The Intelligence Age

FULL SHOW NOTES
https://podcast.nz365guy.com/536 

Have you ever wondered what goes into becoming a sensation in the tech content creation world while juggling a family of six? Join us as we sit down with Darren Neese from Super Power Labs, an Orlando-based MVP and YouTube phenomenon, who shares his incredible two-decade journey through IT and software development. Darren's got a knack for turning complex topics into captivating content, and in this heart-to-heart, he opens up about the thrills and spills of his day-to-day life, including his deep-seated love for pizza and Power Apps. Peer behind the curtain to discover the tools of his trade – from his trusted Yeti Blue microphone to his Nikon Z6 camera – and how he harnesses the power of live streaming to connect and educate his loyal followers.

Transitioning from Darren's engaging anecdotes, I reflect on a professional pivot, discussing a challenging SharePoint project for a leading Australian bank that culminated in a switch to Dataverse. Contemplating the intricacies of SharePoint's governance and the results of an eye-opening poll on its usage, we speculate on the implications for Microsoft's bottom line. Moreover, I express my heartfelt gratitude for the prestigious Microsoft MVP award, an achievement I owe to the support of many in this incredible community. If these stories of innovation, decision-making, and achievement in the world of tech pique your interest, you're in for a treat. To extend your support, feel free to visit buymeacoffee.com/NZ365guy, and make sure to peruse the show notes for links to Darren's social media and additional resources.

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/535 

Have you ever been struck by the ingenuity of technology's unsung heroes? Meet Akash Patel, the IT application senior specialist and Power Platform maestro from Chemours, who's not only paving the way for innovation within his organization but also stirring up a community of makers and citizen developers. In an intimate conversation, he shares his personal and professional journey - a story steeped in determination, passion for Indian culture, and a relentless pursuit of technological excellence. From setting the governance framework to leading high-impact projects, Akash's narrative exemplifies the transformative power of leadership and collaboration.

This time around, we're peeling back the layers of how a longstanding global chemical company revolutionized its operations by embracing the Microsoft Power Platform and AI. Imagine a workplace where 7,000 employees are harnessing the potential of 2,000 applications and 7,000 workflows to propel productivity to new heights - that's the kind of digital metamorphosis Akash walks us through. We'll also navigate the intricacies of balancing innovation with IT support and the pivotal role of the Global Power Platform Admin User Group in refining best practices across the ecosystem. Join us as we explore the promise of organizational efficiency and empowerment, and witness a future where enterprise applications are not just modernized, but truly transformed.

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/534

Imagine trading the certainty of a well-trodden sales career for the electric buzz of technology – that's the leap Nathan Rose, our MVP from Auckland and Power Platform wizard at Capgemini, made with gusto. We're thrilled to have him unpack his inspiring transition, sharing not only the nuts and bolts of his professional pivot but also giving us a glimpse into his life – from his deep roots in New Zealand to his zest for community service and culinary delights. As Nathan walks us through his early encounters with Power Virtual Agents and his ascent up the steep slopes of Power Automate, you'll feel the infectious excitement that comes from discovering one's true calling.

Then, tipping our hats to creators everywhere, Nathan reveals the creative engine behind Copilot Studio's compelling content. For those hesitating at the starting line of content creation, he's the coach cheering you on – emphasizing the power of authenticity and the magic that happens when you craft learning materials that resonate personally. Armed only with his iPhone and Canava, Nathan constructs a blueprint for building engagement, proving that it's not about high-end gear but heart and hustle. As we chart the course towards MVP status, Nathan's tale is a testament to the enduring value of community, lifelong learning, and the profound impact of each connection we forge on our professional journeys. Join us for a masterclass in transformation and the unspoken rewards of following your passion.

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/533

Strap in, as we take an exhilarating tour through the guts of the Microsoft Power Platform. We promise to demystify its strategic foundation and prove to you why it stands apart from building solutions and governance. You'll share laughs with us as we recall unique conference experiences like presenting without shoes and, believe it or not, PowerApps and Power Automate tattoos. 

As we venture further into this digital landscape, we hammer home the importance of erecting a sturdy strategic foundation to foster a thriving platform ecosystem. You'll see the value of workload prioritization, ecosystem mapping, and the critical role of executive vision in ensuring an organization's prosperity. And not just that, but we also touch on the necessity of a flexible budgeting model for technology. The CFOs, we're looking at you! We've got some insights that might make you rethink your approach.

We also delve into the world of low code development, where we discuss the 'six P's': purpose, plan, platform, process, people, and portfolio. The conversation takes an exciting twist as we explore the concept of the low-code city and the application portfolio. We'll reveal how to manage unstructured data and the magic of Cognitive Search for indexing and analysis. As we conclude this intriguing journey, let's reflect on the power of starting conversations and the potential they have to enhance our lives. So, if you're ready for a knowledge-packed adventure, join us and let's learn together.

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/532

Embark on a transformative journey with Jeff ANGAMA, the MVP from France, whose mantra of thinking big yet starting small has led him to success in the world of tech. As a solutions engineer at AvePoint, he's carved a niche for himself by embracing rapid failure as a stepping stone to greatness. Our conversation with Jeff isn't just a peek into his professional life; it's an adventure across cultures—from his gastronomic tales in Singapore to academic pursuits in China. We uncover the pivotal moments in his career, including spearheading a colossal digital overhaul for a French cleaning powerhouse, transitioning them from Lotus Notes to the modern workspace of Microsoft Teams and Outlook.

We then shift gears to dissect the anatomy of an MVP—what it takes, the grind, the community spirit, and the art of knowledge-sharing. Jeff walks us through his content creation strategy, engaging with fellow tech enthusiasts, and how he's adapted his outreach from comprehensive blog posts to the more concise, emoji-laced microblogs on LinkedIn. Governance in Microsoft's ecosystem and the excitement brewing around AI like Copilot take center stage as we talk about the hot topics for future conferences. And if you're curious about the behind-the-scenes of preparing for those coveted speaking slots, Jeff provides an insider's perspective on selecting topics that resonate and crafting presentations that captivate. Tune in for an episode that's as much about personal growth as it is about professional acumen.

OTHER RESOURCES:
Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 
How to Deploy Power Platform in a Mid-Market Enterprise - https://www.tekkigurus.com/how-to-deploy-power-platform-in-a-mid-market-enterprise/
Public speaking tips discussed - https://youtu.be/HAnw168huqA 

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/531 

Step into the future of IT management and creative innovation with our esteemed guest from Singapore, Rene Modery, the Power Platform Technical Lead at WPP. Rene not only excels in his role within the world of Power Platform and Microsoft 365 but also brings a personal touch to our discussion, sharing the fascinating endeavor of crafting full-size Mandalorian armor using a 3D printer. His journey from Germany to Singapore unfolds, revealing the cultural shifts that have shaped his professional journey and the passions that run parallel to his career. As Rene delves into the balance between work and life, listeners will find inspiration in the seamless integration of his love for Star Wars into his technical expertise.

Take a deep look behind the scenes of WPP, the world's foremost media and advertising powerhouse, and the complexities of managing a Power Platform Multitenant Environment across a global enterprise. As we unravel the intricacies of tenant consolidation, governance, and support strategies, you'll gain invaluable insights into the necessity of maintaining a delicate equilibrium between regular updates and streamlined administrative processes. Additionally, we shine a light on PowerDocu, a revolutionary tool that is changing the game for documenting Power Apps and Power Automate flows, making it a must-know for professionals seeking to elevate their technical documentation process. Join us for a compelling episode where the worlds of IT strategy and creative pursuits collide, offering lessons and stories that resonate with innovators and strategists alike.

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/530

Ever wonder how stumbling into a career can lead to a dynamic love affair with technology? Our guest, Andrew Lencsak, an ERP delivery director and freshly minted MVP, shares the serendipitous beginnings of his journey into IT and how it blossomed into a rewarding rendezvous with Dynamics ERP. He's woven a career in consulting, with threads rich in manufacturing sector expertise, and a penchant for problem-solving within an ERP system, proving that the path less planned can be surprisingly fulfilling. And if you think ERP talk is all shop floor and supply chain, wait until Drew dishes on parenting in the 'age of beige'—his children's amusingly monochromatic food preferences.

This episode isn't just a foray into career evolution; it's a masterclass in community and content creation. Andrew opens the playbook on his "Dynamics 365 A to Z" YouTube series and "Dynamics Unplugged" podcast, detailing how themed content isn't merely a personal brand builder—it's a cornerstone of community contribution. We pull back the curtain on the workflow behind impactful content, from leveraging Microsoft Teams to finessing with ClipChamp, and underscore why sharing knowledge isn't just rewarding—it's integral for professional and communal growth. Drew's narrative is more than just an insight into the Dynamics world; it's an inspirational call to action for all burgeoning MVPs and content creators out there.

OTHER RESOURCES:
Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 
90-Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/
Dynamics Unplugged - https://open.spotify.com/show/2A0oyYSvA2Dkwqk3KAHXpb?si=2bd55098748b42e1

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/529 

Have you ever wondered how AI can supercharge your business applications? Join me as I sit down with Tom Marsh, a Microsoft maestro of product management, to unveil the transformative power of large language models and their potent influence in the business world. As Tom traces his ascent from intern to product management virtuoso, we venture behind the scenes of Microsoft's innovative culture, where he orchestrates the enhancement of work efficiency and job satisfaction with cutting-edge applications. Beyond the tech talk, Tom also gives us a glimpse into his personal life, from treasured family moments to his culinary escapades.

Imagine a workplace where AI tools like Co-Pilot redefines customer service and case resolution in industries as intricate as financial services. In this episode, we dissect the practicalities of automation technologies and their ripple effects across various sectors. Discussions with Tom illuminate the boon of Microsoft's collaborative landscape, sparking a hive of cross-group idea exchange and ceaseless innovation. We also navigate the complexities and triumphs of hardware supply management essential for rolling out these AI marvels, not forgetting the impact of GitHub Copilot and the internal knowledge sharing it fosters.

The digital future hinges on the synergy of data and AI. My conversation with Tom dives into the essence of high-quality data for informed decision-making and how AI can enrich this very data, streamlining processes like CRM systems and elevating meeting productivity. We encourage you to get hands-on with AI tools through the Power Platform, traversing Microsoft's treasure trove of learning resources. Plus, we're inviting your voice into the conversation. Who from Microsoft would you love to hear next on our show? This is your front-row seat to the pulsating heart of business applications and AI's perspective landscape.

RESOURCES MENTIONED: 

For Microsoft partners (for all kinds of demos, presentations, documentation, and more.) -  http://aka.ms/bacopilot  

Overview of the different copilot experiences in Dynamics 365 - http://aka.ms/dynamics365ai 

Microsoft Power AI I Microsoft Power Platform (More information for copilot experiences in Power Platform) - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/power-platform/ai 

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/528

Ever wondered what it's like to swap the sunny skies of Brazil for the emerald embrace of Ireland, all while scaling the heights of Microsoft's tech landscape? Michel Mendes, our spirited guest from Brazil, did just that. He traces his steps from SharePoint savant to a maestro of BizApps and Power Platform, with a special nod to his current passion, PowerPages. But Michel's tale isn't just about the bytes and codes; he paints a vibrant canvas of his life in Dublin, from headbanging at rock concerts to savouring craft beers at the famed Porterhouse. You'll feel the cobblestone beneath your feet as he brings the essence of Dublin – and the warmth of its pubs – to our ears.

Join us as we walk the road less travelled with Michel, discussing not only the perks of city life but also the challenging leap of resettling in an English-speaking work environment. His reflections on the linguistic gymnastics and cultural adaptability required to flourish abroad are as inspiring as they are practical. And if you're keen to know how engaging content and community spirit can earn you the coveted Microsoft MVP title, Michel's insights are a treasure trove. He shares his favourite Power Platform tools, combining advanced development with the streamlined functionality of Power Pages and Power Automate, proving that professional growth and personal reinvention go hand in hand.

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://podcast.nz365guy.com/527

Imagine intertwining the rhythms of personal passion with the beats of cutting-edge technology. That's the melody we play in our latest discussion with Jon Russell and Mike Gowland from A&S Group, where we harmonize the tunes of AI, the Power Platform, and life's candid moments. Our guests don't just bring their tech expertise to the table; they also share slices of their personal worlds, from John's artistic forays into photography and music to Mike's heartfelt family tales, setting the stage for a symphony of stories where technology meets the heart.

'Just Ask It' isn't just a tool; it's a testament to the spirit of innovation that thrives at the intersection of AI and human ingenuity. We wade into the narrative of this game-changing asset for DataVerse schema generation, born from a high-stakes challenge to assist a water utility company. Witness how a blend of technical prowess and AI assistance gave rise to a digital copilot that now empowers consultants to demonstrate DataVerse's versatility across diverse industries, all while fostering a unique dialogue between technology and user needs.

As we peer into the horizon, we ponder the future of personal language models and their transformative potential for businesses and individuals alike. The conversation takes flight as we discuss the impact of shrinking chip sizes on AI development, the allure of personal digital avatars, and the ethical framework that must scaffold the AI landscape. Join us as we explore these trails, guided by John and Mike's insights, and consider how the burgeoning growth of AI technology could shape a future where your tech understands not just your commands, but your story.

RESOURCES MENTIONED:
Just Ask It - https://github.com/sgtsnacks-64/JustAskIt/tree/main 

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

Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith