickel-manganese-cobalt cathodes with crystalline sulfur and graphite anodes with lithium metal, theion aims to deliver three times the energy density at one-third the cost and CO2 footprint of current batteries. In this episode of BUILDERS, we sat down with Dr. Ulrich Ehmes, CEO of theion, to discuss how a production-focused CEO is navigating the journey from TRL 3-4 to pilot line, why they're targeting electric aviation first, and how a 12-year battery industry veteran evaluates what actually constitutes a materials breakthrough. Topics Discussed: Why sulfur cathodes and lithium metal anodes enable the performance jump beyond lithium-ion The critical importance of monoclinic gamma crystalline structure for cycle life  Navigating the transition from coin cells to pouch cells to industrialization  Strategic decision-making on initial market entry for deep tech hardware  Why process innovation in mixing and coating is required to unlock sulfur's full potential  Building a China-independent supply chain using oil refining waste  The 3-year development reality driven by cycling test requirements GTM Lessons For B2B Founders: Price your technology against value creation, not cost savings alone: Ulrich's market strategy centers on "markets which will pay a lot of money for super lightweight batteries"—specifically aviation applications where weight reduction directly enables business model viability. For eVTOLs, the constraint isn't battery cost but energy density; current batteries make many routes economically impossible. This is fundamentally different from cost-driven markets like consumer EVs where incremental weight savings have marginal value. Deep tech founders should map which customer segments face hard physical constraints that only your technology solves versus those seeking incremental optimization. The former will pay 3-5x premiums; the latter will demand cost parity from day one. Match CEO background to the company's primary risk: Ulrich led Leica's 600-person Portugal production facility for a decade before entering batteries, and he frames his value as "I'm a production guy...for me it's very important not to produce only one battery cell in a lab, but millions of cells in highest quality." For a battery company at TRL 3-4 moving toward industrialization, the existential risk isn't the science—it's whether you can manufacture at quality and yield. Many deep tech companies fail because PhD founders remain CEOs through manufacturing scale-up. Ulrich's hire signals that theion's board correctly diagnosed their de-risking sequence. Founders should brutally assess what will kill the company in the next 24 months and ensure the CEO's pattern recognition matches that failure mode. Seek investors where your technology is infrastructure for their thesis: theion's primary investor is "heavily invested in eVTOLs," making theion's battery technology directly relevant to multiple portfolio companies facing the same energy density constraint. This creates structural alignment on timeline expectations—eVTOL companies won't reach commercial scale before 2027-2028 anyway, matching theion's development cycle. The investor understands that battery development "takes time because always when you change a parameter, you have to cycle again to test the cells." This is radically different from a generalist VC expecting SaaS-like iteration speeds. Hardware founders should explicitly map how their technology unblocks other portfolio companies and use this to negotiate patient capital terms and strategic customer introductions. Use competitive landscape size as legitimacy signal, not differentiation: When pressed on disrupting incumbents, Ulrich immediately countered: "We are not the only company working on sulfur and this is good...there are 28 other companies out there." He then differentiated on "monoclinic gamma crystalline structure" validated by Drexel University achieving 4,000+ cycles. This is sophisticated category positioning: the 28 competitors validate that lithium-sulfur is a credible next-generation technology, while the specific crystalline approach provides technical differentiation for those who understand the chemistry. Founders should resist the urge to claim they're the only ones solving a problem in nascent categories—it raises "why hasn't anyone else tried this?" concerns. Instead, position within an emerging category and differentiate on technical approach. Communicate realistic timelines as competence signaling, not weakness: Ulrich states plainly that commercial availability is "at least the next three years" and frames this as doing "first things first and first things right." For sophisticated buyers in aviation and aerospace, compressed timelines signal naivety about certification requirements, manufacturing validation, and qualification testing. A battery company claiming 12-month commercialization would lose credibility with Boeing or Joby Aviation procurement teams who understand the actual development cycles. Deep tech founders should recognize that customer segments accustomed to long development cycles (aerospace, automotive, medical devices) interpret realistic timelines as domain expertise, while consumer/software buyers may interpret them as lack of urgency. Match timeline communication to buyer sophistication. // Sponsors: Front Lines — We help B2B tech companies launch, manage, and grow podcasts that drive demand, awareness, and thought leadership. www.FrontLines.io The Global Talent Co. — We help tech startups find, vet, hire, pay, and retain amazing marketing talent that costs 50-70% less than the US & Europe. www.GlobalTalent.co // Don't Miss: New Podcast Series — How I Hire Senior GTM leaders share the tactical hiring frameworks they use to build winning revenue teams. Hosted by Andy Mowat, who scaled 4 unicorns from $10M to $100M+ ARR and launched Whispered to help executives find their next role. Subscribe here: https://open.spotify.com/show/53yCHlPfLSMFimtv0riPyM

Realities Remixed, formerly know as Cloud Realities, launches a new season exploring the intersection of people, culture, technology, and society. Hosts Dave Chapman, Esmee van de Giessen, and Rob Kernahan unpack 2026's defining trends, from AI and sovereignty to adaptability and automation, offering fresh insight, candid reflections, and forward‑looking conversations shaping the year ahead. TLDR00:20 – Introduction of Realities Remixed02:30 – Why the show evolved?04:50 – Dig in with the team: Predictions for 202606:40 – Macro trends13:00 – Sovereignty 17:40 – Agentic AI22:17 – Human–AI interaction26:06 – Cloud trends30:42 – AI scaling, domain‑specific models35:03 – Adoption lag39:34 – Physical AI43:47 – Quantum computing48:21 – Hardware acceleration50:30 – Cybersecurity52:38 – Season outlook HostsDave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/Esmee van de Giessen:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmeevandegiessen/Rob Kernahan:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kernahan/ProductionMarcel van der Burg:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcel-vd-burg/Dave Chapman:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chapmandr/ SoundBen Corbett:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-corbett-3b6a11135/Louis Corbett:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-corbett-087250264/ 'Realities Remixed' is an original podcast from Capgemini

Mike joins Emily Kilcrease, senior fellow and director of the Energy, Economics, and Security Program at the Center for a New American Security, to unpack how U.S. national security strategy is shaping technology competition with China. They explore why Washington has rolled back certain tariffs and technology export restrictions, how allies and partners are responding to shifting U.S. trade policies, and whether the United States is still on track to win the U.S.-China tech race.

This week, Brian Gracely joins to dissect strategic choices made by Broadcom, Docker, Netflix and Intel. Plus: The AI Bifurcation—are models commodities or product pillars? Rundown Licensing in VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0 (https://blogs.vmware.com/cloud-foundation/2025/06/24/licensing-in-vmware-cloud-foundation-9-0/) Hardened Images for Everyone (https://www.docker.com/blog/docker-hardened-images-for-every-developer/) Introducing Chainguard EmeritOSS (https://www.chainguard.dev/unchained/introducing-chainguard-emeritoss) Netflix to Acquire Warner Bros. (https://about.netflix.com/en/news/netflix-to-acquire-warner-bros) Anthropic reportedly preparing for one of the largest IPOs (https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/03/anthropic-claude-reportedly-preparing-ipo-race-openai-chatgpt-ft-wilson-sonsini-goodrich-rosati.html) Conferences cfgmgmtcamp 2026 (https://cfgmgmtcamp.org/ghent2026/), February 2nd to 4th, Ghent, BE. Coté speaking and doing live SDI (https://www.softwaredefinedinterviews.com) with John Willis. DevOpsDayLA at SCALE23x (https://www.socallinuxexpo.org/scale/23x), March 6th, Pasadena, CA Use code: DEVOP for 50% off. Devnexus 2026 (https://devnexus.com), March 4th to 6th, Atlanta, GA. Whole bunch of VMUGs, mostly in the US. The CFPs are open (https://app.sessionboard.com/submit/vmug-call-for-content-2026/ae1c7013-8b85-427c-9c21-7d35f8701bbe?utm_campaign=5766542-VMUG%20Voice&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz-_YREN7dr6p3KSQPYkFSN5K85A-pIVYZ03ZhKZOV0O3t3h0XHdDHethhx5O8gBFguyT5mZ3n3q-ZnPKvjllFXYfWV3thg&_hsmi=393690000&utm_content=393685389&utm_source=hs_email), go speak at them! Coté speaking in Amsterdam. Amsterdam (March 17-19, 2026), Minneapolis (April 7-9, 2026), Toronto (May 12-14, 2026), Dallas (June 9-11, 2026), Orlando (October 20-22, 2026) SDT News & Community Join our Slack community (https://softwaredefinedtalk.slack.com/join/shared_invite/zt-1hn55iv5d-UTfN7mVX1D9D5ExRt3ZJYQ#/shared-invite/email) Email the show: questions@softwaredefinedtalk.com (mailto:questions@softwaredefinedtalk.com) Free stickers: Email your address to stickers@softwaredefinedtalk.com (mailto:stickers@softwaredefinedtalk.com) Follow us on social media: Twitter (https://twitter.com/softwaredeftalk), Threads (https://www.threads.net/@softwaredefinedtalk), Mastodon (https://hachyderm.io/@softwaredefinedtalk), LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/software-defined-talk/), BlueSky (https://bsky.app/profile/softwaredefinedtalk.com) Watch us on: Twitch (https://www.twitch.tv/sdtpodcast), YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCi3OJPV6h9tp-hbsGBLGsDQ/featured), Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/softwaredefinedtalk/), TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@softwaredefinedtalk) Book offer: Use code SDT for $20 off "Digital WTF" by Coté (https://leanpub.com/digitalwtf/c/sdt) Sponsor the show (https://www.softwaredefinedtalk.com/ads): ads@softwaredefinedtalk.com (mailto:ads@softwaredefinedtalk.com) Photo Credits Header (https://unsplash.com/photos/university-of-alabama-football-game-tuscaloosa-alabama-YcVe7gL9A0s) Special Guest: Brian Gracely.

Luxury hospitality isn't just about marble lobbies anymore — it's about creating seamless, hyper-personalized experiences powered by the right technology. I spoke with Matt Schwartz, Chief Technology Officer at Sage Hospitality, about how his team is merging design, comfort, and digital expectations to deliver the kind of experience guests now expect at home — from streaming and smart controls to ultra-fast connectivity. We break it all down on #NoVacancyNews, including why bandwidth is the unsung hero of guest satisfaction, how AI and facial recognition could reshape the arrival experience, and why training is as critical as technology when it comes to creating genuine hospitality.

Today we're diving into something that's absolutely critical for brands right now. We're talking about how to build a brand that doesn't just survive, but absolutely thrives in this new AI era.  And I'm not talking about just using ChatGPT to write your Instagram captions faster – though that's part of it. I'm talking about a fundamental shift in how premium brands need to think about visibility, authority, and customer connection in 2025 and beyond. Here's the thing: The rules have changed. Completely. The way people discover brands, the way they research products, the way they make purchase decisions – it's all being disrupted by AI right now. And if you're not adapting, you're essentially becoming invisible. But here's the exciting part – and this is what we're unpacking today – premium brands with small teams actually have a massive advantage right now. We can move faster, we can be more authentic, and we can build deeper connections than the big corporate behemoths trying to figure all this out. The framework I'm sharing today is deceptively simple: Show up like a media company, but deliver like a tech company. And because I know you're running on the smell of an oily rag – as we say here in Australia – I'm going to show you exactly how to do this efficiently, without needing a six-figure budget or a team of 20 content creators.   Links mentioned in this episode: If you'd like help to achieve your goals, I invite you to have a chat to find out how we can make that happen together HERE By booking a Free Growth Strategy https://productpreneurmarketing.com/lets-talk   Other Ways To Enjoy This Episode: Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Youtube  

This episode of The Big Bid Theory dives deep into what is possible in public procurement when the right people and technology come together.Joining us are two standout leaders from the City of Houston's Strategic Procurement Division — Yesenia Chuca and Perla Arredondo — who were pivotal in executing a full-scale e-procurement implementation in just 45 days. Yesenia shares how building the right team made the difference, while Perla reveals how their focus on the supplier experience helped grow Houston's supplier database from 4,000 to over 10,000 vendors in five months.We talk NIGP Forum 2025, supplier engagement, digital transformation in government, rapid implementation timelines, and lessons for any agency ready to modernize procurement.Also: you won't want to miss this week's “Crazy Bid You Can Win”. Let's just say it involves rain barrels AND websites.Interview on YouTubePerla Arredondo: With three years of experience in public procurement, Perla Arredondo has played a key role in implementing new procurement systems across the City of Houston. As a Training Administrator, she has been instrumental in developing and delivering training to ensure staff are equipped to navigate these evolving systems. Perla has contributed to efforts to modernize procurement processes, driving forward efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. She has helped integrate technology that improves the overall effectiveness of public purchasing for the City of Houston and its suppliers. Outside of work, she loves to travel and takes every opportunity to enjoy quick weekend trips, exploring new places and cultures.Yesenia Chuca: Yesenia Chuca is a dynamic leader in modern government procurement, serving as Deputy Assistant Director with the City of Houston's Strategic Procurement Division. With over 16 years of experience in public-sector procurement, she specializes in professional services and technology-related acquisitions, driving efficiency and transparency in the City's processes. Yesenia is committed to advancing procurement strategies that streamline operations and foster innovation. Her expertise and dedication position her at the forefront of transforming government purchasing for the future.

The U.S.–China chip rivalry is heating up. Beijing has launched two new probes—one on analog chip dumping, the other on U.S. trade restrictions. What's behind China's move? And how could they reshape China's chip market, the trajectory of the chip conflict, or even the broader tech rivalry between the two countries?Host TU Yun joins Yan Liang, Professor of Economics, Willamette University, Dr. Zhou Mi, Deputy Director, Institute of American and Oceania Study, Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, and Warwick Powell, Adjunct Professor, Queensland University of Technology for a close look.

CTO Series: Toni Sallanmaa on Scaling Engineering Teams and Aligning Tech with Business Goals In this BONUS episode, we explore the journey of scaling technology teams and maintaining alignment between engineering and business objectives with Toni Sallanmaa, CTO at Funidata. Toni shares invaluable insights from leading the development of Sisu, a cutting-edge student information system serving over 100,000 Finnish university users, and discusses practical strategies for growing engineering organizations while preserving company culture. The Genesis of Leadership in Technology "I understood what I was really responsible for. I'm interested in the business we are running—the business adds meaning to the work." Toni's approach to technology leadership was fundamentally shaped by a pivotal moment early in his career when he first gained influence over system development and technology choices. After working with large-scale systems for 20 years, this moment of responsibility revelation transformed his perspective from purely technical to business-focused. He emphasizes that infinite curiosity drives success in tech businesses, and understanding the business context gives meaningful purpose to technical work. Bridging the Gap Between Tech and Product "Don't separate Tech from Product. We established a common language between product and technology people." One of Toni's most significant insights centers on eliminating the traditional divide between technology and product teams. As Funidata grew from a small startup to a 70-person organization, the challenges of maintaining alignment became apparent. Their solution involved several key practices: Teaching developers the language of the product domain  Banning confusing technical terms that create communication barriers Workshopping product language to ensure clarity Keeping entity names deliberately vague until true understanding emerges This approach draws heavily from Domain Driven Design principles, creating a unified vocabulary that enables seamless collaboration. Collaborative Planning and Transparency "We use transparency as a collaboration technique. Every team sees what's being proposed as a goal for the next quarter." Funidata implements a unique "marketplace of goals" approach during their quarterly big room planning sessions. Rather than using scaled agile frameworks, they focus on transparency and collaborative goal-setting. Teams present their high-level quarterly plans to each other, creating visibility across the organization. Product owners are embedded within teams, keeping communication distances short and ensuring alignment between technical execution and business objectives. Future-Forward Roadmapping "We talk about the higher level ideas regularly, but let them bubble up from the community. We hold internal hackathons." Toni's approach to roadmapping balances strategic vision with grassroots innovation. They maintain an internal technology roadmap that addresses emerging trends like AI, while allowing ideas to organically emerge from the engineering community. Internal hackathons serve as catalysts for innovation, providing structured opportunities for teams to explore new technologies and approaches that might inform future roadmap decisions. Scaling Challenges and Cultural Preservation "The biggest challenge is not technology, it was the rapid scaling of technology teams. When you scale up, keep the culture in mind." The most significant challenge Toni faced wasn't technical but organizational—rapidly scaling teams while preserving company culture. Growing from 10 to 50 people required evolving processes, from establishing internal forums for architectural discussions to implementing continuous integration flows. The key was identifying pain points proactively and maintaining open discussions with team members throughout the scaling process. Strengthening company culture became essential to successful growth. AI's Impact on Software Development "Productivity is on the rise. We see opportunities like generating test data, but we have strict requirements for cybersecurity, which puts pressure on code quality." Toni views AI's impact on software development with cautious optimism. While productivity gains are evident, particularly in areas like test data generation, the stringent cybersecurity requirements in their domain mean that AI hasn't yet significantly improved code quality where it matters most. The technology shows promise, but implementation must be carefully considered within the context of security and quality requirements. Measuring Engineering Success "We use DORA and SPACE framework. We measure how much of our work is KTLO (Keep The Lights On) and how much is elective development." Funidata employs both DORA and SPACE frameworks to measure engineering organization success. From SPACE, they particularly focus on measuring software team wellbeing, while also tracking the balance between "Keep The Lights On" (KTLO) work and elective development. Using JIRA connected to a data warehouse, they mine extensive data that serves both leadership decision-making and team improvement efforts, ensuring metrics benefit everyone in the organization. Influential Leadership Resources "The organizational books have been more influential to me than purely technical ones." Toni emphasizes that organizational leadership books have shaped his CTO approach more than technical resources. Two key influences stand out: "Team Topologies" for understanding how to structure and scale engineering teams effectively, and "Radical Candor" for building authentic, productive relationships within the organization. You can find a BONUS episode on Team Topologies with the authors Matthew Skeltton and Manuel Pais. About Toni Sallanmaa Toni leads technology and engineering at Funidata, developing Sisu—a cutting-edge student information system serving over 100,000 Finnish university users. Passionate about agile methodologies, system architecture, and software engineering, Toni specializes in technology management, software lifecycle, OOP, and relational databases to deliver innovative, scalable solutions in higher education tech. You can connect with Toni Sallanmaa on LinkedIn.

Send us a textDive into the rapidly evolving world of AI with Adrian Swinscoe as we wrap up our three-part series on how to keep AI from becoming just another buzzword. This episode unpacks the flood of AI tools hitting the market, the challenge of maintaining a human touch in customer experience, and strategies to avoid the dreaded “tech for tech's sake” trap. Adrian shares a fresh perspective on leveraging AI for operational efficiency—not by cutting costs but by unlocking capacity to deepen customer relationships. We also touch on often-overlooked ethical considerations, from AI's environmental impact to the human labor hidden behind the scenes.In this episode of the customer success playbook, Adrian Swinscoe expertly navigates the AI hype cycle, reminding us that technology should never lead the charge without a clear strategy rooted in customer experience goals. Adrian advocates flipping the traditional tech-first approach on its head—start with the experience you want to create, then work backward to the data and technology needed. This disciplined mindset steers organizations away from buying shiny tools with no purpose and towards a deliberate, ROI-driven deployment of AI.What stands out is Adrian's practical example of a forward-thinking e-commerce company that uses AI automation to free their agents from mundane inquiries. Instead of using this newfound efficiency to reduce headcount, they activate new channels to deepen direct customer interactions. This mindset flips the usual script focused on cost-cutting, proving that AI can be a genuine enabler of enriched customer success rather than a simple productivity hack.The episode also ventures into the less glamorous but crucial topics rarely discussed: the hefty energy consumption demanded by AI's generative models and the ethical conundrum surrounding low-paid labor involved in data annotation. These insights serve as an important reminder that innovation must marry responsibility, aligning with broader business values and the global climate imperative.For customer success leaders, the takeaways are clear: educating teams on the art of the possible with AI, defining an experience-first strategy, and thoughtfully measuring impact are essential steps to harness AI's power effectively. Above all, there's a call to maintain the human element—after all, let's not trade genuine connection for robotic efficiency. Now you can interact with us directly by leaving a voice message at https://www.speakpipe.com/CustomerSuccessPlaybookPlease Like, Comment, Share and Subscribe. You can also find the CS Playbook Podcast:YouTube - @CustomerSuccessPlaybookPodcastTwitter - @CS_PlaybookYou can find Kevin at:Metzgerbusiness.com - Kevin's person web siteKevin Metzger on Linked In.You can find Roman at:Roman Trebon on Linked In.

Hosted by David Cowen | Presented by Steno Live from the floor at ILTACON 2025, in this rich, retrospective conversation, Phil Bryce, longtime legal Knowledge Management leader and strategist - traces the evolution of legal tech from the dawn of email to today's GenAI disruption. But this episode is about more than just tech. Phil shares hard-earned lessons on connection, courage, and how relationships made 20 years ago still shape his career today. If you're navigating what's next or building your place in this industry, Phil's story is a masterclass in going far together. Key Topics Covered: What GenAI means now and how it echoes the early days of legal tech How Knowledge Management, strategy, and innovation emerged from organized chaos The power of connection: how one lunch sparked a 20-year peer network Why today's best opportunities aren't in job descriptions, you create them “Follow the joy”: Phil's framework for building a career worth having How courage and curiosity created the career he didn't know he was building The future of legal tech leadership and why thinking like a managing partner matters This Episode is presented by Steno: Smarter transcripts. Faster delivery. Built for modern legal teams.

Nate Sundheimer—Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and Director of Digital & Tech Strategy at Wipfli—joins CSRHA to demystify AI for rural healthcare leaders. With deep roots in healthcare innovation and a mission to make tech practical, Nate delivers a sharp, no-fluff session on how AI can empower rural providers to do more with less.This episode dives into real-world, nonclinical AI applications that reduce burnout, streamline operations, and improve patient outcomes—without breaking the bank or disrupting workflows. Nate walks through actionable frameworks for evaluating vendors, calculating ROI, and navigating implementation. Plus, he shares insights from Wipfli's national survey of rural execs, showing how AI is already at work behind the scenes—even if providers don't realize it. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the noise or unsure how to vet “game-changing” tech, this is your roadmap.What You'll Learn From This Episode:Nate Sundheimer's Background and CredentialsIntroduction to AI in Rural HealthcareUnderstanding AI and Its ApplicationsCurrent State and Challenges in Rural HealthcareAI Solutions and Implementation StrategiesNonclinical AI and Technology ApplicationsImplementation Challenges and Success MetricsKey Takeaways and Final ThoughtsConnect with Nate Sundheimer: LinkedIn ResourcesWipfli – Healthcare Advisory & Technology Services, Microsoft Nuance DAX (Dragon Ambient eXperience),Abridge – AI Medical DocumentationSuki – AI for Clinical Documentation (FQHC focused)OpenLoop – Virtual Staffing for HealthcareThe CSRHA has been a go-to resource for rural healthcare and community leaders since 1995. The CSRHA brings an accumulation of actionable insights to the next generation of rural healthcare leaders. For more behind the scenes of this podcast follow @CSRHApodcast on Twitter or @csrha.advocate on Facebook.If you enjoy This Is Rural Health, we could use your support! Please consider leaving a 5-star rating and review, and share it with someone who needs to hear this!Learn more about the CSRHA at csrha.org.

Hila Lauterbach, Founder of 10x GTM, and Klue Advisor. 10x GTM is a company partnering with high-growth B2B SaaS companies to accelerate revenue through strategic GTM and product marketing excellence. In this episode, KJ Hila discuss the rise of data-driven and AI-powered investment models—and why they’re not enough on their own. They also explore the most common go-to-market mistakes: lack of alignment, unclear audience, and missing foundational strategy. Key Takeaways: [5:47] Hila’s Origin Story & Overcoming Rejection [13:45] The Broken Investment Model [16:39] Building a Repeatable Go-to-Market Engine [26:50] The Future of SaaS & AI’s Impact Quote of the Show (27:00): “Every time the door was closed, I built a new door. You have to keep iterating, keep believing, and keep working hard towards your goals.” – Hila Lauterbach Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Hila Lauterbach: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilalauterbachmarketing Company Websites: 10XGTM.com and https://klue.com/ How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send us a textLara Schmoisman and Don Allen, CIO/CISO of Moda Operandi, discuss the evolution of e-commerce, the impact of AI on user experience and SEO, and strategic technology adoption for competitive advantage.We'll talk about:The surprising truth about SEO today—and why organic reach is (almost) a myth.Why a "compelling website" is now just "table stakes" in e-commerce.The strategic shift: when to build bespoke tech and when to buy off-the-shelf solutions.How AI is revolutionizing product tagging and SEO for high-fashion platforms.The biggest challenge of migrating to new platforms—it's not the tech, it's the people.The key difference between physical and online stores: dynamic personalization.Moda Operandi's marketplace strategy: leveraging it for hard-to-store items and new designers.For more information, visit Don Allen' LinkedIn.Subscribe to Lara's newsletter.Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:Instagram: @laraschmoismanFacebook: @LaraSchmoismanSupport the show

In this episode of Restoration Pros Unplugged, Clinton James sits down with Nikole Mackenzie, Founder and CEO of Momentum Accounting, to break down how restoration businesses can turn financial mess into momentum.Nikole shares how her team helps owners gain control of cash flow, clean up chaotic books, and implement systems that scale—all through a modern, outsourced accounting model built specifically for restoration companies.You'll learn:Why restoration companies are uniquely suited for outsourced CFO and controller supportThe difference between bookkeepers, controllers, and CFOs—and when to bring each inHow a structured 3-step process can fix leaks in profit and cash flowThe top tech tools for automation, reporting, payroll, AR/AP, and project costingHow to make your financials a growth engine, not an afterthoughtWhether you're trying to scale or just want peace of mind around your numbers, this episode is packed with actionable insights.Want to get your finances out of the rearview mirror and into high gear?Visit https://restoration.momentumaccounting.com/ to learn how Nikole and her team can help your restoration business gain clarity, control, and confidence with modern accounting systems built to scaleIf you're interested in learning how Water Restoration Marketing can help you overcome the challenges discussed in this episode and get more water jobs, book a free strategy session with our team today!https://www.waterrestorationmarketing.net/schedule

This week, we're featuring a panel discussion from the 2025 Hill and Valley Forum with Josh Wolfe (Lux Capital), Senator Jack Reed (RI), and Qasar Younis, Founder and CEO, Applied Intuition They address talent attraction and retention, China's espionage and surveillance state, immigration policies, dual-use technologies, and the challenges and strategies in defense innovation and data security in AI and autonomous vehicles. —

CTO Series: The Anti-Scaling Paradox: Why and When a CTO Should Refuse to Grow His Team with Markus Hjort In this BONUS episode, we dive into a fascinating conversation with Markus Hjort, Co-founder and CTO of Bitmagic. With over 20 years of software development expertise, Markus shares invaluable insights on tech leadership, team scaling, and how AI is transforming the landscape of software development. From pivotal career moments to practical advice on aligning tech strategy with business objectives, this episode offers wisdom for technology leaders and developers alike. Defining Moments in Tech Leadership "As a leader, for me, it is important that we have a positive attitude." Markus reflects on two pivotal experiences that shaped his leadership philosophy. Early in his career, he received feedback about his positive approach to challenging tasks, which reinforced his belief in maintaining an optimistic outlook when facing difficulties. This approach has allowed him to inspire team members during tough situations. The second defining moment relates to estimation skills. After participating in a rescue mission for a delayed project, Markus learned the importance of making realistic ballpark estimates rather than succumbing to unrealistic deadlines. His initial two-year estimate for a project was met with resistance from a client who wanted it done in two months, but the project ultimately took four years to complete - twice his original estimate. Leads by example with a positive attitude toward challenges Values the skill of making quick but realistic ballpark estimates Recommends "Programming Pearls" for developers to improve estimation skills Emphasizes that product developers should create different options to reach goals In this segment, Markus refers to the book Programming Pearls. Aligning Tech Strategy with Business Objectives "Nothing should come for me as a surprise." When it comes to ensuring tech strategy supports business goals, Markus emphasizes the importance of continuous communication with key stakeholders. Through regular informal discussions, he stays aware of emerging ideas and maintains strong relationships with decision-makers. This approach helps him anticipate future feature requirements and translate technical strategy into business objectives. The foundation of this alignment is built on trust and transparency. Maintains constant discussions with critical stakeholders Develops awareness of emerging ideas through informal conversations Identifies and builds relationships with decision-makers Translates technical considerations into business language Fostering Collaboration Between Tech and Business Units "In the end we create the shared understanding and the habit of working together which creates better alignment and trust." While structured meetings are important, Markus believes that true collaboration happens when people work together across departmental boundaries. In previous roles, he implemented small, cross-functional teams that included business representatives during feature development. At Bitmagic, they conduct regular gameplay test sessions that anyone in the company can join, fostering unpredictable connections and conversations. These informal interactions are especially valuable in a remote-only company. Creates small teams with business representation for feature development Implements regular demo sessions open to everyone in the company Encourages cross-departmental work to build shared understanding Emphasizes the importance of informal discussions in remote environments Scaling Engineering Teams Strategically "You have to be careful when to scale, and when not to scale." Markus advocates for a measured approach to team growth during scaling phases. He believes in small teams of talented individuals and prefers to grow at a deliberate pace rather than rushing to add new members. Sometimes, he's even paused hiring to focus on meeting milestones with existing resources. When rapid scaling is necessary, Markus recommends considering contractors to reduce risk and gain specialized expertise quickly, particularly in fields like gaming that require deep specialization. Believes in small teams of talented individuals Grows team size at a deliberate pace Sometimes pauses hiring to focus on delivery with existing team Strategically uses both employees and contractors based on circumstances Navigating Financial Challenges in Startups "From the tech view it was clear this was not a good idea, but from the business perspective, it was the right decision to make." One of the toughest challenges Markus faced involved making difficult decisions during financial constraints. In a previous startup, when resources were tight, he had to split his team between the main product and a "side project" that had been sold to generate revenue. Though technically suboptimal, this business-driven decision was necessary for survival. This experience highlights the complex balancing act CTOs often face between technical ideals and business realities. The Impact of AI on Software Development "It has changed my way of thinking of my work as a programmer." Having worked on AI-powered game development for over two years, Markus has witnessed the rapid evolution of AI technologies. This experience has influenced his approach to team expansion, as he considers how AI might augment human capabilities. Personally, he now uses code assistants regularly and wouldn't return to traditional programming methods. AI has transformed his workflow as a programmer and expanded his capabilities, particularly as a full-stack engineer. Measuring Engineering Success Beyond Metrics "In early startup stages, one of the critical metrics is 'the working software.'" Rather than relying heavily on rigid metrics, Markus focuses on practical indicators of success for engineering teams. In early-stage startups, he prioritizes the frequency of releasing working software to end users. Additionally, he monitors team energy and morale, looking for signals in commit messages and code review comments that might indicate the team's well-being. As teams grow, he sees value in using tools to help track these emotional indicators systematically. Focuses on frequency of releasing working software Monitors team energy and morale as key indicators Looks for signals in commit messages and code reviews Considers team well-being as important as technical output Recommended Reading "Press 'pause' when you feel you are in a crisis situation." Markus credits "Rapid Development" by Steve McConnell as a significant influence on his approach to software development, particularly before Agile methodologies became mainstream. One lasting lesson from the book is avoiding the anti-pattern of "abandoning all planning under pressure." Instead, Markus recommends pausing when facing a crisis to reassess and plan effectively, rather than rushing into reactive solutions. About Markus Hjort Markus Hjort is the Co-founder and CTO of Bitmagic, with over 20 years of software development expertise. Starting with Commodore 64 game programming, his career spans gaming, fintech, and more. As a programmer, consultant, agile coach, and leader, Markus has successfully guided numerous tech startups from concept to launch. You can link with Markus Hjort on LinkedIn and listen to Markus Hjort's podcast in Finnish, and follow his work with the future of AI in gaming at Bitmagic.ai.

The conversation around AI in talent acquisition often focuses on incremental improvements and point solutions – better job descriptions, faster candidate matching, or automated interview scheduling. But this limited view dramatically underestimates the fundamental transformation that's already underway. While many are still debating whether AI is overhyped, there is growing evidence that it is actually significantly underhyped, with implications far beyond what most TA leaders are preparing for. So, how can TA move beyond tactical AI implementations to develop the strategic capabilities that will soon be essential? My guest this week is Jonathan Kestenbaum, Managing Director of Tech Strategy at AMS and a long-time trusted authority in work tech innovation. Jonathan cuts through the noise to explain why current industry discussions around AI are missing the bigger picture – a future where talent acquisition transforms into strategic orchestration and the way organizations attract and deploy talent is fundamentally reshaped . In the interview, we discuss:  The unprecedented speed of change compared to previous tech cycles  The current AI use cases that hint at a much more significant transformation ahead Why recruitment processes need a complete redesign, not just automation  The split between humans and machines and the impact on jobs Skills based firing Moving from talent acquisition to talent orchestration  What do TA Leaders need to do right now What does the TA Tech stack of the future look like Follow this podcast in Apple Podcasts. Follow this podcast on Spotify.