The Tech Talks Daily Podcast

How do organizations tackle the growing challenge of transformation fatigue, and what does it mean for the future of innovation? In this episode, Alex Adamopoulos, CEO of Emergn, joins the conversation to explore the realities of transformation fatigue, why it persists in global enterprises, and how Emergn’s unique approach is helping organizations break free from dependency on traditional consulting firms.

Alex shares insights from Emergn’s research, revealing that nearly 50% of employees consider leaving their roles due to burnout from repeated organizational changes, and 70% of transformation programs fail to deliver meaningful results. He outlines how transformation fatigue manifests through symptoms like excessive workloads, buzzword-heavy initiatives, and a reliance on outdated methodologies. Alex emphasizes that successful change comes from empowering teams, focusing on incremental improvements, and building a culture where innovation thrives organically.

We also dive into Emergn’s differentiators, contrasting their mission to make clients autonomous with the dependency-focused models of larger consulting firms. Through their VFQ (Value, Flow, Quality) learning program, Emergn helps businesses upskill teams and operationalize innovation in ways that are practical, scalable, and sustainable. Alex critiques the traditional models used by firms like McKinsey and the Big Four, highlighting how Emergn’s focus on flexibility and measurable outcomes offers a more client-centered approach.

The discussion also touches on AI’s transformative potential. With Emergn’s survey predicting AI integration in 98% of products and services by 2028, Alex sheds light on how companies can navigate ethical, legal, and scalability challenges. From predictive maintenance in manufacturing to automated claims in legal industries, AI’s role is poised to reshape sectors far beyond traditional expectations.

What does transformation fatigue mean for your organization, and how can businesses embrace change without losing momentum? Share your thoughts and join the conversation after listening!

How does branded political merchandise shape the way Americans connect with their chosen candidates? In this episode, we’re joined by Rob Mobsby from EverythingBranded, a global hub for high-quality, tangible marketing solutions, to explore the insights from their 2024 Political Merchandise Report. From the enduring appeal of campaign swag to its surprising impact on voter behavior, this conversation dives into the world of branded merch as a powerful communication tool in both politics and marketing.

Rob unpacks fascinating data from the report, including the finding that 36% of Americans have purchased or plan to buy political merch to support their candidate, with a striking 77% proudly wearing it to influence others. We discuss how these items, ranging from t-shirts and hats to bumper stickers and pins, transcend election cycles, with many people holding onto them for years, regardless of the outcome. The report also highlights how Democrats and Republicans embrace merchandise differently, with wearables proving to be the top choice across party lines.

Beyond politics, Rob sheds light on the broader influence of branded merchandise in advertising. With 63% of consumers more likely to engage with a business they see on a friend’s branded item compared to digital ads or social media posts, it’s clear that physical marketing tools remain a cornerstone of effective campaigns. He also delves into the human connection fostered by these tangible items, especially in a post-COVID era where people crave belonging and shared identity.

We also explore EverythingBranded’s commitment to political neutrality, its approach to product customization, and how the company uses AI and data-driven strategies to enhance customer experiences. Whether it’s for businesses or political campaigns, branded merchandise continues to demonstrate its unmatched ability to create long-lasting impressions.

How do you think branded merchandise will evolve in the years ahead? Share your thoughts after listening!

Are businesses overestimating the ROI of AI while underestimating the power of strategic outsourcing? With AI adoption costs soaring to $5 billion globally, companies are grappling with rising budgets and uncertain returns. High-profile cuts at organizations like Intel illustrate the mounting pressures to fund AI initiatives. Meanwhile, a significant shift in business priorities is underway, as "growth at all costs" gives way to a sharper focus on profitability and sustainability.

In this episode, I’m joined by Craig Crisler, CEO of SupportNinja, to explore how outsourcing is evolving from a cost-cutting fallback to a cornerstone strategy for achieving growth in challenging economic times. Craig shares insights into how sustained interest rates, reduced venture capital funding, and slowing growth rates are reshaping talent strategies. He breaks down myths and misconceptions about outsourcing and reveals why it should no longer be viewed as a reactive measure but as a proactive tool for scalability and resilience.

Craig also delves into his leadership philosophy, one that champions empathy-informed decision-making and "value-centric relationships" in the workplace. Drawing from 20+ years in operational excellence, Craig highlights how modern outsourcing partnerships can unlock long-term success for businesses navigating the complexities of today’s economy.

Are businesses ready to embrace outsourcing as a strategic ally in scaling for the future? And how can leaders balance efficiency with meaningful investment in relationships and talent? Join us for this timely conversation, and don’t forget to share your thoughts after the episode!

How is the trifecta of blockchain, machine learning, and AI reshaping the future of financial services? Today, we're joined by Rob Krugman, Chief Digital Officer at Broadridge, to delve into the transformative power of digital technology within the financial sector.

In this episode, we explore Broadridge's latest insights on digital transformation, highlighting the widening gap between digital leaders and those lagging behind. An astounding 75% of firms are confident in their digital strategies, yet only a third are at advanced stages in refining customer experiences, modernization, and data management.

Rob shares that successful digital transformation is not just about technology but also involves a cultural shift within organizations. We discuss the barriers that institutions face, such as the challenge of prioritizing long-term transformation over short-term firefighting, attracting top-tier digital talent, and overcoming the inertia of traditional, internally focused approaches.

Moreover, we'll cover the crucial role of AI in creating more engaging and personalized customer experiences. From AI-assisted form filling in insurance claims to persona-based interactions that aim for real-time personalization, financial services are on the brink of a major overhaul.

Rob will also share insights on the cultural adjustments needed to integrate AI effectively, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and the development of "superhuman" capabilities through technology.

Looking towards the future, Rob outlines a vision for 2025 and beyond, where blockchain, machine learning, and AI could enable real-time, 24/7 global transactions with enhanced decision-making processes and anomaly detection.

He also provides advice for organizations at the early stages of their digital transformation journey, suggesting a focus on securing a top-down mandate, starting small with experiments, and being prepared to iterate based on feedback and results.

Join us as we uncover how Broadridge is navigating these changes and what other financial institutions can learn from their journey. How are you preparing for the digital transformation in your field? Share your thoughts and join the conversation.

How do businesses navigate the growing security risks in a world where employees work from anywhere, on any device, with apps IT departments might not even know about? In this special episode of Tech Talks Daily, recorded live at Web Summit in Lisbon, I sit down with Jeff Shiner, CEO of 1Password—a $6.8 billion Canadian-based security company trusted by over 100,000 businesses worldwide.

Jeff shares how 1Password is redefining security through its innovative Extended Access Management platform, tackling challenges that have emerged with the rise of hybrid work, shadow IT, and the widespread adoption of SaaS tools. At a time when the “access trust gap” between employers and employees poses significant risks, Jeff outlines how businesses can close this gap by securing every sign-in, device, and app, without compromising productivity.

Our conversation explores the dual role of AI in cybersecurity: both as a potential threat and as a productivity enhancer. Jeff explains how 1Password leverages generative AI to improve customer support and address evolving enterprise needs. We also discuss the future of security, from integrating seamlessly with tools like Azure AD and Slack to meeting the growing demand for user-friendly solutions that employees willingly adopt—creating a win-win for both individuals and organizations.

With a focus on making security intuitive, reducing friction for users, and empowering businesses to thrive in today’s fast-paced digital environment, Jeff provides invaluable insights into how 1Password is shaping the future of enterprise security.

As we delve into these pressing topics, one key question remains: how can companies balance security and productivity in an ever-evolving threat landscape? Let me know your thoughts, and stay tuned for more conversations from Web Summit!

 How is artificial intelligence redefining the boundaries of creativity and copyright law? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, recorded live at Web Summit in Lisbon, I sit down with Ed Klaris, Managing Partner at Klaris Law and a leading authority on the intersection of technology, media, and intellectual property.

With over 17 years of experience at powerhouse brands like ABC, Disney, and The New Yorker, Ed brings a nuanced perspective to one of the most pressing issues in media and entertainment today: the impact of generative AI on intellectual property rights.

Ed, fresh from a panel discussion titled AI vs. IP, dives into the challenges and opportunities that AI presents to content creators and legal professionals alike. We explore the contentious question of whether AI-generated works can be considered authored—and thus copyrightable—and examine how different global jurisdictions are interpreting human input requirements in the age of AI. From Hollywood's cautious embrace of AI tools to the legal debates surrounding training datasets and fair use, this conversation unpacks the complexities of blending cutting-edge technology with traditional IP frameworks.

We also discuss how businesses can navigate the legal risks of leveraging AI while protecting their proprietary content, the role of blockchain in licensing and rights management, and how companies like Microsoft are addressing concerns around private AI. Ed's insights highlight both the promise and peril of this evolving landscape, offering practical advice for those looking to stay ahead in this rapidly changing field.

As AI reshapes creativity and challenges legal norms, how can we strike a balance between protecting intellectual property and fostering innovation? Join us as we explore these critical questions and more from the show floor at Web Summit. I’d love to hear your thoughts—reach out via email or social media, and let’s continue the conversation!

How can the cybersecurity industry bridge the gap in its staggering 4 million open roles? This episode dives into the critical need for workforce development and how unconventional paths into cybersecurity are reshaping the field.

Joining us is Keatron Evans, VP of Portfolio and Product Strategy at Infosec, a company that has trained professionals at 70% of Fortune 500 organizations. With over 17 years of experience spanning penetration testing, incident response, and information security management, Keatron shares insights on why diverse backgrounds—from non-technical fields like nursing and the military—can enrich cybersecurity teams.

My guest explains how these unique perspectives, coupled with certifications and practical training, can address the skills gap in ways traditional pipelines cannot.

We also explore the growing importance of upskilling in widening talent pools, creating clear career paths, and ensuring inclusivity within the industry. Keatron delves into how organizations can move beyond certifications to focus on demonstrable skills and how AI is accelerating learning while paving the way for emerging roles in cloud security and AI strategy.

The conversation includes practical strategies for workplace leaders and educational institutions to revamp training programs, tap into unexpected talent pools, and prepare for 2025’s cybersecurity trends, including the intersection of cloud, AI, and cybersecurity.

Where do you see the biggest challenges or opportunities in addressing the cybersecurity skills gap? Join the discussion and share your thoughts! To learn more, connect with Keatron Evans and Infosec online for valuable insights into transforming your team’s cybersecurity potential.

In this episode of the Tech Talks Daily Podcast, I’m joined by Elliott Young, EMEA CTO at Dell Technologies, to explore Dell’s ambitious approach to making AI adoption easier and more effective for businesses of all sizes. As AI becomes a key driver of digital transformation, many organizations face barriers around data management, security, and the lack of skilled talent. Dell's AI Factory aims to address these challenges head-on, providing a comprehensive solution to streamline the journey from AI concept to value creation.

Elliott introduces us to Dell’s AI Factory, a scalable infrastructure designed to support a wide range of GPU options, from NVIDIA to Intel and AMD, making it flexible enough to cater to everything from edge devices to cloud-based deployments. By leveraging pre-engineered frameworks and design patterns, the AI Factory helps businesses accelerate their AI projects, reducing the time and complexity of deployment. We dive into real-world use cases, including "Hero AI" solutions like digital humans in emergency rooms and AI-augmented contact centers, demonstrating how AI can transform industries by embedding intelligence into core production systems.

We also tackle the critical issue of data security. Elliott explains why on-premise and hybrid cloud models remain the preferred choice for over 80% of businesses due to their enhanced security and compliance features. He highlights Dell’s commitment to zero-trust principles and secure supply chains, which form the foundation of the AI Factory’s data management capabilities. Additionally, Elliott shares insights into the innovative security strategies required to address the unique data challenges posed by AI technologies.

Sustainability is another key focus for Dell, as Elliott discusses the energy efficiency improvements in the latest generation of Dell PowerEdge servers and the company's efforts to use recycled materials in hardware and packaging. We also explore how GenAI solutions within the AI Factory can help optimize resource usage, replacing outdated, less efficient AI systems.

As the conversation moves to the skills gap in AI, Elliott talks about Dell's approach to bridging this divide. By focusing on business expertise rather than purely technical skills, Dell’s workshops and professional services aim to make AI accessible for a broader range of users. He emphasizes the importance of empowering teams to prioritize AI use cases that align with business objectives.

Finally, we discuss Dell's commitment to an open ecosystem approach, which supports multiple hardware options and software integrations. Elliott explains how multi-tenancy capabilities within the AI Factory enable efficient resource sharing across departments, maximizing GPU utilization and driving business efficiency.

The company is currently preparing for the Dell Technologies Forum on November 26th, where they will showcase the latest capabilities of the AI Factory. This episode offers a sneak peek into the future of AI-driven innovation and how businesses can overcome common hurdles in AI adoption.

Will Dell’s AI Factory pave the way for a more accessible and effective AI landscape? 

This episode was recorded live at Web Summit with Andrew Skrypnyk, CEO and co-founder of Promova, a language learning platform that’s making waves in the EdTech space. With a recent nomination for the 2024 Allstars Awards by GP Bullhound and a spot on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, Andrew brings a unique perspective on the evolving landscape of education technology and the future of accessible learning. From his move from Ukraine to San Francisco, where he expanded Promova’s reach, to achieving 15 million downloads and 1.8 million active users, Andrew's journey is nothing short of inspiring.

We discuss the challenges of competing in a saturated market against giants like Duolingo and Babbel, and explore Promova’s path to profitability in just two years. Andrew shares insights on how the platform has evolved from a simple flashcard app to a comprehensive, personalized learning tool designed with inclusivity at its core. We discuss innovative features like Dyslexia Mode, which aims to make language learning accessible to neurodivergent individuals, and the balance of AI and human interaction in creating an effective educational experience.

Andrew also sheds light on Promova's partnership with the Ukrainian government, offering free premium access to all Ukrainians, a commitment to support language learning during times of crisis. As he prepares to speak at Web Summit 2024 on the panel "Teaching for Tomorrow's Jobs Today," Andrew offers a glimpse into the future of EdTech and the growing importance of adapting content for diverse learning needs.

Is the future of education technology rooted in personalization and inclusivity? Can language learning apps blend AI with the human touch to deliver better outcomes? Tune in to find out, and share your thoughts after the episode!

Are we ready to see a true revolution in the offshore wind industry? In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, we’re joined by Joe Tidball, VP and Co-Founder of Beam, a cutting-edge British deep tech company making waves (literally) with its innovative use of AI and autonomy.

As the world leans further into renewable energy, Beam is stepping up with robotic ships and autonomous underwater vehicles designed to service offshore wind farms more efficiently than ever before.

We’ll explore how Beam’s technology is helping to solve the offshore industry’s growing labor challenges and meet ambitious targets set for 2030. Joe shares insights into their recent groundbreaking achievement—the world’s first AI-driven autonomous underwater vehicle deployed to inspect offshore structures. It’s a feat that signals a new era for automation and data-driven decision-making in the energy sector.

In our conversation, we break down the basics of the offshore wind industry for newcomers, dive into the ways technology is transforming this space, and discuss the implications of integrating AI, including both its promise and potential pitfalls. Joe offers a candid look at how Beam navigates these challenges and what the future holds for AI-driven autonomy in wind farm operations.

As Web Summit gathers industry leaders and tech enthusiasts from around the globe, this episode couldn’t be more timely. So, is AI the key to unlocking the full potential of renewable energy, or are we still navigating uncharted waters?

Tune in and find out. And after you listen, don’t forget to share your thoughts—can AI truly redefine our approach to energy sustainability, or is there more work to be done?