Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM 

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/692

When organizations rush to adopt AI tools like Microsoft Copilot, they often overlook a critical prerequisite: a secure, well-structured data environment. In this episode, Åsne Holtklimpen—Cloud Solution Architect at Crayon and Microsoft MVP—shares how her journey from SharePoint veteran to Copilot expert revealed a hard truth: without strong information governance, AI can do more harm than good. Åsne walks us through real-world challenges, practical frameworks, and the mindset shift needed to make AI adoption safe, scalable, and truly transformative.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Security Before AI: Successful Copilot implementation starts with robust information security—classification, labeling, and governance must come first.
Start Small, Scale Smart: Åsne recommends a phased approach using Microsoft Purview, beginning with basic data classification before layering on policies and automation.
Expose the Risks: Demonstrating real data exposure—like personal identity numbers or health info—helps organizations understand the urgency of securing their environments.
AI Readiness ≠ Cloud Presence: Many companies assume they’re ready for AI because they use Teams or SharePoint, but Åsne stresses the need for deeper structural alignment.
Public Sector Pressure: Norway’s public sector faces a mandate to adopt AI by 2030, but Åsne warns that without guidance and foundational readiness, this push could backfire.
 
RESOURCES MENTIONED
👉 Microsoft Purview – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business/information-protection/microsoft-purview
👉 Microsoft Copilot – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/copilot
👉 Microsoft Entra – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/business/identity-access/microsoft-entra
👉 Microsoft Intune – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/enterprise-mobility-security/microsoft-intune
👉 Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzf0yupPbVkqdRJDPVE4PtTlm6quDhiu7

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/691   

What happens when cybercrime becomes as organized—and profitable—as a Fortune 500 company? In this episode, Louis Arthur-Brown, a cybersecurity leader and solutions partner at CodeStone, pulls back the curtain on the evolving threat landscape. From ransomware-as-a-service to deepfake deception, Louis shares real-world insights and practical strategies for defending your organization in an AI-accelerated world. Whether you're a tech leader or a curious professional, this conversation will sharpen your security instincts and help you build resilience where it matters most.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Cybercrime is industrialized: Ransomware-as-a-service and affiliate models make it easy for anyone—even non-technical actors—to launch attacks for as little as $50.
AI is amplifying threats: A 1,300% rise in phishing emails last year is just the beginning. Deepfakes and voice cloning are reshaping social engineering tactics.
MFA and basic hygiene go a long way: Implementing multi-factor authentication and conditional access can block up to 92% of cyberattacks.
Zero Trust is essential: Organizations must move beyond the “walled garden” mindset and adopt a “never trust, always verify” approach to access and data.
Data strategy is security strategy: Tools like Microsoft Purview and Windows 365 help classify, protect, and monitor sensitive data—especially in AI-enabled environments.
 
RESOURCES MENTIONED
👉Microsoft Purview – https://www.microsoft.com/security/business/information-protection/purview
👉Windows 365 –  https://www.microsoft.com/windows-365
👉Microsoft Sentinel – https://azure.microsoft.com/products/microsoft-sentinel 

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/690   
 
What does it take to rise from limited access to tech resources to becoming a globally recognized Microsoft MVP? In this episode, Pascal Burume shares his remarkable journey from the Democratic Republic of Congo to the global tech stage. With grit, community leadership, and a passion for Microsoft technologies, Pascal reveals how he overcame language barriers, built impactful solutions with Power Platform, and inspired a new generation of tech professionals. If you're looking for a roadmap to grow your skills and make a difference—no matter where you start—this episode is for you. 

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Persistence Pays Off: Pascal failed multiple times before becoming a Microsoft Student Ambassador—but each setback sharpened his strategy and resilience.
Power Platform in Action: He used Power Apps and Power BI to build real-world solutions that improved decision-making at the UNDP.
Community as a Catalyst: Building and leading tech communities helped Pascal grow his skills, visibility, and impact.
Learning Without Limits: Despite infrastructure challenges, Pascal leveraged blogs, Microsoft Learn, and open-source tools to stay ahead.
From Local to Global: His story proves that with the right mindset and tools, you can build a global tech career from anywhere. 

RESOURCES MENTIONED
👉 Microsoft Learn Student Ambassadors: https://studentambassadors.microsoft.com
👉 Microsoft Learn: https://learn.microsoft.com
👉 Power Platform: https://powerplatform.microsoft.com 

OTHER RESOURCES
👉 Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzf0yupPbVkqdRJDPVE4PtTlm6quDhiu7 

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM 

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/689 

In a world where AI is reshaping how we build, lead, and learn, standing still is no longer an option. In this episode, the Ecosystem Show team dives into the evolving role of Microsoft partners, the rise of “vibe coding,” and the critical mindsets needed to thrive in tech’s next chapter. Whether you're navigating AI adoption, rethinking your Power Platform strategy, or simply trying to stay relevant in a fast-changing landscape, this conversation offers clarity, challenge, and a roadmap forward.
 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
AI demands new mental models: Success in the AI era requires critical thinking, constant learning, and a willingness to challenge assumptions—even those served up by machines.
Power Platform is evolving fast: It’s no longer just low-code—it’s becoming the enterprise-grade “vibe coding” platform, integrating seamlessly with advanced tools and governance systems.
Trustworthy AI is non-negotiable: Leaders must embed safety, transparency, and validation into every AI practice. Microsoft’s internal frameworks offer a strong starting point.
The partner landscape is shifting: The best Microsoft partners are transforming their culture, offerings, and delivery models to meet the demands of AI-native enterprises.
Your career is your responsibility: In a time of layoffs and disruption, professionals must take ownership of their growth by developing adaptive, future-focused mindsets. 

RESOURCES MENTIONED
👉 Dynamics Minds Conference – https://dynamicsminds.com
👉 Forrester Wave Report – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/power-platform/blog/power-apps/microsoft-is-a-leader-in-2025-forrester-wave-low-code-platforms-for-professional-developers/
👉 Microsoft's Trustworthy AI Framework – https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/ai-foundry/responsible-use-of-ai-overview  

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/688

What happens when AI stops being a tool and starts becoming a teammate? In this episode, Ashish Bhatia, Principal Product Manager at Microsoft, unpacks the shift from traditional automation to intelligent agents—and what it means for the future of work. From the myth of “autonomous agents” to the real-world challenges of memory, trust, and productivity, this conversation dives deep into the evolving landscape of AI. Whether you're building with Copilot or planning your next AI strategy, this episode will sharpen your perspective on where the tech is headed—and what’s still missing.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Agentification is the next evolution of apps: We're moving from reactive chatbots to proactive assistants that can take meaningful action—but we’re still early in that journey.
Memory is the missing link: Long-term context retention is essential for agents to become truly useful. Expect major strides in this area by 2025.
Autonomous agents are still a myth: Most current “agents” are glorified automations. True autonomy requires reasoning, adaptability, and trust.
Model selection will soon be invisible: Expect model routing to become standard, optimizing for cost and performance without user intervention.
AI isn’t saving time—yet: While AI boosts output quality, it still requires human oversight. The next leap is reducing the need for constant review. 

RESOURCES MENTIONED
👉 AI Podcasts  
The Wes Roth Podcast – https://www.youtube.com/@WesRoth
AI Explained – https://aiexplainedopodcast.buzzsprout.com/2418777 
Training Data – https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLOhHNjZItNnMm5tdW61JpnyxeYH5NDDx8 

👉 Tools & Concepts:
Copilot Studio – https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-copilot-studio/fundamentals-what-is-copilot-studio 
Operator Model – https://openai.com/index/introducing-operator/

👉 Ashish Bhatia's GitHub: https://github.com/ashbhati

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM 

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/687
 
What happens when a finance professional clicks a mysterious purple icon in Excel and discovers a whole new world? For Mate Tóth, that moment sparked a journey from spreadsheets to becoming a Microsoft MVP. In this episode, Mate shares how curiosity, community, and a passion for learning transformed his career. From building his first Power App in production to leading Hungary’s Power Platform user group, Mate’s story is a masterclass in grassroots tech leadership and the power of showing up.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
Start Small, Think Big: Mate’s Power Platform journey began with a single Excel task—proof that big transformations often start with small curiosities.
Community as a Catalyst: His involvement in Toastmasters and local tech groups helped him grow as a speaker and leader, eventually leading to his MVP nomination.
Localization Matters: Language barriers and cultural nuances shape tech adoption—Mate shares how he’s bridging gaps in Hungary’s tech scene.
AI with Purpose: While enthusiastic about AI, Mate emphasizes ethical considerations and the importance of understanding each model’s strengths.
From Goals to Impact: Ironically, Mate became an MVP the year he stopped chasing the title and focused solely on helping others. 

RESOURCES MENTIONED
👉Microsoft Learn - https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/
👉Toastmasters International -  https://www.linkedin.com/company/sz%C3%B3da-toastmasters-klub-budapest/
👉Midjourney - https://www.midjourney.com/

OTHER RESOURCES:
👉Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzf0yupPbVkqdRJDPVE4PtTlm6quDhiu7

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/686  

Simon Hudson shares his fascinating journey from medical device inventor to tech entrepreneur, exploring how information architecture transformed his approach to SharePoint, Teams, and AI ethics.

TAKEAWAYS
• Started his career in physics and medical devices, developing two patents for chronic wound dressings
• Founded Cloud2 and developed Hadron, possibly the first SharePoint-based "intranet in a box" solution
• Recognized that 90% of organizational information needs are the same across companies
• Initially skeptical about Teams but had a "road to Damascus moment" when realizing its potential for structuring collaboration
• Companies that adopted his Teams approach transitioned seamlessly during the pandemic
• Believes AI won't eliminate jobs overall but will disadvantage those who don't learn to use it
• Working on how to build ethics directly into AI rather than just creating guardrails around it
• Concerned about AI agents making autonomous decisions without proper moral frameworks
• Sees data quality as a critical challenge for effective AI implementation in organizations
• Envisions personal AI "doppelgangers" that can handle routine tasks while embodying our ethical frameworks

Listen now to explore how information architecture might just be the key to more ethical, efficient, and empowering technology. 

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/685  

What happens when you've witnessed artificial intelligence evolve from academic skepticism to world-changing technology? Bill, Technical Director at Flow Simulation and Microsoft MVP since 2018, takes us through his remarkable 30-year journey working with computers and AI systems since the 1990s.

TAKEAWAYS
• First awarded MVP in 2018
• Regularly speaks at international conferences about Microsoft 365, AI and Azure
• Started with expert systems in the 1990s when neural networks temporarily fell out of favor
• Witnessed the breakthrough of transformer architecture that revolutionized language models
• Traces the evolution from GPT-2 through ChatGPT to today's multimodal models
• Discusses potential future directions including copyright concerns and AI self-improvement
• Values GitHub Copilot as a practical time-saving tool that amplifies productivity
• Appreciates MVP program benefits including direct access to Microsoft product teams
• Values the MVP community connections with technically-minded professionals worldwide

For anyone navigating today's AI-powered world, Bill's experienced voice offers invaluable context that connects past developments to our possible futures. 

OTHER RESOURCES:
👉 Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzf0yupPbVkqdRJDPVE4PtTlm6quDhiu7 

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM 

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/684 

The technological landscape is shifting beneath our feet, and those who fail to adapt risk being left behind. This stark reality forms the backbone of our latest episode, where we explore the concept that "AI is coming for the unmotivated" - perhaps the most crucial wake-up call of our professional generation.

TAKEAWAYS
• Recent experiences at ColorCloud event in Hamburg and during Spain's massive power outage
• Chris announces his new role at Cloud Lighthouse and ANS
• Microsoft Build conference schedule reveals heavy emphasis on AI with minimal business apps content
• The rise of "digital workforce" as a concept at major tech companies
• "AI is coming for the unmotivated" - why continuous learning is crucial for survival
• How an entire app was built using only AI prompts during a recent prompt-a-thon
• The concept of "information communism" illustrated through a real-world translation service example
• How professionals resist technological change rather than adapting their business models
• The need for "tragic imagination" to honestly confront the challenges ahead
• Why mundane, repetitive jobs will be the first to be replaced by digital workers

Don't hesitate to share your perspective with us. Stay connected for more innovative ideas and strategies to enhance your software estate. Until next time, keep pushing the boundaries and creating value.

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM 

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/683

Danielle Moon shares her journey founding Women in Power, a community that grew from noticing just eight women among 80 professionals at a Microsoft event to a thriving global network of 930+ members in less than a year.

TAKEAWAYS
• Starting with vulnerability and a "just start" mentality rather than waiting for perfect conditions
• Building a community focused on connecting women across geographical boundaries who often experience isolation in their tech teams
• Creating mentoring rings, skill-building opportunities, and networking events worldwide
• Addressing the tendency for women to operate as "lone wolves" rather than leveraging collective strength
• Evolving beyond the Power Platform to emphasize soft skills that remain valuable in an AI-centered world
• Encouraging cross-learning between technical experts and those with relationship-building strengths
• Celebrating small victories while aiming for world domination

Whether you're a Power Platform professional seeking community or someone interested in building more inclusive tech spaces, this conversation offers valuable insights on creating tables where everyone can thrive. How might you apply these community-building principles in your professional sphere?

OTHER RESOURCES:
👉Women in Power (Platform): https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14423833/  

This year we're adding a new show to our line up - The AI Advantage. We'll discuss the skills you need to thrive in an AI-enabled world.

DynamicsMinds is a world-class event in Slovenia that brings together Microsoft product managers, industry leaders, and dedicated users to explore the latest in Microsoft Dynamics 365, the Power Platform, and Copilot.

Early bird tickets are on sale now and listeners of the Microsoft Innovation Podcast get 10% off with the code MIPVIP144bff 
https://www.dynamicsminds.com/register/?voucher=MIPVIP144bff

Accelerate your Microsoft career with the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge 

We’ve helped 1,300+ people across 70+ countries establish successful careers in the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365 ecosystem.

Benefit from expert guidance, a supportive community, and a clear career roadmap. A lot can change in 90 days, get started today!

Support the show

If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith