Inspiring Tech Leaders - AI & Technology Strategy

I'm excited to present the latest Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast episode, where we dive deep into software engineering interviews and effective interview preparation with Mike Mroczka.

Mike, a former software engineer at Google and Salesforce, is the best-selling author behind 'Cracking the Coding Interview' and the highly anticipated sequel, 'Beyond Cracking the Coding Interview.'

In this insightful conversation, Mike shares his transition from engineering to interview coaching, and offers proven strategies to excel in software engineering interviews.

Whether you are just starting your tech career or aiming for your next big role, you will gain actionable tips and a fresh perspective on interview preparation. Don’t miss this chance to learn from an industry expert and boost your confidence for your next interview!

Listen to the full episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts to hear Mike's #1 piece of advice for software engineers at any career stage.

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

Are you building a fortress while hackers are finding the back door?

In the latest episode of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast, I take a closer look at Red Teams, Blue Teams, and the increasingly vital Purple Teams that are reshaping cybersecurity strategy for forward-thinking organisations.

As a CIO or CISO, you are not just protecting assets, you are safeguarding your company's future.  But here is the question that keeps many of us up at night - Are we testing our defences the way real attackers would?

Red Teams think like hackers, probing your networks and exploiting vulnerabilities before the real attackers do.  Blue Teams build the walls, monitor the gates, and respond when threats emerge.  But the real value is created when these teams collaborate as Purple Teams and create a continuous feedback loop that transforms your security posture.

It's not just about technology, it's about people, processes, and breaking down silos within your security organisation.

Your Red Team tests your weaknesses. Your Blue Team defends your strengths. Your Purple Team makes both sides smarter!

Curious about implementing this approach in your organisation?  Listen to the full episode where I explore practical strategies for tech leaders navigating today's cyber battlefield.

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

In the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence, understanding the nuances between various AI assistants is crucial for technology professionals.

In this episode of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast, I review a number of prominent AI tools, offering insights into their unique strengths, limitations, and optimal applications.

The comparison of AI tools included:

💡 Anthropic Claude: Known for its strong emphasis on ethical alignment, safety, and constitutional AI.
💡 OpenAI ChatGPT: Highly versatile with seamless integration for code interpretation, browsing, and DALL-E image generation.
💡 Google Gemini: Backed by DeepMind and deeply integrated into the Google Workspace ecosystem. Excels at data extraction, web summarisation, and providing real-time information.
💡 Microsoft Copilot: Essentially OpenAI's models embedded within Microsoft 365 applications.
💡 DeepSeek: A Chinese-developed model gaining traction for coding and technical reasoning.
💡 Perplexity AI: More of an AI-powered search engine than a traditional chatbot, focusing on real-time knowledge with citations.
💡 Manus AI: A newer entrant, currently in beta but with impressive capabilities.

Which AI Tool should you use? Tune-in to learn more and decide for yourself.

Link to the full Manus review episode - https://www.buzzsprout.com/1702192/episodes/16920742

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

The recent wave of sophisticated cyber attacks targeting iconic UK brands like Marks & Spencer, Co-Op, and Harrods serves as a stark wake-up call for all technology professionals.  Ransomware groups like DragonForce, operating via a concerning Ransomware-as-a-Service model, have exposed critical vulnerabilities, causing millions in damages and severe operational disruption.

These incidents are not just headlines, they are urgent case studies highlighting the real-world impact of evolving cyber threats.  How prepared is your organisation?  What are the crucial leadership lessons when facing such a crisis?  Is cybersecurity truly integrated into your core business strategy, or is it still treated as a siloed IT issue?

In the latest episode of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast, I explore and analyse these attacks and consider the following:

💡 The tactics used by groups like DragonForce and their affiliates.

💡 The specific impacts on retail operations and market value.

💡 Why the retail sector is such an attractive target.

💡 Critical steps for leadership in incident containment and response.

💡 The strategic importance of robust cybersecurity readiness.

This is not just about retail, the lessons apply across all industries.  Don't wait for a crisis to hit.  Equip yourself with the insights needed to navigate the complex cybersecurity landscape.

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

This episode of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast features an insightful conversation with Romy Tuin, Foundry's Global Director of Events Content, and Mitch Islin, Head of IT & InfoSec at MOTORS and NextCIO 2024 cohort member.

We discuss the innovative NextCIO programme and how it is a career-defining initiative that is shaping the future of tech leadership.

In this episode, we explore:

💡The origins and vision behind Foundry's NextCIO programme

💡Mitch's transformative journey as a NextCIO participant

💡Emerging trends in IT leadership from the 2024 cohort

💡Essential advice for aspiring NextCIO applicants

💡How NextCIO builds powerful professional networks

As a mentor and judge for the programme, I have witnessed firsthand how NextCIO identifies and nurtures exceptional IT talent.  This episode offers invaluable insights for technology professionals looking to advance their leadership careers.

Listen now to discover what it takes to become part of the next generation of technology leaders!

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

In this week’s episode of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast, I’m joined by Glenn Hapgood and Charmaine Baker, the co-founders and co-CEOs of CXO Portals.  CXO Portals is an innovative events company dedicated to creating meaningful, engaging experiences for senior leaders, businesses, and partners.

We explore their inspiring journey around building a purpose-driven business that champions authentic networking and impactful conversations.

In this episode, we discuss:
💡 What inspired Glenn and Charmaine to start CXO Portals
💡 How their professional backgrounds shaped the company’s vision
💡 The challenges they faced launching the business
💡 How CXO Portals is redefining executive networking
💡 And what the future holds for this exciting venture

It was an absolute pleasure having Glenn and Charmaine on the show. Their passion for building ethical, people-focused experiences truly shines through.

Tune in now to hear how CXO Portals is helping senior leaders connect, learn, and grow.

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

New US-China tariffs are reshaping IT budgets, supply chains, and the global technology landscape.

In this week’s episode of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast, I dive into how global tariffs are impacting the tech sector, from hardware and cloud to AI and digital transformation.

Topics discussed include:
💡 The latest 145% US tariffs and China’s 125% retaliation
💡 Exemptions for tech giants (and what they really mean)
💡 The ripple effect on semiconductors, cloud costs, and Windows 11 migrations
💡 Practical steps IT leaders can take now to protect budgets and build resilience

These shifts go far beyond geopolitics, they are strategic challenges for every CIO, CTO, and IT decision-maker.

Tune in to get the insights you need to navigate uncertainty and lead with confidence.

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

I’m excited to kick off a brand-new season of the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast!

Over the past four seasons, I’ve explored the breakthroughs shaping our digital world, and this season, I hope to go even further.  Expect fresh perspectives, insightful conversations, and the latest in tech leadership and innovation.

This latest episode is hopefully not going to disappoint!  A few weeks ago, I covered the launch of Manus AI, a general AI agent developed by Butterfly Effect, and since then I’ve been given private beta access to test it first-hand.

In this episode, I share:
💡 My honest experience using Manus AI
💡 How it stacks up against ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude
💡 Where it shines and where it falls short
💡 What it means for the future of AI-powered productivity

Manus isn’t just another chatbot.  It acts like a self-sufficient intern conducting research, planning, and executing tasks autonomously.  I tested it on everything from SEO optimisation to generating slide decks, and even complex policy documents.  Some results were truly impressive.

But it’s not all smooth sailing.  There are questions about data privacy, pricing, and stability.  So, I dive into the good, the bad, and the potential.

Is Manus AI the future of autonomous agents?  Tune in and decide for yourself. If you enjoy it, please like, comment, share, and don’t forget to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

The AI landscape is shifting fast.  In just a matter of days, Elon Musk has made two massive strategic moves that could reshape the tech industry!

xAI Joins the AI Infrastructure Partnership (AIP) – Backed by Microsoft, Nvidia, BlackRock, and other major players, this consortium aims to raise up to $100 billion to fund the next generation of AI data centres and energy infrastructure.

And

xAI Acquires X (formerly Twitter) in a $113 Billion Deal.  This sees a merging of AI development with a global social media platform as Musk is consolidating data, compute, and distribution into one ecosystem.

In this episode of Inspiring Tech Leaders, I will discuss the following:

💡 The enormous capital being mobilized for AI infrastructure

💡 The technical and environmental challenges behind Musk’s AI ambitions

💡 Whether xAI can truly compete with OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft

💡 How governments and regulators might respond to these massive AI power plays

 Musk is making big bets.  Will they pay off?  Or is he spreading himself too thin?

What are your thoughts?  Can xAI become a real AI powerhouse?

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com

AI chatbots are becoming essential tools for work, study, and everyday problem-solving.  But with so many options available, which one should you trust?

In the latest episode of Inspiring Tech Leaders, I dive deep into the battle between ChatGPT and Google Gemini, comparing their features, strengths, weaknesses, and best use cases.

ChatGPT (GPT-4o): Great for writing, brainstorming, and coding assistance. It’s flexible, confident, and doesn’t require a login to use.

Google Gemini (2.0 Flash/Pro): Stronger Google Search integration, built-in image generation (even in free plans), and better for longer context conversations.

Key Differences:

💡 Ease of Access: ChatGPT works without login; Gemini requires a Google account.

💡 Up-to-Date Info: Gemini connects better with Google Search, while ChatGPT provides more open-ended reasoning.

💡 Image Generation: Free in Gemini but only available in paid ChatGPT plans.

💡 Paid Plans: ChatGPT Plus ($20/month) vs. Gemini Advanced ($19/month with annual commitment).

💡 Coding Assistance: ChatGPT explains and debugs well, while Gemini generates code efficiently (but both can make errors).

So, which one is right for you?  Tune in now to get the full breakdown and decide which AI assistant best fits your needs!

Which AI chatbot do you prefer; ChatGPT, Gemini, or another AI assistant?  Let me know in the comments!

Send me a message

Start building your thought leadership portfolio today with INSPO.  Wherever you are in your professional journey, whether you're just starting out or well established, you have knowledge, experience, and perspectives worth sharing. Showcase your thinking, connect through ideas, and make your voice part of something bigger at INSPO - https://www.inspo.expert/

Support the show

I’m truly honoured that the Inspiring Tech Leaders podcast is now reaching listeners in over 125 countries and 1,925+ cities worldwide. Thank you for your continued support!  If you’d enjoyed the podcast, please leave a review and subscribe to ensure you're notified about future episodes.

For further information visit - 

https://priceroberts.com/Podcast/

https://priceroberts.com

www.inspiringtechleaders.com