IT in the D

This week, Bob chatted with James, Norm, and Heidi from Penguicon. The discussion covers an introduction of Penguicon—an open-source and sci-fi (and more!) convention, favorite memories from Penguicons past (the '80s parties we hosted kicked ass!), and what's coming up for Penguicon.

Unfortunately, there will not be a Penguicon 2025. Instead, there will be a smaller event held this year to raise funds to make Penguicon 2026 the best it can be. That event is The Underground Masquerade, a formal masquerade fundraiser gala, held on May 17, 2025 at Laurel Manor in Livonia. Tickets start at $150.

In this episode, Bob and Randy discuss the power of networking and career growth with guests Steve York, CIO of 1-800-HANSONS, and Matt Spivey, CTO of Renodis.

The conversation spans their career journeys, the significance of mentorship, and best practices for climbing the career ladder. The conversation also highlights charitable initiatives such as SIM Detroit's Michigan Technology Leaders Spring Summit, CIOs against Cancer, and Team RWB, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. Additionally, the episode delves into the current landscape of AI in the IT industry, with Steve and Matt sharing insights on its evolving role and practical applications.

Brad Mitchell, president of MojoHost, joins us this week. Brad was Bob's first client way back in the day. In addition to catching up and reminiscing, we talk about building a data center, the changes over the years, and what it's like running one now.

We're back in-studio! Joining Bob & Randy this week was Melinda Ann O'Neill, Director of Sales at Tanium. She was actually on the show all the way back on episode 15! We talk about her journey in to IT sales, being a woman in tech, leading the Michigan Chapter for the Alliance of Channel Women, and her experience donating a kidney.

We made it to 500! In this episode, Bob and Randy reminisce with former cohosts Jeff and Nuri and regular guest Jer.

Jer Staes of Daily Detroit is back! We start off talking about Thanksgiving leftovers. Then, we get into how Daily Detroit is doing--the podcast is approaching 1600 episodes!

What's up in Detroit?

The RenCen—at least part of it, but maybe all of it—is coming down soon. Jefferson Avenue is going to be rebuilt and the Detroit riverfront is leveling up.

The Post Bar is reopening. Bob used to DJ there!

Detroit needs more residents and more housing to put people in.

In this episode, Bob and Randy talk to RM Easterly, the founder of THYIM, an app focused on providing on-demand, everyday task services. RM shares insights on how the app fills unique market needs by offering practical services like roadside assistance, spider removal, and more, all within a user's 15-minute radius. We talk about her entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind THYIM, and the app's commitment to safety and affordability. RM also talks about her interesting dietary preferences.

In this episode, we chat with Mel Kolinski, Director of Channel Development at Ostra and an Co-Moderator for the Minnesota Chapter of the Alliance of Channel Women (ACW). The conversation highlights the importance of networking, mentorship, and leadership development for women in tech. Mel discusses her involvement with ACW and the initiatives they offer, including mentorship circles and leadership programs. The discussion also touches upon the need for honesty and transparency in the cybersecurity industry, as endorsed by the Truth in Cyber foundation. The episode encapsulates the journey and challenges women face in the tech sector and emphasizes the role of male allyship in fostering an inclusive environment.

Bob and Randy welcome guest Holly Owen, a former Detroiter turned New Orleans resident and author. Holly shares her experiences moving from Detroit to Boston and eventually to New Orleans, where she found inspiration to write her book Quit Playing Yourself during the pandemic. This episode Holly's journey of transitioning from real estate to Airbnb management and interior design in New Orleans, ultimately leading to her foray into writing. Holly discusses the challenges and insights gained in publishing her book, which combines art and relationship advice through an eclectic mix of photography and quotes. The episode delves into the creative process, the difficulties faced in self-publishing, and the impact of her work on readers. Additionally, the conversation touches on various personal stories, reflections on different places, and shared interests in media and entertainment.