In today's rapidly evolving tech world, the rise of AI-generated code promises unprecedented speed, but it also comes with a hidden trap: unsustainable, brittle systems that collapse under complexity. In this TCAST episode, Alexander McCaig sits down with Gilad Shoham, the visionary behind Bit.dev and Hope AI, to unpack why 90% of AI code will fail unless developers fundamentally change their approach.

Shoham introduces the concept of composable programming—building software like Lego blocks rather than stitching fragile snippets together. By treating code as structured, reusable components rather than random lines, organizations can scale their development healthily and predictably. You'll discover how Hope AI redefines "code generation" as "code assembly," why traditional AI assistants are missing the mark, and how holistic code architecture can future-proof your projects. If you're serious about digital transformation and AI ethics, this is a must-listen conversation.

Internal:

• TARTLE Official Website

• TCAST Episodes on YouTube

External:

• Learn More About Bit.dev

• Bit.cloud - Hosting for Hope AI

• Composable Programming Overview (Harvard Business Review)

Related Episode:

Your Data Is Stalking You? Digital Privacy Deep Dive (TCAST episode)

 Want to future-proof your software against AI-driven chaos? Subscribe to TCAST now and explore the real way to scale responsibly with AI. Visit tartle.co for more insights and discover how to lead the future of ethical technology. Your innovation journey starts today—don’t miss it!

In this must-listen episode, Colin Graves from North Labs pulls back the curtain on how they're helping enterprises achieve tangible ROI in an astonishing 22 days. If you're struggling with slow digital transformation and want faster, smarter results from your big data and AI initiatives, this is for you. Don't miss Colin's expert insights and actionable strategies! Modern enterprises drown in fragmented systems, disjointed processes, and siloed analytics—resulting in wasted investments and failed data initiatives. Colin Graves, CEO of North Labs, joins Alexander McCaig to break down why most companies miss the mark: focusing too much on technology and ignoring the human and process elements.

North Labs' solution? A revolutionary approach centered on pre-built, industry-specific data models using techniques like Data Vault. This strategy dramatically cuts setup times and ensures insights in as little as 22 days—a staggering leap compared to traditional 12-month ROI timelines. Colin and Alexander dive into why foundational data unification must come before layering on AI or machine learning, how generative AI risks disastrous outcomes without holistic context, and why fast, tangible wins are critical to business buy-in.

Whether you're struggling with ERP chaos, bad data, or endless digital transformation promises, this conversation is your blueprint for operational excellence and data ROI at warp speed.

External Links

• North Labs Official Site

• Collin Graves Linekdin

Want real ROI—not empty promises? Subscribe to TCAST and learn how leaders like Collin Graves are flipping the script on digital transformation. Start unlocking real enterprise value today. Join our mission for ethical tech innovation—Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform!

Struggling with leadership chaos in the age of data? In this episode of TCAST, host Jason Rigby welcomes Will Watrous—entrepreneur, EOS implementer, and former stressed-out CEO. Will shares his journey from a health crisis during 173% company growth to clarity and focus through the EOS model. Discover how data-driven leadership, accountability, and clear roles can transform any organization. Whether you’re a tech leader or a data enthusiast, this episode offers actionable insights to optimize team performance, reduce stress, and achieve sustainable growth.

🎧 Tune in and master data-driven leadership with clarity.

🔗 Connect with Will Watrous:

• Official EOS Profile

• Will Watrous on LinkedIn

🌐 More Resources:

• TARTLE – Data Marketplace for Ethical Data Sharing

• EOS Worldwide – Official Site

• Traction by Gino Wickman – The book that changed Will’s life

• Death by Meeting – Patrick Lencioni

⏱️ Episode Timestamps: 00:01 – Stress Breakdown: Will’s 173% growth nearly breaks him. 01:27 – Health Wake-Up Call: How stress symptoms became a leadership turning point. 03:48 – Accountability Chart: Clear roles reduce chaos and confusion. 05:44 – Visionary vs. Integrator: Why Will had to stop doing it all. 08:09 – Clarity Brings Action: The discipline of weekly accountability. 10:37 – Level 10 Meetings: Elevating team conversations from a 3 to a 10. 13:29 – Six Key Components: The EOS framework that made it all work. 17:29 – The Power of Rocks: 90-day focus creates momentum.

💬 Notable Quotes: “Clarity brings action. Complexity kills it.” – Will Watrous “When the visionary and integrator align, the team unlocks peace and power.” “If it’s human, it’s mentionable. If it’s mentionable, it’s manageable.”

🔍 Keywords: data-driven leadership, EOS system, accountability, executive burnout, leadership transformation, team alignment, TCAST, data ethics, business optimization

📣 Call to Action: Overwhelmed by leadership chaos in your data-driven organization? It’s time to transform your approach. Subscribe to TCAST now for insights on leadership, data ethics, and technology’s impact on business. Discover more at TARTLE.co.

This episode features Mai Moore, a dynamic force in leadership and social impact, as she sits down with host Jason Rigby to explore her transition from a 26-year tech career—helping companies like TravelZoo and United Online go public—to founding EYEJ (Empowering Youth, Exploring Justice) and BossMe In. Mai’s story is one of courage, authenticity, and a relentless drive to bridge generational and cultural gaps, creating lasting change for underserved communities and corporate environments alike. She dives into the systemic challenges facing youth, the inefficiencies of traditional nonprofit boards, and the urgent need for intergenerational leadership as Millennials and Gen Z prepare to dominate the workforce by 2030.

Mai offers a masterclass in bold leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, humility, and action over endless theorizing. She challenges tech leaders to “open the door” for diverse voices—particularly women and underrepresented groups—by taking immediate, practical steps like inviting new perspectives into decision-making rooms. Her insights on bridging the digital divide, addressing toxic stress in youth, and fostering equity in corporate settings resonate with anyone looking to lead with purpose and impact. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders eager to evolve, connect, and empower in a rapidly changing world.

• 00:01 – Introduction to Mai Moore Jason introduces Mai, highlighting her bold leadership and social impact journey.

• 01:19 – From Tech to Social Impact Mai reflects on her 26-year tech career and the pivotal moment that sparked her shift to founding EYEJ.

• 05:06 – Systemic Issues and Nonprofits Discussion on why 27,000 nonprofits in Cleveland fail to address youth mental health and social inequities.

• 10:38 – Bridging Tech and Youth Leadership Mai explains how to connect underserved youth with tech opportunities and break the “white male Stanford” mold.

• 14:23 – BossMe In and Corporate Reform Introduction to BossMe In, focusing on intergenerational leadership and corporate change.

• 22:31 – Advice for Tech Leaders Mai urges leaders to act now—bring diversity into meetings and hire beyond silos.

• 30:57 – Inspiring the Next Generation Mai shares what excites her about young leaders and their demand for authenticity and harmony.

• 33:23 – Conversations with Tech Leaders Practical tips for tech executives: act fast, talk money openly, and understand who you serve.

• Mai Moore: “We need to embrace change, be authentic, and say, ‘I have no effing clue’ when we don’t know something—it’s about being human.”

• Mai Moore: “Just do it today. Bring someone to a meeting, hire someone for that role—stop overanalyzing and act.”

• Jason Rigby: “It’s so awesome to see somebody with courage and boldness also be positive—this is a tough task.”

• Mai Moore’s Website: maimoore.com – Learn more about Mai’s mission and book her for speaking engagements.

• EYEJ: eyej.org – Explore Mai’s nonprofit empowering youth for justice.

• BossMe In: Visit bossmein.com for insights on intergenerational leadership.

• Related Episode: “AI Ethics and Equity in Tech” – A TARTLE episode on fostering inclusion in technology.

• TARTLE Blog: “Monetizing Data for Social Good” – How data can drive impactful change.

Ready to lead with purpose and bridge worlds for change? Subscribe to the TARTLE podcast, leave a review, and visit tartle.co to join the movement for equity and empowerment. Connect with Mai Moore at maimoore.com to bring her bold insights to your next event!

The collapse of 23andMe is more than a business failure—it's a signal flare for every AI developer and tech executive. In this gripping episode of TCAST, Alexander McCaig and Jason Rigby dissect how a DNA data breach exposed over 7 million profiles and led to the unraveling of consumer trust. With 15 million users now at risk of having their most intimate genetic information auctioned off in bankruptcy court, the stakes for data privacy have never been higher.

The hosts unpack philosophical, legal, and technical perspectives: What does it mean to own your DNA? How does consent work when data outlives intent? Featuring insights from thinkers like John Locke and Luciano Floridi, and showcasing TARTLE’s decentralized model, this episode calls for an ethical reboot in how data is handled. Learn why centralized systems fail—and how TARTLE’s Data Vault Connect could've saved the day.

• 00:45 – Crisis Triggered: What the 23andMe bankruptcy means for tech.

• 04:20 – Genetic Ownership Debate: DNA as property or identity?

• 08:10 – Systemic Trust Failure: Consent debt and centralized vulnerabilities.

• 12:00 – The Gattaca Parallel: Profiling, prejudice, and dystopian AI futures.

• 17:35 – Zero-Debt Consent Model: TARTLE’s blueprint for data ethics.

• 21:00 – Data as a Renewable Resource: Lessons from natural ecosystems.

• 26:10 – Sovereign Nations & Data Wars: Who's buying your DNA?

• 30:25 – Final Challenge to Tech Leaders: Ethical design isn’t optional.

• “Your DNA on the auction block isn’t a sci-fi plot—it’s happening now.” – Jason Rigby

• “Centralized systems fail humans. Decentralized ones empower them.” – Alexander McCaig

• “Data isn’t just property—it’s an extension of you.” – Alexander McCaig

• TARTLE Platform – Explore decentralized data ownership

• 23andMe Data Breach Analysis (TARTLE Twitter)

• Books/Concepts: Luciano Floridi’s Informational Organisms, Helen Nissenbaum’s Contextual Integrity

• Learn More About TARTLE Data Vault Connect: https://2ly.link/23CeM

In this inspiring episode of the TCAS Podcast, host Jason Rigby sits down with Troy Plota to explore his incredible journey—from being kicked out of his home at 17 to building a multi-million-dollar digital empire. Troy shares pivotal moments in his career, his transition from traditional photography to AI-driven innovation, and how a negative experience with Apple fueled the creation of Plotaverse. The conversation dives deep into the role of AI in art, its risks and opportunities, and how Plotaverse is revolutionizing the creative landscape by putting artists first.

1. Troy’s Origin Story (00:01 - 03:24)

   • Troy reflects on his early life as a “surf rat” in Florida, where his passion for photography began despite his father’s skepticism about it as a career.

   • At 17, he left home with just a camera, kickstarting a lifelong journey as a fashion, advertising, and celebrity photographer.

   • A pivotal move to Miami and later Atlanta set the stage for his big break in the industry.

   • Key Quote: “I just picked up my camera and I’ve never had another job ever since.”

2. Breaking into the Big Leagues (01:22 - 03:24)

   • Troy recounts how he landed his first major opportunity by organizing portfolios for a modeling agency in Atlanta, leading to paid shoots and exposure to high-profile clients.

   • His work gained traction, eventually landing him features in GQ and a groundbreaking digital billboard in Times Square—the first shot with a digital camera.

   • Jason’s Insight: “You came in and started serving right off the bat… creating a ton of value.”

3. AI and the Future of Creativity (04:12 - 06:02)

   • Troy embraces AI as a “miracle” for creators, drawing parallels to the shift from film to digital photography.

   • He argues that AI enhances rather than diminishes human creativity, offering tools to bring stills to life and create films that were once impossible.

   • Currently collaborating with Ellen von Unwerth, Troy sees AI as a way to stay ahead of the curve.

   • Key Quote: “If you don’t embrace this, you’re going to be left behind.”

4. The Apple Betrayal and Plotaverse’s Birth (06:55 - 09:42)

   • Troy shares a challenging moment when Apple promoted his Plotograph app for the iPhone X launch, only to lowball him with an offer and fail to deliver promised exposure after a $6 million giveaway.

   • A competitor replicated his app, raking in hundreds of millions, but Troy turned the setback into motivation, building Plotaverse—a social platform for artists.

   • Positive Outcome: Plotaverse became the world’s first all-AI social platform, fueled by Troy’s resilience and vision.

   • Jason’s Take: “This is age-old—making a profit off an artist… there’s always this boogeyman behind them.”

5. Plotaverse: Empowering Artists (10:16 - 15:18)

   • Troy introduces Plotaverse as a customizable, artist-first platform where creators control their portfolios without algorithmic interference.

   • Features include pixel-shifting patents to authenticate work, multiple collections for diverse styles, and upcoming monetization tools.

   • Unlike Instagram’s 7.5% creator payout, Plotaverse reinvests a significant portion of ad revenue back into artists.

   • Key Quote: “I’ve designed the profile pages to be like your website… you dictate what goes first.”

6. Unexpected Uses of Plotaverse (12:14 - 13:34)

   • Troy shares surprising stories of Plotaverse’s impact, from helping people in hospitals combat depression to powering visuals at electronic music shows.

   • Highlight: “People would say, ‘I was in bed for months and literally addicted to your app… it saved my life.’”

7. Debunking AI Misconceptions (15:39 - 18:34)

   • Addressing fears that AI makes art “too easy,” Troy emphasizes the skill of prompting and the collaborative nature of AI creation.

   • He’s working to make AI tools more affordable and accessible, including open-source models.

   • Jason’s Insight: “Even the prompt… that should be monetized.”

8. The Next Decade of Art (20:11 - 23:19)

   • Troy predicts that AI will democratize filmmaking, enabling creators to produce feature films from their ideas without Hollywood budgets.

   • Dynamic digital displays will transform static art into moving, mood-setting pieces for homes and galleries.

   • Vision: “Things don’t have to be stationary anymore… it’s a combination of augmented reality and screens.”

9. Data Visualization and Beyond (23:19 - 25:51)

   • Jason highlights innovative uses of digital art, like oceanographic data visualizations, and Troy agrees that Plotaverse can amplify such work.

   • The platform supports photographers, videographers, and data artists alike, fostering a global, organic creative community.

   • Troy’s Take: “Art has always been about what it makes you feel… now it can move.”

10. Getting Started with Plotaverse (26:25 - 29:26)

    • Troy encourages new users to download the app, explore crisp, uncompressed imagery, and follow inspiring artists.

    • Pro features unlock after 50 posts or comments, making tools accessible globally.

    • A desktop version is in development, integrating top AI tools like Runway, Pika, and Stable Diffusion, with an Nvidia partnership for offline models.

    • Call to Action: “Go on, find some artists you love, and get inspired.”

• Download Plotaverse: Available on iOS and Android

• Follow Troy: @troyplota on X, @Troyplota on Plotaverse

• Learn More: plotaverse.com, troyplota.com

Plotagraph Pro: plotagraphpro.com

In this transformative episode, host Jason Rigby dives into introverted leadership with Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, PhD, bestselling author of The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength (Third Edition). The conversation explores how introverts can leverage their natural strengths—deep thinking, preparation, and engaged listening—to excel in today’s hybrid and remote work environments. Jennifer shares her proven 4 Ps framework (Prepare, Presence, Push, Practice), offering practical tools for navigating meetings, managing energy, and building meaningful connections without compromising authenticity.

The episode also tackles common misconceptions about introverts, such as their supposed dislike for people, and highlights surprising traits, like their passion when discussing beloved topics. Jennifer’s insights, drawn from decades of research and partnerships with organizations like Amazon and NASA, make this a must-listen for introverted leaders and their allies aiming to foster inclusive, high-performing workplaces. From networking hacks to creating introvert-friendly cultures, this episode delivers science-backed strategies with real-world impact.

• 00:01 – Introduction Jason shares his personal connection to The Introverted Leader and its impact on his leadership journey.

• 01:07 – Defining Quiet Strength Jennifer explains how introverts’ listening and reflection skills are powerful leadership assets.

• 02:44 – Busting Introvert Myths Debunking stereotypes that introverts are antisocial or unfit for leadership.

• 04:20 – Mastering Meetings Strategies like pre-meeting prep and structured facilitation to amplify introvert voices.

• 08:19 – Preparation as a Superpower How preparation builds confidence and earns respect in dynamic settings.

• 11:06 – Avoiding Burnout Tips for managing energy with time-blocking and proactive self-care.

• 13:43 – Balancing Engagement Encouraging introverts to stay connected without over-isolating remotely.

• 17:22 – Power of One-on-Ones Why introverts excel in deep, meaningful conversations and how to leverage them.

• 21:38 – Surprising Introvert Traits How introverts surprise others with passion on topics they love.

• 23:24 – Introvert-Friendly Workplaces Practical steps to create inclusive cultures that value quiet strengths.

• 27:43 – Extroverts as Allies How extroverted leaders can normalize and celebrate introversion.

• 32:10 – The 4 Ps Framework A deep dive into Prepare, Presence, Push, and Practice for leadership success.

• 50:06 – Closing Thoughts Jason and Jennifer reflect on the introvert revolution and its impact.

• “Introverts don’t dislike people—they just need time to recharge so they can show up fully.” – Jennifer B. Kahnweiler

• “Preparation is the introvert’s secret weapon; it frees you to be present and adapt.” – Jennifer B. Kahnweiler

• “Leadership isn’t about being the loudest—it’s about listening and acting with purpose.” – Jason Rigby

• Book: The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength (Third Edition) – Order on Amazon

• Website: JenniferKahnweiler.com

• Podcast: Introvert Ally by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler – Listen here

In this episode of TCAST, Jason Rigby sits down with music tech pioneer Nick Holmsten (formerly of Spotify) to explore the evolving landscape of music technology and fan engagement. They discuss the rise of personalized playlists, the ethical implications of data usage, and the potential of blockchain and AI to revolutionize artist-fan relationships. Learn how emerging artists can leverage technology to build a loyal fanbase and thrive in today's competitive music industry. [Primary Keyword: Music Technology and Fan Engagement]

Key Takeaways:

• Data is King: Discover how Spotify used machine learning to create personalized playlists and how this data-driven approach can benefit both artists and fans.
• The Fan Power Shift: Understand why fan engagement is more critical than ever and how artists can cultivate direct relationships with their audience.
• Blockchain's Potential: Explore how blockchain technology could disrupt traditional music industry models, offering greater transparency and control to artists.
• AI: Friend or Foe? Learn how AI can be a powerful tool for music creation and promotion, but why it shouldn't replace human artistry.
• Ethical Considerations: Dive into the importance of data transparency and responsible use of user information in the music industry.
• The Artist as a mini CEO: Artists have more control than ever.
• Find 1,000 Super Fans: It's never been a better time for artists.

Timestamps:

• 00:00: Introduction to Nick Holmsten and his groundbreaking work in the music industry. [Keyword: Music Industry Pioneer]
• 03:08: The Evolution of Personalized Playlists at Spotify: Behind the scenes of Spotify's algorithmic success. [Keyword: Personalized Playlists, Spotify Algorithm]
• 05:50: Balancing Act: How Spotify introduces emerging artists while catering to user preferences. [Keyword: Emerging Artists, Music Discovery]
• 09:08: The Power of the Fan: Why fan engagement is the new currency in the music industry. [Keyword: Fan Engagement, Music Marketing]
• 11:51: Blockchain Revolution: Exploring the potential of blockchain to transform artist-fan relationships and royalties. [Keyword: Blockchain Music, Music Royalties]
• 15:02: AI and Music: Discussing the role of AI in music creation, promotion, and the future of artistry. [Keyword: AI in Music, Music Production]
• 17:58: Ethics in the Spotlight: A deep dive into data transparency and ethical considerations in the music tech world. [Keyword: Data Ethics, Music Tech Ethics]
• 21:04: Building the Future: Nick Holmsten's vision for an ideal tech-driven music platform that empowers both artists and fans. [Keyword: Future of Music, Music Platform] Nicks Website: https://www.nickholmsten.com/

Join Alexander McCaig as he sits down with Michael Garfield, host of the Humans on the Loop podcast, evolutionary biologist, and former communications lead for the Santa Fe Institute. Together, they explore the intersection of technology, humanity, and the future of systems thinking in an engaging and thought-provoking conversation.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Michael’s Journey to Santa Fe:

   • From Austin, Texas, to working at the prestigious Santa Fe Institute.

   • The pivotal role of his sensitivity to ecological and cultural dynamics.

   • Challenges faced in navigating the politics of science and funding while promoting meaningful research.

2. The Power of Connecting Ideas and Communities:

   • Michael’s unique ability to connect disparate ideas and people into cohesive systems.

   • How his podcast, Humans on the Loop, fosters relationships over transactions.

3. Balancing Left and Right Hemispheric Thinking:

   • A deep dive into Ian McGilchrist’s work on hemispheric brain functions.

   • The importance of integrating goal-oriented thinking (left brain) with holistic pattern recognition (right brain).

   • Applications in technological design and the human search for meaning.

4. The Limitations of Current Technological Optimizations:

   • How hyper-specialization creates fragility in ecosystems and systems.

   • The historical shift from survival-based technology to productivity-focused systems that disconnect humanity from community and ethics.

5. Evolutionary Lessons for the Future of Humanity:

   • Insights from evolutionary biology and paleontology on how living systems adapt to crises.

   • Why generalists often thrive in periods of ecological collapse or market disruptions.

6. Reimagining Human Relationships with AI:

   • The role of AI in enhancing, not replacing, human intuition and decision-making.

   • Using technology to foster self-awareness and self-responsibility rather than perpetuating productivity traps.

7. Introducing the "Social Memory Complex":

   • Alexander’s vision for the future of TARTLE, starting with individual data vaults.

   • Building toward a global model where humanity can collectively leverage its shared knowledge and decision-making capabilities.

8. Rethinking Consent and Agency in Automation:

   • Exploring the dynamics of human interaction with automation: "in the loop," "on the loop," and "out of the loop."

   • How human agency can be redefined in the age of autonomous systems and decentralized technologies.

9. The Role of Complexity Science in Solving Global Challenges:

   • The need to move beyond one-dimensional thinking in science, economics, and governance.

   • Using complexity to bridge gaps between disparate disciplines and communities.

10. The Vision of Humans on the Loop:

• Why Michael chose the name and how the podcast explores the intersection of ethics, systems, and human agency.

• The importance of fostering conversations that address the constraints and possibilities of the future.

Memorable Quotes:

• "The problem isn’t desire—it’s that your desires are too small." – Michael Garfield

• "Technology should enhance responsibility for human thinking, not take its place." – Alexander McCaig

• "The more you know, the less you know relative to what exists." – Michael Garfield

Resources Mentioned:

• Humans on the Loop Podcast: Visit Website

Connect with Michael Garfield:

• Website: Michael Garfield

• Podcast: Humans on the Loop

Connect with Alexander McCaig & TARTLE:

• Website: TARTLE.co

• Schedule a Demo: Learn More About TARTLE

Takeaways for Listeners: This episode challenges us to think critically about our relationship with technology, the decisions we make as individuals, and the role we play in shaping the collective future of humanity. It’s a call to embrace complexity, seek relationships over transactions, and engage in deeper self-reflection to unlock humanity’s true potential.