The Intelligence Age

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/606

Prepare yourself for an eye-opening exploration as we uncover why cybercrime could be the world's third-largest economy. Tune in to hear Ana, Andrew, William, and Chris's exhilaration over Trevor Noah's enlightening talk and Vasu Jakal's captivating cybersecurity panel, where we unravel the staggering statistic of 4,000 cyberattacks per second. Discover the vital importance of zero trust policies and proactive security measures in a world where AI-driven threats are ever-evolving.

Imagine a future where AI agents handle tasks with the finesse of seasoned travel experts. Our latest discussion takes you through the evolution of AI from basic automation to the sophisticated orchestration of agents capable of independent action. We dive into the importance of data accuracy to prevent chaos and highlight the potential of orchestrators and agent chaining as powerful tools for optimizing intelligent systems, transforming the way we work.

As we navigate the complex waters of Responsible AI, we focus on balancing technology with ethical practices and human elements. Learn about the implementation of Responsible AI waivers and tools like Co-pilot Studio that manage liability and ethical AI deployment. Join us as we contemplate the challenges of managing personal data, the rise of deepfakes, and the broader implications of AI through insights from Kai-Fu Lee's "AI 2041." Our conversation wraps up with a call for feedback and innovation to enhance software estate value, inviting you to be a part of this transformative journey.

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/605

What parallels can be drawn between marathon training and strategic implementation in a corporate setting? Join us as we unravel this intriguing correlation through the remarkable story of James Connelly, the Power Platform Technical Lead at Network Rail. James opens up about his journey from overcoming a severe head injury in 2021 to participating in the London Marathon for Headway, a brain injury charity. His narrative is one of perseverance and balance, blending a passion for health and fitness with a love for social activities. From savoring the best chicken wings at Chicken George to enjoying trips to Ibiza, James's personal story is both inspiring and relatable. 

In our conversation, we delve into the world of Network Rail and its integration with the Power Platform, particularly accelerated by the pandemic. James provides insights into managing strategy, governance, and security, emphasizing the importance of proper governance and community building. Discover how Network Rail has empowered its internal makers and developed skilled low-code developers through apprenticeship schemes. Whether you're interested in the technical aspects of the Power Platform or personal tales of resilience, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiration for all listeners.

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES 
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/604 

Ever wondered how to successfully juggle a demanding career, freelancing gigs, and personal passions? Join us as we sit down with Marko Totovic, a Partner Technology Strategist from Serbia, who not only excels in his role at Companial but also manages to be an MVP in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform community. Marco shares the secret sauce to balancing his professional and personal lives, including his love for tennis, guitar, and Serbian cuisine. His journey is a masterclass in multitasking, proving that you can indeed have it all without compromising on quality or commitment.  

Ever wondered how to successfully juggle a demanding career, freelancing gigs, and personal passions? Join us as we sit down with Marko Totovic, a Partner Technology Strategist from Serbia, who not only excels in his role at Companial but also manages to be an MVP in the Dynamics 365 and Power Platform community. Marco shares the secret sauce to balancing his professional and personal lives, including his love for tennis, guitar, and Serbian cuisine. His journey is a masterclass in multitasking, proving that you can indeed have it all without compromising on quality or commitment. 

Gain insight into the path of becoming an MVP, where Marco offers a transparent look into the ecosystem of freelancing in the Power Platform and Dynamics 365 space. From the joys of sharing knowledge at global conferences to the crucial importance of being upfront about your capabilities, Marco's experiences are both enlightening and inspiring. Whether you're looking to enhance your career, navigate the complexities of freelancing, or simply find better balance in your life, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world stories that promise to resonate deeply with our listeners. 

OTHER RESOURCES:
Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP
90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/603

What if you could personally message high-level Microsoft employees at a conference? Join us on an exciting journey as we gear up for our much-anticipated Vegas conference. We’ll explore the humorous contrasts between colleagues' online personas and their real-life appearances, and the cultural nuances in communication styles, from the bluntness of Eastern European interactions to the English penchant for politeness. Get ready for our session on the "fallacy of free licensing for the Power Platform" and discover how the latest Microsoft releases are incredibly relevant to our discussion.

Remember the early days of social media etiquette? We reminisce about those times and then shift gears to the launch of Mark Cloud Lighthouse Learn, a platform promising robust content on ecosystem architecture and AI within the Microsoft enterprise. Plus, we spotlight the newly released white paper, "Ecosystem-Oriented Architecture in the Public Sector," full of insights that extend beyond just the public sector. Anna shares her expert take, emphasizing the importance of contextual examples from the US government to illustrate broader principles effectively.

Ever wondered how cross-industry pollination can revolutionize technology strategies? We reveal how experiences from sectors like healthcare and construction can ignite innovative ideas in tech. Hear about the collaborative efforts within Microsoft teams and the updated "Crafting your Future Ready AI Strategy" white paper, packed with insights on responsible AI practices. Finally, we tackle the frustrations of impersonal LinkedIn communication, stressing the importance of genuine connections and proper digital etiquette with a dose of humor and practical advice. Tune in for a well-rounded mix of professional insights and entertaining anecdotes!

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/602

Ever wondered how Microsoft ensures ethical AI in its business applications? Join us as Sid Gundavarapu, a principal product manager at Microsoft, shares his remarkable journey and invaluable insights into proactive AI governance on the Power Platform. Sid brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career, starting from his early days on the CRM team to his current pivotal role in AI governance. This episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at how Microsoft maintains its edge in a rapidly evolving technological landscape, emphasizing the importance of ethical AI.

Beyond the tech talk, Sid gives us a glimpse into his life outside of Microsoft, revealing his passions for family, food, and fun. With candid anecdotes and memorable industry moments, Sid's narrative is both engaging and inspiring. He even shares the story behind his iconic ZZ Top-inspired beard! Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a business professional, or just curious about the human side of innovation, this episode has something for everyone. Tune in for a conversation that's as enlightening as it is entertaining.

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/601

Curious about how a Senior IT Manager balances a dynamic career across countries and cultures? Join us to hear from Mourtaza Moïse Fazlehoussen, who navigated his professional path from Madagascar to Pune, India, all while indulging his love for French cuisine and beach destinations like Goa. Discover how his multilingual abilities in Gujarati, French, and English have not only enriched his personal life but also fueled his passion for writing. Mourtaza opens up about his disciplined approach during the 2020 lockdown using the Japanese Ikigai methodology, which guided him to write a book that helps others achieve fluency in French.

Mourtaza's journey from working at Honeywell in 2013 to managing an IT department for a global manufacturing giant will leave you inspired. Learn how he integrates SAP with Microsoft's Power Platform, leveraging low-code, no-code technologies for digital transformation. Mourtaza's enthusiasm for knowledge-sharing and helping others earned him an MVP nomination from a key figure in the Power Platform community. Tune in for an insightful conversation filled with personal anecdotes and professional wisdom that highlight Mourtaza's dedication and drive.

OTHER RESOURCES:
Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 
90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ 

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/600

Curious to know how a simple phrase like "I appreciate you" can kickstart a conversation on reality TV and lead us into the wild world of Power Platform events? Join us for a rollercoaster ride as we share our humorous critique of "Love at First Sight" UK edition and gear up for our upcoming trip to Las Vegas. You'll hear some hilarious stories about interactions with Charles LaManna and even get a sneak peek into our unique "help signal" idea for conference conversations. We also dive into Steve Jeffrey's insightful publication from Microsoft about the Business Value Toolkit, which is all set to revolutionize how organizations measure the impact of the Power Platform.

Ever wondered if your reliance on data might be overshadowing your strategic instincts? We tackle this head-on, discussing the delicate balance between data-driven decisions and the necessity of strategic judgment in both personal and business contexts. Learn why it's crucial for leaders to look beyond mere metrics and embrace strategic foresight, especially when investing in platforms like Power Platform. Plus, get inspired by a Forbes 30 Under 30 AI expert's journey to social media fame and our own challenge to develop new skills and improve concise communication. Don't miss out on our tips for navigating social media pitfalls and join us at the upcoming conference for a chance to connect in person—mention our show and your next drink is on us!

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/599   

Ever wondered how a technologist with decades of experience balances a vibrant personal life and a transformative career? Our latest episode features Mark Slosberg, the mastermind behind Hanging Valley Enterprises. With a rich history in the tech world and 42 years of marriage, Mark shares his love for cooking in a kitchen tailored for two type-A chefs, his passion for smoking meats and fish, and his joy in hosting family pizza nights. Outside the kitchen, Mark and his wife are committed hikers and gardeners, transforming their property near Seattle into a low-maintenance haven filled with native plant species.

Mark's professional journey is equally compelling. He recalls advocating for SQL Server 2008 at Chevron and spearheading the Microsoft practice at PwC, which significantly integrated Power BI and early PowerApps adoption. His story doesn't end there; after leaving PwC, Mark took on groundbreaking projects using PowerApps and Azure AI, including a successful application for a major seed distributor. His insights reveal how these tools have revolutionized business processes and data management, providing a unique perspective on the evolution of technology in consulting.

In a detailed case study, Mark illustrates the power of custom solutions in business technology. He recounts developing a seed distribution app for an agriculture firm struggling with an outdated JD Edwards system. By prototyping with Power Apps and Power BI, Mark's team enhanced data access and streamlined sales operations. Furthermore, he shares a transformative experience with a billion-dollar firm, where leveraging SQL Server and standardizing data views turned around an underperforming Cognos implementation. Tune in to learn how integrating Power Apps with JD Edwards using APIs can revolutionize backend operations and ensure long-term system efficiency.

Resources Mentioned
First solution in the Microsoft AppSource online solution catalog - https://appsource.microsoft.com/en-us/product/dynamics-365/hangingvalleyenterprisesllc1645487787841.salesenable  

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/598   

Ever wondered how to unlock the full potential of low-code platforms in a global organization? Join us for an engaging conversation with  Valentin Mazhar, an MVP awardee and M365 Solution Architect at Zurich Insurance, as he reveals his fascinating professional journey from Paris to Barcelona. Valentin's story is a tapestry of passions—from early love for math to a thriving career in digitalization, all the way to his current role in the Power Platform Center for Enablement. Alongside insights into his career, Valentin brings personal stories to life, sharing moments from his life like his transition from squash and mountain biking to becoming an avid runner on Barcelona's beaches, and his exciting personal milestones including marriage and expecting twins.

In this episode, we dig deep into the critical debate around Power Platform governance and licensing. Valentin shares his expert perspective on the challenges and benefits of managed environments, the cost implications, and when it makes sense to invest in premium capabilities. We tackle the tricky balance between custom tools and out-of-the-box features, and the total cost of ownership (TCO) considerations for organizations. Whether you're a tech enthusiast eager to learn more about the Power Platform or simply someone who enjoys a mix of professional insights and personal narratives, this episode offers a rich blend of both.

OTHER RESOURCES:
Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/597 

Get ready to rethink everything you know about AI governance as we dive into the compelling world of chaos engineering in AI. Today's episode of the Ecosystem Show promises to challenge traditional mindsets and spotlight the innovative approaches necessary for managing AI-infused container apps and custom large language models (LLMs). Through real-world examples and ethical discussions, we tackle the complexities of governing non-deterministic AI solutions and emphasize the critical role of transparency and rigorous testing as dictated by the EU AI Act. We also grapple with the thorny issues of liability and accountability when AI-generated content goes awry. 

Get ready to rethink everything you know about AI governance as we dive into the compelling world of chaos engineering in AI. Today's episode of the Ecosystem Show promises to challenge traditional mindsets and spotlight the innovative approaches necessary for managing AI-infused container apps and custom large language models (LLMs). Through real-world examples and ethical discussions, we tackle the complexities of governing non-deterministic AI solutions and emphasize the critical role of transparency and rigorous testing as dictated by the EU AI Act. We also grapple with the thorny issues of liability and accountability when AI-generated content goes awry.

In our next segment, we shine a spotlight on the indispensable role of good data and observability in AI and AIOps, with special insights from Alistair Pugin. You'll learn about the dangers of data exfiltration, the nuances between observability and monitoring, and the imperative for continuous improvement in an AI-driven landscape. As we navigate through the complexities of establishing AI standards in light of new regulations, like the European AI Act, we also delve into the evolving role of citizen developers and how they integrate into this fast-paced world of AI.

Finally, we explore the strategies individuals use to stay updated in the ever-evolving world of AI. From balancing busy jobs and personal lives to leveraging informal learning and engaging with knowledgeable colleagues, we uncover the various ways to keep pace with rapid technological advancements. We introduce "Napkin AI," a tool that transforms written content into visual diagrams, enhancing comprehension and presentations. Wrapping up, we emphasize the importance of retaining skilled low-code Power Platform professionals and dispel the misconception that citizen developers only need advanced Excel skills to succeed. Tune in for a demonstration of Napkin AI and insights into the exciting, yet complex, future of AI governance and collaboration.

Support the show (https://www.buymeacoffee.com/nz365guy) 

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith