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How a Unified Communication System Empowers Employees and Delights Customers Shep interviews Damon Covey, General Manager of Unified Communications and Collaboration at GoTo. He talks about the importance of tailored, unified communication systems that reduce friction for both employees and customers. This episode of Amazing Business Radio with Shep Hyken answers the following questions and more: What advantages do unified communications bring to customer service? How does integrating multiple channels enhance customer experience? Why is minimizing friction important for trust and loyalty in service? What are the disadvantages of generic versus tailored communication tools? How can automation and AI improve customer support interactions? Top Takeaways: The "swiveling chair" problem hurts both customers and employees. Integrating all communication channels into a unified system prevents employees from constantly switching between programs, improving their workflow and eliminating unnecessary friction for customers. Employees can't provide amazing customer service if they are using slow, broken, or outdated systems. Most of the time, customers are frustrated not because of the person helping them but because of the tools that make solving the problem more complicated. Fragmented experiences erode customer trust. Whenever a customer has to repeat themselves or start over every time they switch between modes of communication (chatbot, email, phone, etc.), trust drops. Unified systems provide smooth experiences where the next agent knows what happened before and the best tools to help the customer are within easy reach. Follow the journey that your customers prefer. Businesses need to adapt their communication channels and technology based on what their customers actually want to use. Meet the customers where they are, whether through traditional phone calls, emails, or digital messaging. Plus, Shep and Damon discuss generational preferences in communication and how unifying these options can improve the customer experience. Tune in! Quote: "If you're building everything for everyone, you're special for no one." About: Damon Covey is the General Manager of Unified Communications and Collaboration (UCC) at GoTo. Before joining GoTo in 2021, he served as Vice President of Product Management at Cox Automotive and spent 14 years in leadership roles at cybersecurity company Symantec. Shep Hyken is a customer service and experience expert, New York Times bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and host of Amazing Business Radio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this UC Today interview, host Kristian McCann speaks with Callum Pennington, CEO & Co-Founder of HBHR, to unpack a growing issue facing modern organizations: employee wellbeing that's treated as a bolt-on rather than a business-critical priority. If you think wellbeing is about perks, think again. This discussion reveals why the fundamentals—like accurate pay, workload visibility, and unified data—are the real drivers of trust, engagement, and retention. Pennington joins UC Today to explain why organizations need to rethink how they approach wellbeing from the ground up.Key points:
Cisco TMS is approaching end of life, and organizations across the enterprise collaboration landscape are now facing major decisions about the future of their video infrastructure.In this episode of UC Today, Kristian McCann speaks with Giles Adams, CEO at VQ Communications, about the real-world impact of the TMS transition, the growing divide between cloud and on-prem strategies, and why regulated industries are taking a far more cautious approach to collaboration infrastructure.From government agencies protecting sensitive communications to enterprises balancing operational resilience with modern cloud innovation, this conversation explores the practical and strategic implications behind one of Cisco's biggest ecosystem shifts.Key discussion points include:
Before we dive in, sign up here for the May 12, 2026, webcast that we mentioned.Now on to our discussion...In this podcast episode, we explore what truly drives a consistent meeting room experience, and why simplicity, not over‑engineering, is the key to adoption. The conversation highlights how Neat's consistent product portfolio, paired with built-in machine learning and AI, creates intuitive, reliable experiences for both in-room and remote participants.Learn more about Neat solutions. The “Secret Sauce” of ConsistencyNeat's approach is rooted in two foundational elements:Consistent factors across Neat bars and boards, creating a familiar look and feel in every space.Machine learning and AI run behind the scenes to automatically optimize audio and video—whether a room uses a single device or multiple Neat devices for enhanced experiences in larger spaces.The result: better audio, better video, and a seamless experience without added complexity.Designed for the Way People Actually MeetRather than over-engineering meeting rooms, Neat focuses on what users actually want:Walk into the roomTap “Join” on the touch padStart the meetingToo often, complex rooms with multiple controllers, phones, cables, and presets discourage use altogether. Scalable, Without ComplexityNeat enables organizations to:Establish a standardized room experienceEasily scale and enhance rooms by adding multiple Neat devicesAvoid manual camera presets, audio tuning, or configuration changesOnce devices are added, Neat's intelligent technology handles the rest—automatically.Extending the Experience to Remote ParticipantsConsistency doesn't stop at the room; it extends to remote workers as well. With Neat devices like Neat Frame, remote participants benefit from:Easy meeting join experiencesHigh-resolution video and automatic framingClear audio that makes it feel like you're in the roomImproved engagement through facial expressions and direct conversation, even in large meetingsWhether at a desk, in a private office, a hot‑desking location, or a huddle space, the experience remains consistent everywhere.Visibility, Insight, and ReadinessWe also touch on how organizations can understand whether their spaces are being used and ready when needed, using:Neat Pulse for device and space insightsIntegration with Symphony for enhanced monitoring and managementLearn more about Neat solutions.Get AV and unified communications news delivered to your inbox.Follow AVI-SPL: Linkedin X YouTube
What if the biggest risk to patient care isn't clinical, but simply the inability to reach someone?In this episode of Straight Out of Health IT, Damon Covey, General Manager of Unified Communications & Collaboration at GoTo, discusses how fragmented communication systems are failing small- and mid-sized healthcare practices and impacting real patient outcomes. He explains that most practices rely on 5–7 disconnected tools, which create inefficiencies and missed interactions. He highlights how these gaps lead to staff burnout and poor patient experiences. He emphasizes that this is not just an operational issue, but a clinical and safety concern.He also explores the value of unified communications as a solution to this growing problem. By bringing calls, texts, scheduling, and data into one platform, practices gain visibility and control over patient interactions. This reduces context switching and administrative burden for staff. It also enables faster, more consistent responses for patients.Finally, he discusses the role of AI in transforming healthcare communication workflows. He shares how AI can automate routine tasks like scheduling and call routing while analyzing sentiment in real time. He stresses that AI works best when embedded into existing workflows rather than as a separate tool. He also warns against adopting too many point solutions, predicting consolidation into trusted platforms.Tune in to learn how simplifying communication, not adding more tools, can transform patient care and practice performance!ResourcesConnect with Damon Covey on LinkedIn here.Follow GoTo on LinkedIn here and visit their website here.
In the first episode of the UC Today AI & Productivity Show, Marcus Law hosts a roundtable on what AI productivity looks like in the real world — what's delivering value today, what's still not landing, and what leaders should focus on next.Marcus is joined by Tom Arbuthnot (Founder, Empowering.Cloud & Microsoft MVP), Mark Nixon (AI Business Solutions Go-To-Market Lead, Microsoft UK & Ireland), and Andreas Welsch (Founder & Chief AI Strategist, Intelligence Briefing).The discussion covers:
Kristian McCann speaks with Ryan Holmes, Digital Workspace Solution Architect at New Era Technology, about how 3D visualization is helping enterprises plan AV refreshes with far more confidence than traditional 2D drawings.Traditional 2D plans can look polished on paper, but they often miss the messy reality of how people actually use meeting rooms. Ryan explains how New Era Technology's immersive 3D approach helps teams test room layouts, device placement, acoustics, lighting, and camera coverage before a single cable is installed.Points of discussion include:See why 2D drawings can hide real-world issues like poor sight lines, weak mic pickup, and glare.Learn how immersive 3D and virtual reality make AV designs feel like a true-to-scale room clone.Discover how the platform helps IT, facilities, contractors, and users work from the same visual reference.Hear how visual-first planning can improve room adoption, reduce redesigns, and boost meeting quality.If you are planning an AV refresh and want to get it right the first time New Era Technology.For more Unified Communications & Collaboration Tech News visit UC Today.
Despite billions being spent on AI tools like Microsoft 365 Copilot and Google Workspace, most employees still aren't ready to use them effectively: and it's becoming a productivity problem.In this interview, JP Gownder, VP and Principal Analyst at Forrester, breaks down the findings from Forrester's second AIQ report: "AIQ 2.0: Employees (Still) Aren't Ready To Succeed With Workforce AI."JP explains what AIQ, the AI Quotient, actually measures, why the numbers have barely moved year-on-year, and why the gap between AI deployment and employee readiness is actively hurting organisations rather than just slowing them down.Key topics covered:
Redefining Unified Communications for AI Voice: Jon Arnold on the Five Threads Shaping the Future, Podcast, AI voice is not just another feature layered onto existing platforms—it represents a fundamental shift @Doug Green “We're moving from tactical improvements to a more strategic, holistic view of AI voice—and that changes everything about how businesses think about communications,” says Jon Arnold. In this Technology Reseller News podcast, I spoke with Jon Arnold about his presentation at the vCon Spring Conference 2026, where he outlined a framework for understanding how AI voice is reshaping unified communications. Arnold's central point is that AI voice is not just another feature layered onto existing platforms—it represents a fundamental shift. The industry is moving beyond tools like transcription and call recording toward treating conversations themselves as structured, valuable data that can drive business outcomes. A key part of this transformation is the emergence of standards such as vCon Foundation. By enabling conversations to be captured with context, metadata, and governance, vCon provides a foundation for portability, compliance, and interoperability across platforms. This is becoming increasingly important as enterprises seek to maintain control over their conversational data while deploying AI at scale. For MSPs, service providers, and channel partners, this shift creates a new opportunity. Rather than focusing primarily on seats and connectivity, partners can help customers unlock value from conversations—through analytics, automation, and AI-driven workflows. This opens the door to new revenue models tied to outcomes and intelligence rather than usage alone. The broader implication is that unified communications itself is being redefined. As AI voice becomes central to the experience, communications platforms are evolving into intelligence platforms—where every interaction can be captured, understood, and acted on.
Kristian McCann sits down with Ryan Zoehner, CEO at Algo, and Bryan McCarthy, VP Global Partnerships at Algo, to explore how education providers can take unified communications beyond screens and extend it reliably across the entire campus.Schools have relied on copper wire PA systems for decades — and for a long time, they did the job well enough. But as campuses grow, those legacy systems are showing their age in two very specific and very costly ways.First, the infrastructure itself. Copper wire PA networks are fixed and rigid. Adding a new speaker to a new classroom, a new building, or even a newly partitioned space isn't a simple plug-and-play exercise — it means running new cabling, commissioning physical installations, and absorbing costs that quickly spiral when a district is managing multiple sites.The second problem is these systems are one-way by design. Typically, the only person who can broadcast across the campus is the principal or a designated administrator triggering from a central control point. A teacher in a classroom who spots a safeguarding concern, a member of staff in a corridor who witnesses an incident, a caretaker in a building on the far side of campus — none of them can initiate a communication to the rest of the school.=This is the problem Ryan Zoehner and Bryan McCarthy address head-on in this conversation. From classrooms and corridors to playgrounds, gymnasiums, and auditoriums, they unpack why schools are some of the most demanding communication environments in any sector — and how modern IP endpoints close the gap between UC platforms and the physical spaces where staff, students, and visitors actually live and work.Watch the conversation to learn:Why education campuses are so challenging to keep consistently connected, with fragmented legacy PA, telephony, and security systems spread across multiple buildings and spaces. How integrating UC platforms with IP endpoints helps schools replace siloed phone and PA systems with a cohesive, district-wide communication layer—without needing to rip and replace everything at once. How UC-connected endpoints support everyday operations, from targeted classroom announcements and recess reminders to more efficient IT management through centralized monitoring and updates.How secure intercoms, two-way audio, and visual alerting enhance campus safety—from controlled door access to rapid, easy-to-trigger emergency notifications that staff can initiate from the UC clients they already use daily.Practical strategies for modernizing on a budget, including hybrid deployments that bridge existing analog infrastructure with new IP devices via paging adapters and open-standard SIP technology. What a truly future-ready education environment looks like: open standards, layered systems instead of disconnected silos, and centralized management at scale to support changing needs over the long term.For more Unified Communications & Collaboration Tech news, visit UC Today.
Chris Styczynski, Service Owner for Unified Communication and Collaboration at Clifford Chance, shares how the global law firm approached their RFP process for migrating from Cisco on-prem telephony to Microsoft Teams.• How Clifford Chance structured their RFP into six lots for flexibility: telephony migration, switchboard, contact centre, Operator Connect, on-site support, and managed services.• Why conducting an RFI first helped pre-qualify vendors and identify the right partners for a firm of their size.• The importance of understanding user requirements before going to market, especially as telephony needs evolve with AI and collaboration tools.• How to evaluate partners beyond technical skills—considering culture, flexibility, and communication style for an 18-month project.• Key considerations for global telephony migrations, including regulatory challenges across 20+ countries.Thanks to Numonix, this episode's sponsor, for their continued support of Empowering.Cloud.
Join Kieran Devlin from UC Today as he sits down with William Rubio, Chief Revenue Officer at CallTower, for a comprehensive "Big UC Update." If you are navigating the complex world of Unified Communications or trying to figure out where AI actually fits into your business strategy, this conversation sets the stage for what's working in 2026.In this candid session, Kieran and William explore the "colossal" year CallTower has had and what lies ahead. They move beyond the standard corporate pitch to discuss the "CallTower Dedicated" culture and the specific technologies that are solving real-world headaches for international businesses today.William breaks down CallTower's philosophy of "enabling people to connect," highlighting their agnostic approach to the big three - Microsoft, Cisco, and Zoom. The discussion gets specific on new innovations that are changing how employees communicate, shifting from general connectivity to seamless mobile integration. Key discussion points include:The "Dot Dot Dot" Ecosystem: How CallTower integrates over 30 applications - including CCaaS leaders like Genesys and Five9 - to create a turnkey solution that works identically in Germany, Brazil, or Canada.Product Innovation: A look at their game-changing WhatsApp integration for Microsoft Teams and the Dual eSIM technology that allows seamless, compliant separation of business and personal calls on a single mobile device.The AI Reality Check: William discusses the pressure boards are putting on CIOs to "implement AI," and how CallTower is helping clients take a practical, "build the house before the city" approach to avoid failed, massive projects.Market Outlook: Predictions on the inevitable consolidation of AI startups and the critical need for vendors to fill the education void for end-users.Connect with CallTower:Visit CallTower's website to learn more about their global coverage and "Connect" provisioning platform.
MVP Tom Arbuthnot shares all the latest Microsoft Teams and Copilot news and announcements in less than 15 minutes for February 2026.Many thanks to Neat for their continued support.PowerPoint DeckEnhanced M365 Copilot MemoryCopilot Chat (free) in Outlook with all emails and CalendarIlya Bukshteyn's ISE keynoteMicrosoft Teams Licensing Changes April 2026Places Roadmap UpdatesExpress voice enrolmentMeet App Becomes Events AppTeams Live Events and API are retiringMultiple phone numbers on Teams Phone DevicesTransitioning Teams Android Device ManagementEventsUseful Links:Briefings:Real AI Use Cases in the Contact Centre with Luware Nimbus - Costs, Risks and Benefits - Marcel Gaufroid, Head of Sales – EU, at LuwareMicrosoft Places in 2026: APIs, Desk Booking, and Copilot Context - Brennan McReynolds, Product Strategy Lead for Microsoft PlacesPure IP's Platform Strategy that Simplifies Enterprise Communications - Adnon Dow, Chief Strategy Officer at Pure IPAI Voice Agents - Sean Keegan, Developer Evangelist for Azure Communication Services at MicrosoftTeams Insider PodcastsThe role AV Distribution play in Microsoft Teams Rooms with Jenny Hicks, Technical Director at Midwich UKLogitech's New Rally AI Cameras and Multi-Camera Microsoft Teams Rooms with Henry Levak, VP of Product for Logitech for BusinessMicrosoft Places in 2026: APIs, Desk Booking, and Copilot Context Brennan McReynolds, Product Strategy Lead for Microsoft PlacesMicrosoft Teams Rooms and Phone Journey at Toyota Financial Services JT Elliott, Unified Communications and Collaboration Manager, at Toyota Financial Services
In this January 2026 edition of the UC Big News Show, Kieran Devlin (Host, UC Today) sits down with a sharp panel: Blair Pleasant, Craig Durr (The Collab Collective), Jon Arnold (J. Arnold & Associates) and Dom Black (Cavell). Together, they unpack where Unified Communications, collaboration, and workplace AI are really headed—cutting through hype to ask the questions IT buyers and business leaders actually care about: Where's the value, who's getting it, and what needs to change for 2026 to be the year pilots turn into outcomes?AI is everywhere—but the results aren't. The panel reacts to sobering CEO sentiment on AI value, digs into why trust, training, and culture keep getting overlooked, and debates whether Zoom's AI Companion benchmark moment signals a real shift toward orchestration and multi-model strategies. Then the conversation turns to a hot industry reality: with budgets tight and vendors building their own roadshows, are independent events like Enterprise Connect evolving—or sliding toward irrelevance?In this episode, we cover:Why the “AI value gap” is widening—and why revenue growth deserves as much attention as cost cuttingThe overlooked blockers: responsible AI processes, transparency, user adoption, and prompting skillsWhat Zoom's federated, multimodal approach suggests about the future: orchestration, connectors, and “best model for the job”The 2026 events debate: why ISE is booming, why software shows must reinvent themselves, and why vertical-specific events may winNext steps:Audit where AI is actually used in your org (including shadow AI) and map it to measurable outcomesPublish and socialize a responsible AI policy employees can understand and trustIf you're attending ISE / IT Expo / CCW Berlin / Enterprise Connect, drop a comment with where you'll be—UC Today's team would love to connect
Just as Internet providers and transportation companies often struggle with the "last mile" of reaching the customer at the end of the chain, hospitals are too often blind to what's happening in the patient's room. This problem drives the recent acquisition of eVideon, smart room solution provider, by TigerConnect, a unified communication platform. In this video we hear about the goals of the combined companies from Sean O'Neal, CEO of TigerConnect, and Jeff Fallon, General Manager of eVideon, a TigerConnect Company.Learn more about TigerConnect: https://tigerconnect.com/Learn more about eVideon: https://www.evideon.com/Healthcare IT Community: https://www.healthcareittoday.com/
In this episode of UC Today, host Christopher Carey sits down with Tim Ward, Product Marketing Specialist at Global Relay, and Irwin Lazar, President and Principal Analyst at Metrigy, to unpack the findings of Metrigy's latest report on the rapidly expanding compliance risks across unified communications.With enterprises adopting Teams, WhatsApp, SMS, AI assistants, and more, the discussion digs into why compliance can no longer lag behind innovation – and how leaders can avoid costly missteps that impact productivity, security, and regulatory accountability.Unified communications is evolving faster than most compliance frameworks can keep up – and the consequences are real. In this candid conversation, Tim and Irwin reveal where organizations are slipping, how AI-generated content complicates record-keeping, and why blocking apps often backfires. They share first-hand examples of multimillion-dollar fines, the hidden risks of employee workarounds, and the operational insights companies can unlock when they treat compliance data as a strategic asset rather than a burden.
JT Elliott, Unified Communications and Collaboration Manager, at Toyota Financial Services, shares his journey from traditional AV to deploying over 300 Microsoft Teams Rooms with Logitech.JT's career path from courtroom AV systems through 7-Eleven to Toyota Financial ServicesThe decision to standardise on Logitech Rally Bars and Rally Board 65 for 300+ rooms and plans to deploy 150 more.Experience deploying 125 Rally Boards in just six weeks with integration partner AVI-SPLWhy Toyota chose Android-based MTRs and the flexibility of Logitech's platformThe importance of observability and reliability in room system operationsMigrating from Direct Routing to Operator Connect for Microsoft Teams PhoneThanks to Logitech, this episode's sponsor, for their continued support of Empowering.Cloud
In this UC Today interview, Christopher Kerry sits down with Steve Forham, Marketing & Channel Chief at Cypio, to unpack the latest in Unified Communications — from Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Cisco Webex, to AI-driven innovation transforming the hybrid workplace.
In this episode of Big UC Update, UC Today's Head of Content, Susie Harrison, sits down with Sahar Kahani, Chief Product Officer at Global Relay, to explore the company's unique approach to product development, compliance innovation, and AI-driven transformation in the world of Unified Communications.Discover:- Sahar's inspiring journey from software engineering to CPO- How Global Relay builds technology in-house to stay ahead- Why regulated industries are doubling down on secure, compliant UC tools- The launch of My Archive – a next-gen AI-powered app redefining user access to historical communication data- Global Relay's stance on cloud independence, AI strategy, and customer-first product designTopics covered include compliance surveillance, off-channel communication risks, user experience design, and market innovation.Perfect for IT leaders, compliance professionals, and UC strategists navigating the challenges of regulated communication environments.Learn why Global Relay is gaining traction as a tech-focused alternative in a landscape dominated by cloud-dependent UC vendors.Watch now and stay informed on the latest tech shaping the future of unified communications.
In this UC Today interview, host Kieran Devlin speaks with Benny Matityahu, VP of Unified Communications & Collaboration at AudioCodes, and Roy Wizeman, Director of UCaaS Platform & Solutions at AudioCodes. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities facing channel partners as they navigate a fast-changing market defined by multi-UCaaS adoption, voice connectivity complexities, and AI-driven value-added services.Channel partners today are balancing customer demand across multiple UCaaS platforms while also being asked to deliver more advanced services. In this discussion, Benny and Roy explain how AudioCodes' Live Platform is designed to simplify that journey, remove barriers to multi-UCaaS growth, and create space for innovation with AI.Watch to discover:Why channel partners are embracing multi-UCaaS strategies to meet customer demand for flexibility.How AudioCodes Live Platform streamlines voice connectivity, migration, and interoperability across vendors.Real-world examples of partners scaling recurring revenue by layering AI-powered services such as contact center, transcription, and meeting insights.Where the partner opportunity lies as UCaaS commoditises and value shifts toward AI-enabled solutions.Next Steps:
UC Today's David Dungay hosts John Tucker, VP of Product, Intermedia In this session we discuss the following:1) Challenges surrounding delivering a seamless Microsoft Teams Operator Connect experience2) How Service Providers can stand out with a Teams proposition3) Avoiding the 'commodity trap' by building higher value propositionsIf you're looking for more information on this topic, visit https://intermedia.comProduced by UC Today News - Unified Communications & Collaboration Tech News #UCaaS #ChannelNews #MicrosoftTeamsThanks for watching, if you'd like more like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our channel. You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.For more Unified Communications & Collaboration Tech News visit https://www.uctoday.com/
What's the future of Unified Communications? Join us for a deep dive with Michelle Paitich, Channel Chief at 8x8, as she shares her expert insights on the evolving UC landscape.Susie Harrison, Head of Content, uncovers the key trends and technologies shaping the industry, including:- The growing importance of AI and AI orchestration- The continued demand for simplicity and integrated platforms- The rise of Omni-channel experiences- The critical role of trust, security, and compliance- The evolution of partner and operating modelsDiscover how 8x8 is innovating to meet these challenges and empower businesses to deliver exceptional customer experiences.
Cloud migration isn't just a buzzword—it's the defining challenge and opportunity for today's enterprise telephony leaders. In this UC Today session, host Kieran Devlin sits down with Tim Jalland, Solution Manager at VOSS, to explore how VOSS Discover helps global enterprises transform their PBX to cloud transition while unlocking real financial and operational gains.Drawing on a real case study of a 100,000+ employee multinational, Tim reveals how automation, right-sizing, and hybrid models can accelerate a Microsoft Teams Phone migration without disruption. From auditing legacy PBX estates to cutting 20–30% of ongoing OPEX, this session proves that Unified Communications modernization isn't just possible—it's powerful.
In this episode of the Know Grow Scale podcast, Laura Johns talks with Jill Munsterman, President of IParigon, a woman‑owned VoIP and Unified Communications provider that's changing the rules in telecom. Jill has been in telecommunications for 20 years. She's built IParigon around three pillars: reliability, clear support, and flexibility—no long‑term contracts. If you work in MSPs, telecom, or voice, or you're leading a communications business, Jill brings real, usable advice on how to stay competitive and keep customers longer in this space. What You'll Learn from Jill Why letting customers leave any time changes how you build support How leadership (especially female leadership) can shape culture in a male‑dominated space without needing to be “loud” How to show value through honest relationships, not overpromises How to evaluate your current telecom provider contracts and see when support is costing more than you think You can learn more about how IParigon serves businesses across the Midwest with contract-free voice solutions at iparigon.com. ____________________________________________________ About The Business Growers Many Managed Services Providers and IT companies struggle to grow because they are constantly putting out fires and don't have the bandwidth to focus on the marketing strategy and execution required to scale the business. At The Business Growers, we believe you shouldn't have to hire a full-time marketing team to compete in the marketplace. We work exclusively with MSPs and IT companies, serving as their tech marketing dream team and offering a proven framework for revenue growth. Visit us at https://thebusinessgrowers.com/
**** Wondering how to manage family conflicts on your big day? **** → → This edition is packed with insights on tackling tension and nurturing your relationship. → → This podcast is for engaged couples who are stressed out with wedding planning and family expectations, but want a fun wedding day. → → We'll offer tips on handling family expectations, setting priorities, and maintaining a stress-free environment. → → By the end of this edition, you'll discover how to navigate these tricky dynamics and learn communication strategies, without overshadowing your big day Stress-free Wedding Planning Podcast # 170: Navigating Wedding Day Conflicts With Love and Grace Host: Sal & Sam Music: "Sam's Tune" by Rick Anthony TIMESTAMP 00:00 Introduction to Navigating Wedding Day Conflicts With Love and Grace 01:00 Podcast Overview and Goals 04:00 Understanding The Roots of The Problem 05:00 Honest Communication 06:00 Shared Priorities 07:00 Unified Communication 08:00 Hosting Smaller Separate Gatherings 10:00 Wedding Tip Wednesday 12:00 Don't Neglect Yourself 14:00 Review 14:30 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement 15:00 Closing Remarks and Farewell Get your FREE no-obligation report TODAY: "8 QUESTIONS YOU MUST ASK A WEDDING PROFESSIONAL BEFORE BOOKING THEM" http://forms.aweber.com/form/55/756659955.htm Music List Giveaway https://www.afterhourseventsofne.com/guestcontact *** Join us in the Stress-free Wedding Planning Facebook group https://urlgeni.us/facebook/stress-free-wedding-planning Copyright © 2025 Atmosphere Productions LLC All Rights Reserved. Produced by Atmosphere Productions in association with After Hours Events of New England https://atmosphere-productions.com https://www.afterhourseventsofne.com #2025Bride #2026Bride #2027Bride #WeddingPlanning #WeddingCeremony #weddingtension #NewEnglandWedding #WeddingPreparations #WeddingChecklist #weddingpro #weddingexperts #WeddingInspo #WeddingIdeas #WeddingConflicts #WeddingGoals #WeddingWisdom #WeddingTips #DreamWedding #WalkDownTheAisle #StressFreeWedding #StressFreeWeddingPlanning #StressFreeWeddingPlanningPodcast #WeddingPodcast #WeddingTipWednesday #WeddingAdvice #WeddingDay #CTweddingdj #WeddingDJ #AtmosphereProductions #AfterHoursEventsOfNE
Send us a textIn this episode of Joey Pinz Discipline Conversations, Joey sits down with William Rubio, CRO of CallTower, live at the MSP Summit in Orlando. William shares his journey of giving back through nonprofits like A Child Is Missing, and how discipline, consistency, and good habits drive both personal and professional success.They dive deep into the world of Unified Communications (UC) and Customer Experience (CX), breaking down how MSPs can leverage platforms like Microsoft Teams, Cisco WebEx, and Zoom to create new revenue streams while strengthening client relationships. William explains why MSPs shouldn't try to do everything themselves, how CallTower enables MSPs to add voice and compliance-ready solutions without the heavy lifting, and the role AI is beginning to play in customer productivity.If you're an MSP looking to scale, improve efficiency, and focus on what you do best, this conversation delivers practical advice on partnership, growth, and discipline.
Interactive displays in art installations and cultural parks are increasing visitor dwell time, LED technology is reshaping public engagement. MotoGP broadcasters ditched beta testing and went straight to air with AI-powered AR, could your next Zoom call feature virtual graphics? Reality check: Users don't think like engineers, and that iPad running your exact same interface just proved it. The video version of this podcast can be found here.Guest host Patrick Norton and his industry expert guests bring you another must-watch AVWeek episode covering critical topics from the commercial AV world. Join the conversation as we explore what's really driving LED market growth beyond the specs, examine AR technology's migration from sports to corporate communications, and discover why the future of AV programming requires an architect's mindset, not just an engineer's toolkit.Host: Patrick NortonGuests:Bren Walker – KirkegaardJeremy Caldera – Pearl TechnologiesJosh Keller – CTIRoundtable Topics:AV Magazine – Display Market GrowthAVNation – AR/VR in Unified CommunicationsrAVe Pubs – Desire Paths in AV ProgrammingSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Watch on YouTube.In this August edition of the Microsoft Teams Show, hosts Kristian McCann and and Tom Arbuthnot dissect some of the biggest Teams stories from the past month with the panel – from meetings on the move to AI that can see your screen.Mercedes Enables Teams Video Calls While DrivingTeams meetings are now available on the go – but is this the future of mobile collaboration or a serious safety concern?Teams Search Gets SmarterSQL-style search is on its way – finally! But will it actually help users find what they need, or just add more complexity?Threaded Conversations: Teams Borrows from Slack (Again)Another Slack-like feature arrives – is this improving the experience or just Microsoft playing catch-up?SharePoint Servers Under AttackA major breach raises big questions for on-premises customers – and for Teams, which is tightly integrated with SharePoint.Copilot Vision AI Can Now See Your ScreenMicrosoft's AI assistant just got a new set of eyes – but is this a game-changer or a privacy nightmare in the making?Plus, we're joined by special guest Robbie Warwick, UCaaS & CCaaS Transformation Leader at Accenture Song, who shares insights from his 20-year career — including leading a massive Teams transformation at the UK Home Office.Hosted by the UC Today editorial team – tune in for the latest Microsoft Teams updates, expert takes, and real-world insights.Let us know in the comments which stood out to you the most!Thanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our new LinkedIn Community Group.
Watch on YouTube.In this edition of UC Big News, host Kieran Devlin is joined by leading UC analysts Zeus Kerravala and Blair Pleasant to unpack three headline-grabbing stories shaking up the collaboration world. First up, the team shares takeaways from Zoom Perspectives, where Zoom's vision of an AI-powered “Workplace” was more compelling than ever. Then they turn to the reported rift between Microsoft and OpenAI, and what it signals for enterprise AI partnerships. Finally, things get slightly more surreal with a discussion of Microsoft Teams meetings being enabled in Mercedes-Benz vehicles — and whether that's a productivity win or just a corporate boundary too far.Enterprise AI and collaboration took a weird and wonderful turn this week — and UC Big News is here for all of it. The trio takes stock of what's real, what's hype, and what IT leaders should watch closely.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:Zoom's AI Work Platform evolves — With live agent copilots and better cross-surface integration, Zoom's once-vague AI story is turning into a practical, productised vision for modern work.Microsoft and OpenAI tensions rise — Reports suggest growing disagreements over product direction and control. Blair and Zeus explore why betting everything on one AI partner could create long-term risks.Teams in your car? — Mercedes-Benz drivers can now take Microsoft Teams calls on the road. The panel asks: is this a helpful innovation for field workers, or a work/life balance killer on wheels?Next Steps:Still undecided about Teams in cars? Share your hot take in the comments.Curious about Zoom's evolving AI platform? We'll have more deep dives coming soon.Subscribe to UC Big News for sharp analysis and strong opinions on the future of enterprise comms.Thanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our new LinkedIn Community Group.
Forget hardware first, AI is now your AV technician! Jetbuilt's Jetbot proves software is officially running the show, not just supporting it. And Forrester's UCaaS rankings just sparked major debates about who really deserves the top spots.The video version of this podcast can be found here.Join host Tim Albright and a panel of AV pros as they break down what the software-first revolution means for AV/IT leaders and the entire industry. Plus, get the unfiltered take on Forrester's UCaaS evaluation, what they nailed, what they missed, and who got completely overlooked.Host: Tim AlbrightGuests:Dawn Meade – Dawn on LinkedInGarth Lobban – Garth on LinkedInCraig Durr – Collab CollectiveThis Week In AV:AV Magazine – Encocomm #1 Integrator in EuropeAV Magazine – DCC Sells ExertisCommercial Integrator – Christie Digital selling Pandora's Box lineTechCrunch – Google adds calling features to GeminiAT Today – Smart Glasses from EnvisionRoundtable Topics:AV Buyers' Club – Jetbuilt's AI-Powered JetbotUC Today – Zoom, Google, Cisco & Microsoft lead UCSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Join UC Today's Kristian McCann as he talks with Joe Gillis, Senior Vice President of Sales and GVC & Strategic Growth about New Era Technology and their solutions and market insights.In this comprehensive interview, Gillis shares his thoughts on the power of partnerships, the evolving world of AI, and how New Era is tackling the challenges of delivering seamless service on a global scale. If you're interested in understanding how a leading systems integrator helps companies stays agile and future-ready, then tune in to hear the following:Learn how New Era grew into a 4,500-employee powerhouse spanning 180+ countries and seamlessly integrates acquisitions into its strategy.How AI is being incorporated into customer solutions, making workflows faster, more insightful, and more cost-effective.The differences in New Era's mid-market vs. enterprise offerings and the tailored support that large-scale companies demand.How the company fosters a transparent, collaborative culture that embraces feedback and continuous adaptation to stay competitive.
Watch on YouTube.In this July 2025 edition of the Microsoft Teams News Show, co-hosts Rob Scott and Kristian McCann of UC Today are joined by Tom Arbuthnot (Empowering.Cloud) and an expert panel featuring Kevin Kieller, Ryan Herbst, and Josh Blalock. Together, they unpack a transformative month for Microsoft Teams, from sweeping layoffs to rapid Copilot deployment and rising data sovereignty concerns.Microsoft enters its new fiscal year with bold moves—cutting roles, re-aligning priorities, and pushing harder on AI. Tom Arbuthnot details the internal shakeups and how they're tied to the company's CoPilot-first vision. One of the biggest headlines? Barclays Bank's rollout of 100,000 M365 Copilot licenses—one of the largest deployments to date.The panel also dissects the end of Teams Classic, enhanced tools for IT pros, and the strategic launch of real-time voice Copilot across platforms. Meanwhile, Europe's pushback on data sovereignty, including a German municipality's exit from Teams, hints at larger geopolitical tensions in cloud tech. It's an unmissable update filled with practical takeaways and expert insights.Discussion Highlights:Microsoft's FY25 kickoff: Layoffs, new roles, and renewed focus on AI and agentic capabilitiesEnterprise AI at scale: Barclays rolls out 100,000 Copilot licenses and what that means for adoptionTeams Classic sunset, new IT health dashboards, and AI-powered Teams Room administrationEuropean data sovereignty challenges and Microsoft's “M365 Local” and sovereign cloud responsesNext Steps:For deeper dives into Copilot, agentic AI, and what's next in FY25, don't miss the Microsoft Partner Kickoff on July 22 and the Copilot Fireside Chat on July 31.Thanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our new LinkedIn Community Group.
Join host Kristian McCann and Ari Applbaum, VP of Marketing at LeapXpert, as they dive deep into the evolving security landscape of enterprise messaging.With messaging apps like WhatsApp, WeChat, and iMessage now integral to daily business communications, understanding the risks and solutions is more critical than ever. This insightful conversation unpacks why every business leader, IT professional, and compliance officer should pay attention to the hidden vulnerabilities in off-channel messaging.In this revealing interview, Applbaum explains why messaging has become the new frontline for cyber threats and how most businesses can bring compliance through unification of their communications. The discussion covers:The primary security risks when employees use consumer messaging apps for business, including phishing, malware, and data leakage.How hackers exploit gaps in governance and the dangers of BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) culture.Common misconceptions about end-to-end encryption, device management, and compliance with disappearing messages.The severe legal, compliance, and reputational consequences of failing to secure messaging channels.
In this episode, host Kieran Devlin sits down with Chris Miller, Vice President of Technology and Solutions at Pacific Office Automation (POA), to explore how auto dealerships are transforming their communications strategies.Chris shares front-line insights into the sector's unique challenges—from outdated tech to rising customer expectations—and how unified communications solutions from Intermedia are helping dealerships boost responsiveness, improve internal efficiency, and gain powerful analytics-driven insights.If you're in a tech decision-making role or serve the auto retail space, this is a must-watch conversation on turning communication from a headache into a competitive edge. Key takeaways include:The shift from outdated on-prem phone systems to cloud-based UCaaS for real-time communication and agility.How Intermedia's seamless integration with tools like Microsoft Teams supports dealership workflows and boosts adoption.The critical importance of ease of use, mobile access, and simplified deployment for IT-strapped dealership operations.Why AI and advanced analytics will drive the next wave of communication innovation in auto retail.
Sennheiser's Simon Holley stops by The Collaboration Space to share insights on how quality audio keeps your spaces future-ready.Simon shares:The latest TeamConnect solutions that enable seamless collaborationFeatures that set TeamConnect apart from the competitionHow Sennheiser is structured to best support customers and partners as demands grow in ever-changing environmentsDetails on a successful collaboration with AVI-SPL at a live eventA sneak peek into what's coming next for SennheiserLearn more about AVI-SPL and Sennheiser.Explore the Sennheiser TeamConnect family.Get AV and unified communications news delivered to your inbox.Follow AVI-SPL: Linkedin X YouTube
Watch on YouTube.In this jam-packed episode of UC Big News, host Kieran Devlin is joined by expert analysts Jon Arnold, Melody Brue, Craig Durr, and Zeus Kerravala for a whirlwind tour of the latest from the unified communications world.The team unpacks Mitel's return from bankruptcy, gets hands-on with Google Beam's volumetric video marvel, and decodes Cisco's new enterprise-focused vision for Webex, fresh from Cisco Live 2025.Whether you're a tech leader, vendor watcher, or just UC-curious, this is the episode to watch. Three seismic updates, one expert panel, here's what you'll learn in this episode:Mitel is back! The team debates whether slashing $1.15 billion in debt and doubling down on hybrid UC is enough to revive the brand in a cloud-first world.Google Beam wowed InfoComm — with light field displays, spatial audio, and real-time translation. Melody Brue calls it “shockingly natural,” while the crew unpacks pricing, practicality, and use cases from executive comms to telehealth.Cisco pivots Webex — unveiling a security- and observability-first pitch at Cisco Live. Is this a necessary evolution for serious enterprise buyers? The team weighs in on whether this is Cisco's best Webex strategy yet.Big questions raised — from the future of on-prem UC to whether 3D meeting rooms can scale, and if Cisco's security-first focus can win back market momentum.Next Steps: ✅ Subscribe to UC Big News for sharp, unscripted insights on UC, CX, and collaboration.
In this interview, host Kieran Devlin sits down with Will Morey, Managing Director of Channel at Gamma, to explore the thinking behind Gamma Edge — a comprehensive new partner initiative designed to give resellers a competitive edge in today's challenging market.With macroeconomic pressures, increased focus on voice security, and the growing demand for AI-powered solutions, Gamma Edge responds with a strategy rooted in listening, alignment, and tailored support. Whether you're a partner looking to scale, attract investment, or strengthen profitability, this is a must-watch conversation on the future of channel enablement.Gamma's new partner programme — Edge — is more than just a set of perks. It's a business growth engine. In this candid interview, Will Morey walks us through how Gamma is responding to real-world partner feedback to deliver meaningful support, practical incentives, and long-term alignment. Key takeaways include:Partner Pulse: A co-planned growth journey, backed by data-driven insights tailored to each reseller's business goals.Velocity Rebates: A generous, growth-linked rebate scheme that rewards cross-portfolio engagement and reinvests directly in partner businesses.Gamma Elements: A flexible toolkit of UCaaS, mobile, connectivity, cybersecurity, and IoT services, designed to suit each customer and partner use case.Boosts & MyGreat: Inclusive UCaaS call minutes, aggressive connectivity pricing, and a hands-on migration program that takes the operational headache off partners' plates.Morey makes one thing clear: this isn't about pushing product — it's about empowering partners to realise their ambitions, with Gamma playing a trusted, enabling role every step of the way.
In this episode of UC Today, host Rob Scott sits down with Garth Landers, Director of Global Product Marketing at Theta Lake, to tackle one of the most urgent and overlooked risks in Unified Communications today: voice compliance.As enterprises migrate from legacy PBX systems to cloud-first platforms like Microsoft Teams Phone and Zoom Phone, many are leaving a dangerous gap in their compliance stack. Voice is no longer isolated — it's deeply integrated with chat, video, AI tools, and screen sharing — yet many compliance strategies are still built for a siloed world.Why watch this? Because as AI transforms UC platforms and vendors roll out new features at lightning speed, knowing how to govern all forms of communication data — including voice — is critical to avoid regulatory risks and future-proof your organization.Key discussion points include:Why voice compliance continues to lag behind messaging and video — and why that's a risk.The top challenges enterprises face when migrating voice to cloud platforms like Teams & Zoom.How to ensure consistent compliance across hybrid UC environments with multiple voice channels.How Theta Lake's solutions enable real-time risk detection and flexible archiving for voice, chat, video, and AI-generated content.Practical advice for IT and compliance leaders preparing for AI-driven voice features and virtual agents.Next Steps: If your organization is modernizing its UC stack or exploring AI-powered communication features, now is the time to review your compliance readiness. Explore how Theta Lake can help you bridge the gap and stay ahead of regulatory demands.
Watch on YouTube.In this must-watch episode of UC Today, host Kieran Devlin sits down with renowned analyst Dave Michels of TalkingPointz to dive into the headline insights from the May Insider Report.With Kieran making his video series debut and Dave bringing his signature wit and industry expertise, the two unpack a turbulent moment in tech—from AI's disruptive trajectory to Big Tech's regulatory headaches. If you care about the future of work, search, or enterprise communication platforms, this conversation delivers unmissable clarity—and a few laughs along the way.From AI's creeping impact on jobs to the shifting sands of online search, this video covers the most pressing narratives in enterprise tech. Dave Michels joins UC Today's Kieran Devlin to unpack his latest TalkingPointz Insider Report, revealing what matters—and why.Key Highlights Include:AI's Efficiency Paradox: Why tools like Copilot and Gemini are driving productivity—but not yet replacing jobs—and why that balance might not last.Mary Meeker's 340-Slide AI Bombshell: What stood out most in the queen of the internet's long-awaited return to trend analysis.The Slow Death of Google Search: How AI is cannibalizing search queries—and why that's dangerous for publishers and digital marketing.Microsoft vs. the EU: What's really behind the Teams-M365 unbundling saga, and why Microsoft's fix may not fly with regulators.Whether you're a tech strategist, analyst, or curious end-user, Dave's insights help make sense of a rapidly evolving landscape.Next Steps:Subscribe to TalkingPointz for exclusive deep dives and future Insider Reports.Follow UC Today for the latest updates on enterprise communications and collaboration.Drop a comment—do you think AI is a productivity boost or job threat?Thanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our LinkedIn Community Group.
In this episode of The Collaboration Space podcast. Nancy is joined by John Bailey from AVI-SPL and Crestron's Brad Hintze. The group discusses how AI is advancing rapidly and how AVI-SPL and Crestron can help you accelerate your path to AI readiness. They also share insights on how the latest AV technology enables AI and ways to keep up with the rapid changes in AI capabilities.Learn more about AVI-SPL and Crestron.Watch the video podcast on YouTube.Get AV and unified communications news delivered to your inbox.Follow AVI-SPL: Linkedin X YouTube
Watch on YouTube.In the June 2025 edition of the Microsoft Teams News Show, host Rob Scott from UC Today is joined by Tom Arbuthnot of Empowering.Cloud and a seasoned panel of experts for a fast-paced breakdown of what's shaping the Microsoft Teams ecosystem. Fresh off his holiday and full of insights, Tom unpacks the biggest headlines from Microsoft Build, the newest Teams collaboration features, Copilot updates, Teams Phone innovations, and what to expect from key events like InfoComm, CCW Las Vegas, and Commsverse UK.With AI deepening its roots across the Microsoft 365 landscape, this episode takes you inside the latest announcements — including multi-agent orchestration, threaded messages, live transcription, speaker recognition in Android rooms, and more.Key Discussion Points:Copilot Breakthroughs at Microsoft Build:Tom and the panel unpack Copilot tuning, Model Context Protocol (MCP), and game-changing multi-agent orchestration that makes AI more adaptable and enterprise-ready than ever before.Smart Collaboration Updates in Teams:Threaded replies, streamlined file sharing with external users, and deeper AI integrations make team chat and channel work more intuitive and secure.Copilot in Teams – Deep Dive:Intelligent Recap now includes shared screen content, audio summaries, and real-time agents in meetings — taking productivity to new heights.Teams Phone & Teams Rooms Innovations:From transient transcription in sensitive calls to long-awaited call-waiting beeps and full speaker recognition for Android Rooms, the UC experience is expanding fast.Next Steps:Tune in to InfoComm (June 7–13) and CCW (June 9–12)Don't miss Commsverse (June 18–19)Apply for the UC Awards before June 20Watch the full episode to hear more about the community sessions and fireside chats coming this month.Thanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our new LinkedIn Community Group.
In this episode, panelists from various government sectors discuss the critical importance of contact centers and share their experiences, challenges, and strategies for improving service delivery. The discussion includes insights into the role of technology, automation, and human factors in transforming contact centers. Key topics covered include the importance of simplicity, measuring the right metrics, leveraging AI, and fostering inter-agency collaboration. The discussion also highlights the rapid adaptations during the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing efforts to enhance customer experience in public.Facilitator: Martha Dorris, Dorris Consulting International,Moderator: Meghan Daly, Former Federal DirectorPanelists: Gundeep Ahluwalia, EVP & Chief Innovation Officer, NuAxisMia Jordan, Industry Advisor and Digital Transformation SME, SalesforceMarcellus Walker Jr., Acting Deputy Director of Operations, Office of Unified Communications, DC GovernmentTenesia Wells, Deputy Director, Department of Emergency and Customer Communications, Alexandria VA Government Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.Learn more about membership at https://www.actiac.org/join.Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate. Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria TellsCourtesy of Epidemic Sound(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young CommunityCourtesy of Epidemic Sound)
What happens when you combine 8 billion minutes of voice data with a full-stack AI engine? Yes, that's what Dialpad is doing. In this episode, Brian Peterson, CTO and Co-Founder, breaks down how they've built an AI-powered communications platform from the ground up. From real-time sales coaching and AI-driven support agents to predictive analytics that can spot churn before it happens, Brian shares why owning the full stack — infrastructure, LLMs, and data is the only way to deliver truly intelligent customer experience. If you're curious about the future of AI in business communication, this is the episode to watch. Stay Updated: Craig Smith on X:https://x.com/craigss Eye on A.I. on X: https://x.com/EyeOn_AI (00:00) Brian's Founding Story (03:56) What Dialpad Actually Does Today (05:17) Is Voice the Most Valuable Untapped Data Source? (07:41) Inside DialpadGPT (10:10) AI Solutions for Sales, Support & Collaboration (12:24) Owning the Entire Customer Journey with Unified Comms (14:11) How Dialpad Stays Ahead in the AI Race (17:50) Real-Time AI Coaching & Playbooks (22:32) Why Most Enterprises are Behind in AI Adoption (25:28) Action-Oriented AI Agents (32:40) What's Next for AI in Customer Communication
In this special live edition of The Buzz, Pete Tseronis interviews key industry leaders on the critical role of contact centers in delivering services, especially through digital and omni-channel strategies. Key speakers, including Martha Dorris of Dorris Consulting International; Amanda Chavez from Qualtrics; Mia Jordan from Salesforce; Marcellus Walker, Jr. from the Office of Unified Communications; Gundeep Ahluwalia from NuAxis Innovations; MaryAnn Monroe from Maximus; Tanya Slater Lowe from the U.S. Department of Labor; Crystal Philcox from Philcox Consulting, share insights on improving customer experience using technologies like AI, sentiment analysis, and automation. The summit emphasized empathy, data-driven decision-making, and the pivotal role of contact centers as the entry point to agencies. Practical lessons, success stories, and future projections for contact centers are also discussed, providing actionable strategies for government and industry leaders. Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform to never miss an episode! For more from ACT-IAC, follow us on LinkedIn or visit http://www.actiac.org.Learn more about membership at https://www.actiac.org/join.Donate to ACT-IAC at https://actiac.org/donate. Intro/Outro Music: See a Brighter Day/Gloria TellsCourtesy of Epidemic Sound(Episodes 1-159: Intro/Outro Music: Focal Point/Young CommunityCourtesy of Epidemic Sound)
Watch on YouTube.In this UC Today exclusive, host David Dungay is joined by Microsoft experts Tom Arbuthnot, Kevin Kieller, Amanda Sterner, Ryan Herbst, Satish Upadhyaya, and Tom Halards for the highly anticipated Microsoft Teams Monthly Update.With Microsoft's staggering quarterly results and a raft of new Teams innovations, this conversation takes you behind the headlines into what's really happening — from Copilot's evolving AI personas to critical updates in Teams Rooms and Contact Center integrations. Whether you're a decision-maker, IT pro, or everyday Teams user, this episode is packed with can't-miss insights on the future of collaboration and communication.Microsoft Teams is evolving fast — and it's not slowing down.In this dynamic roundtable, the panel unpacks the biggest Teams stories and roadmap highlights you need to know:Microsoft's record-breaking financials and 430M+ M365 users: What's driving growth and where is Teams in the mix?Contact Center evolution with Unify certification and licensing enforcement: Major changes for integrated voice solutions.Copilot 2.0 and the rise of AI Agents: From assistants to "Agent Bosses" — why training and adoption are now essential.Rooms and Devices upgrades: Face recognition, translated captions, local PTZ controls, and facilitator AI agents for Android.Roadmap gems: Sensitive content detection, silent test calls, remote diagnostics, and much more.AI is rapidly transforming Teams into not just a collaboration tool, but a workplace operating system. This episode breaks down what's hype, what's here now, and what's just around the corner — with expert takes on every announcement.Connect with our hosts David Dungay and Tom Arbuthnot on socials here:David DungayLinkedInTwitterTom ArbuthnotLinkedInTwitterThanks for watching, if you'd like more content like this, don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel.You can also join in the conversation on our Twitter and LinkedIn pages.Join our new LinkedIn Community Group.
On this episode of Telecom Reseller news, Doug Green sits down with Zach Bennett, Microsoft Teams MVP and Principal Architect at LoopUp, a leading Cloud Telephony provider primarily concentrated on Microsoft Teams and the PSTN connectivity into Microsoft Teams via Direct Routing and Operator Connect. LoopUp enables multinational enterprises to consolidate their global telephony into one consistent vendor. Doug and Zach discuss how Teams Phone can be used as a full telephony replacement solution, how Direct Routing and Operator Connect can bring business telephony to the truly unified communications fold, the differences between Operator Connect, Direct Routing, and Calling Plans, and Microsoft's Copilot and how it can influence Teams telephony. Additionally, they discuss how larger enterprises can deal directly with LoopUp's expert in-house consultants and how LoopUp's channel program can help organizations looking to get into the Teams telephony market. To learn more about LoopUp you can visit https://loopup.com. You can also find LoopUp in the Microsoft Teams admin center under the Operator Connect section where you can see LoopUp's multinational coverage to find if LoopUp can fit with your business and help you consolidate your Teams telephony.
SkySwitch, the leading next-generation white-label UCaaS provider, announced today that it has launched a new option within their existing partner program, the Foundations program. The Foundations program offers all the benefits of its Wholesale program—a rock-solid UCaaS platform and technology with a wide range of features, backed by a team of experts, all delivered under the partners' brand—and additionally provides back-office support. See the podcast below. With the Foundations program, SkySwitch handles all the billing, taxation, and regulatory work while keeping the partner's brand front and center. By taking on the back-office tasks, it allows partners to focus on growing their brand and delivering communication solutions to their customers. The existing Wholesale program is still available for partners who have the resources and processes in place to manage the back-office billing, taxation, and regulatory tasks. Now partners have the option to choose the program that best suits their needs. “As a white-label provider, SkySwitch invests heavily in our partners' success. This goes beyond the product itself, and that's what the Foundations program is all about,” said David Hardy, General Manager of SkySwitch. “Not every partner has the desire, or bandwidth to manage these critical back-office and go-to-market functions. Having the option to outsource all that to the same partner that provides the underlying UCaaS technology can be a game-changer.” For more information about our new SkySwitch Foundations Partner Program, visit us at the Channel Partners Conference this week March 25-26 in Meeting Room 18 outside of the Expo Hall floor. ABOUT SKYSWITCH SkySwitch is the leading US-based white-label Unified Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS) provider offering MSPs, VARs, telecom agents, interconnect ISPs, and WISPs, a cloud-based voice platform to brand as their own. With a thorough on-boarding process, we educate you on everything you need to know to start selling the most in-demand solution for a hybrid workforce. SkySwitch is a BCM One company.
Audrey William is Principal Advisor at Ecosystm. She is based between Sydney, Australia and Singapore. Audrey has several areas of research focus, including the Future of Work, Unified Communications, Video and Collaboration, Contact Center, CX, Outsourcing and Conversational AI. Mark Hillary called Audrey to talk about AI in CX - in particular what is happening on the ground in pilots, which are the main tech vendors to watch, and what are the difficulties or blockers that some companies are experiencing - it's not always out-of-the-box! https://www.linkedin.com/in/audrey-william-3a4a04/ https://www.ecosystm.io/
This week on The Modern Customer Podcast, Damon Covey, General Manager of Unified Communications and Collaboration at GoTo, dives into how unified communication tools are elevating customer experience in modern contact centers. Damon shares how GoTo enables businesses to meet customers on their preferred channels—whether it's SMS, social media, or web chat—fostering deeper connections and creating seamless experiences. From simplifying IT operations to leveraging AI for faster agent onboarding and smarter workflows, GoTo equips businesses with the tools to deliver efficient and meaningful interactions. If you're looking to enhance customer experience and stay ahead in the evolving world of modern contact centers, this episode is a must-listen! Blake Morgan is a customer experience futurist, keynote speaker, and author of three books on customer experience. Her new book is called The 8 Laws of Customer-Focused Leadership: The New Rules for Building A Business Around Today's Customer.
Drowning in deadlines? Buried in emails? Juggling countless files? If this sounds all too familiar, you're not alone. In this episode, we dive deep into the tech solutions revolutionizing law firm management. Our guest, Ryan Anderson, co-founder of FileVine, shares his journey from overwhelmed attorney to tech innovator. Discover how his firsthand experience with the chaos of legal practice led to the creation of an AI-powered platform - File Vine. Now trusted by over 3,500 law firms, they process an incredible 208 cases per hour. Learn how AI can transform your practice. From automated demand letters to streamlined legal research, we explore cutting-edge tools that are redefining efficiency in the legal world. Whether you're a solo practitioner or managing a large firm, this episode is packed with insights to boost your productivity, enhance accuracy, and, ultimately, drive profitability. Get your PIMCON Ticket Today! Links Want to hear more from elite personal injury lawyers and industry-leading marketers? Follow us on social media for more. Rankings.io Instagram Chris Dreyer Instagram Rankings.io Twitter Rankings.io Website Ryan Anderson LinkedIn File Vine Website What's in This Episode: Who is Ryan Anderson? How AI-powered document management can revolutionize case organization and information retrieval, saving attorneys countless hours and reducing errors. Strategies for implementing data-driven performance management in law firms, using metrics to optimize operations and improve profitability. The importance of centralized communication systems in law firms and how they can enhance collaboration, reduce miscommunication, and improve client service. Past Guests Past guests on Personal Injury Mastermind: Brent Sibley, Sam Glover, Larry Nussbaum, Michael Mogill, Brian Chase, Jay Kelley, Alvaro Arauz, Eric Chaffin, Brian Panish, John Gomez, Sol Weiss, Matthew Dolman, Gabriel Levin, Seth Godin, David Craig, Pete Strom, John Ruhlin, Andrew Finkelstein, Harry Morton, Shay Rowbottom, Maria Monroy, Dave Thomas, Marc Anidjar, Bob Simon, Seth Price, John Gomez, Megan Hargroder, Brandon Yosha, Mike Mandell, Brett Sachs, Paul Faust, Jennifer Gore-Cuthbert Additional Episodes You Might Enjoy 80. Mike Papantonio, Levin, Papantonio, & Rafferty — Doing Well by Doing Good 84. Glen Lerner, Lerner and Rowe – A Steady Hand in a Shifting Industry 101. Pratik Shah, EsquireTek — Discovering the Power of Automation 134. Darryl Isaacs, Isaacs & Isaacs — The Hammer: Insights from a Marketing Legend 104. Taly Goody, Goody Law Group — Finding PI Clients on TikTok 63. Joe Fried, Fried Goldberg LLC — How To Become An Expert And Revolutionize Your PI Niche 96. Brian Dean, Backlinko — Becoming a Linkable Source 83. Seth Godin — Differentiation: How to Make Your Law Firm a Purple Cow 73. Neil Patel, Neil Patel — Digital A New Approach to Content and Emerging Marketing Channels