The TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben chats with global tech leader Jeanette Dorazio about the power and misconceptions of agentic AI. Drawing from her experience leading digital transformation across multiple industries, Jeanette shares why the real story of AI isn't about replacement, it's about redefinition and reinvention. AI isn't replacing jobs – it's redefining them by offloading the tasks no one wants to do, so humans can focus on meaningful, strategic work. This conversation explores how agentic AI works, why it's different from the tools most people are used to, and how leaders can use it to elevate both operations and human potential. Jeanette breaks down what it actually takes to create buy-in, navigate change management, and build a workplace culture that's ready for the future. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or already experimenting with AI, this episode brings clear, actionable insights that challenge assumptions and expand your thinking. Jeanette Dorazio is a visionary technology executive known for translating AI buzz into real-world business results. With leadership roles at Oracle, Verifone, Solera, and as the former CEO of Leadpages, she's led digital transformation across SaaS, e-commerce, and enterprise operations. Jeanette specializes in turning emerging technologies like agentic AI into practical, human-centered solutions that fuel high-performing teams and sustainable growth. Her people-first leadership style drives deep engagement and meaningful change, empowering teams to embrace innovation with confidence. As a sought-after advisor to early-stage tech companies and a passionate advocate for responsible AI, Jeanette is helping shape the next era of tech leadership. Her expertise lies at the intersection of empathy, experimentation, and exponential thinking, making her a trusted guide for leaders ready to navigate what's next. Connect with Us: Jeanette Dorazio | LinkedIn Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone

A compelling 60-second story can be the difference between buy-in and rejection. In today's fast-paced world, leaders often overwhelm their audience with details, but real persuasion happens when messaging is clear, compelling, and emotionally engaging. In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben talks with executive communication expert Cindy Skalicky about the power of messaging that moves people to action. Cindy introduces her Red Light, Green Light model, a framework that helps leaders transform complex ideas into persuasive narratives that inspire confidence and drive decisions. Explore why many executives struggle to get buy-in, how to simplify messages without losing impact, and why AI can refine communication but will never replace the human connection that makes messages stick. If you want to communicate with more clarity, confidence, and influence, this episode is a must-listen. Cindy Skalicky is a storytelling and executive communication expert, helping leaders at Google, Microsoft, DuPont, and JPMorgan Chase sharpen their messaging, command the room, and drive action. Her "Red Light, Green Light" model equips leaders to move audiences from hesitation to buy-in, making complex ideas clear and compelling. Whether working with executives, scientists, or entrepreneurs, Cindy helps leaders refine their presence, master persuasion, and make their ideas stick. Connect with Us: Cindy Skalicky | LinkedIn On Point Communications, LLC Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone.io

In this episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast, co-hosts Deb Reuben and Jennica Burgh sit down with Amy Yamada, founder of BotLeads.ai, IdealClient.ai, and Powerhouse AI, to discuss how AI and human connection can work hand in hand to fuel business growth. Many leaders worry that embracing AI means losing the personal touch in client relationships. But what if AI could actually deepen those connections? What if it could make us better communicators? Amy shares how her AI-powered platforms are helping businesses gain deeper insights into their ideal clients, refine messaging, and scale effectively, all while maintaining authenticity. If you're curious about how AI can strengthen customer relationships, this episode is for you. Tune in to discover how AI can be your collaborative partner for smarter business growth. Amy Yamada is a visionary entrepreneur and AI business strategist redefining how companies attract, engage, and serve their ideal clients. As the founder of BotLeads.ai, IdealClient.ai, and Powerhouse AI, Amy helps high-growth entrepreneurs and enterprise organizations leverage AI-powered systems to scale without losing the human touch. Her groundbreaking Ideal Client AI platform empowers businesses to gain deep, data-driven insights into their target audience, transforming how they craft messaging, offers, and client experiences. Through AI-driven automation, client engagement strategies, and expert coaching, Amy and her team equip leaders with the tools to scale authentically while maintaining meaningful relationships with their customers. A sought-after speaker and advisor, Amy is passionate about bridging technology and human connection, ensuring AI enhances – not replaces – the personal touch in business. Connect with Us: Amy Yamada on LinkedIn: Amy Yamada | LinkedIn Amy Yamada Website: AmyYamada.com Bot Leads Website: BotLeads.ai Ideal Client Website: IdealClient.ai Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn Jennica Burgh on LinkedIn: Jennica Burgh | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben chats with Shannon Lucas, Co-CEO of Catalyst Constellations, about what it really takes to drive transformation inside organizations. For years, studies have shown that up to 70% of major change initiatives fail – but what if the problem isn't the employees? What if the issue is the outdated way we approach transformation? Shannon breaks down why traditional change management methods are no longer enough in today's rapidly shifting world and why innovation isn't a one-size-fits-all process. She reveals the real secret to making change stick. Spoiler alert: it has nothing to do with another reorg or a rigid playbook. Instead, it starts with recognizing and empowering the hidden catalysts inside your organization – the fire starters who are already driving change, often without recognition or support. If you're leading transformation efforts and struggling with change fatigue, this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew about innovation. Tune in for fresh insights on how to make real, lasting change happen. Shannon Lucas is a transformation powerhouse on a mission to unlock the potential of changemakers inside organizations. As Co-CEO of Catalyst Constellations, she equips fire starters – those relentless innovators pushing boundaries – with the tools and support they need to create lasting impact. A former executive at Vodafone and Ericsson, Shannon has spent over 20 years driving large-scale innovation, helping global organizations move beyond the status quo to future-proof their businesses. She is also the co-author of the #1 Amazon bestseller, Move Fast. Break Shit. Burn Out. The Catalyst's Guide to Working Well, a must-read guide for anyone navigating high-stakes change without burning out. As Managing Director of the Catalyst Leadership Trust at Samudra Group, she connects transformational leaders in an invite-only community designed to fuel real progress. Whether it's rethinking failure, amplifying the voices of intrapreneurs, or challenging outdated change management approaches, Shannon is at the forefront of shaping what's next. Connect with Us: Shannon Lucas on LinkedIn: Shannon Lucas | LinkedIn Catalyst Constellations Website: Catalyst Constellations Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben chats with Josh Power, founder of Golden Capital LLC, about his journey from sales professional to business owner. Josh shares how he's leveraging AI and automation to work smarter, not harder, proving that technology isn't replacing relationships, it's amplifying them.

Starting a lending business from scratch isn't for the faint of heart, and Josh opens up about the biggest lessons he's learned along the way, from navigating vendor relationships to streamlining operations for maximum efficiency. He also discusses industry trends, including the shift toward used equipment and the growing need for digital transformation in lending.

If you're a business leader looking for ways to scale smarter, optimize processes, and embrace the future of AI-powered business, this conversation is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Josh Power is the founder and owner of Golden Capital LLC, a company dedicated to making commercial lending more accessible for businesses through streamlined equipment financing and asset-based lending. With a background in sales and a sharp entrepreneurial mindset, Josh took the bold leap from dealmaker to business owner, embracing innovation and technology to fuel growth. His strategic use of AI and automation is reshaping how lending businesses operate, proving that curiosity and adaptability are key to staying ahead. Based in Overland Park, Kansas, Josh leads a growing team while continuously refining processes to create a more efficient, client-focused lending experience. When he's not helping businesses secure the right financial solutions, you'll find him embracing the outdoors, enjoying fishing, and exploring new challenges.

Connect with Us:

Josh Power on LinkedIn: Josh Power | LinkedIn

Golden Capital LLC Website: Golden Capital LLC

Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn

TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, Deb Reuben and Danielle Dolloff, EVP of Sales and Marketing at Liventus, chat about the biggest challenges and opportunities in AI adoption. Many leaders feel stuck – excited by AI's potential but unsure where to start. The fastest way to make AI expensive? Start without a plan or alignment and without focusing on real business outcomes. That's why TomorrowZone and Liventus have partnered to help businesses move from AI curiosity to AI action – combining deep industry expertise with a structured, hands-on approach to make AI work for your business. Danielle and Deb discuss: Why AI adoption is overwhelming for

• many companies and how to simplify it

The two biggest mistakes leaders make

• when jumping into AI

Why AI doesn't have to be massive

• overhaul – small strategic steps can lead to huge impact

Sidestep the hype, focus on ROI, and take practical steps toward AI success. The future belongs to those who can cut through the noise and take intentional, value-driven action. If you're ready to stop guessing and start transforming, this episode is for you. We are so excited about the TomorrowZone & Liventus partnership – where curiosity meets execution to help you build a more awesome future! TomorrowZone® is a recognized leader in bridging the gap between innovation and adoption, driving digital transformation in the equipment finance industry and beyond. Named one of the industry's best companies and most innovative emerging disruptors by Monitor Magazine for multiple years, TomorrowZone partners with visionary leaders to inspire future-ready strategies and navigate the complexities of digital change. With a unique focus on both the technological and human aspects of transformation, TomorrowZone empowers teams to embrace innovation and turn disruption into opportunity. Liventus is a trusted technology partner with over 22 years of experience in custom software development. Specializing in Fintech, Insurance, Healthcare, and Equipment Finance, we design scalable, high-performance solutions that drive digital transformation. With teams across the U.S., India, and South America, we collaborate closely with clients to deliver tailored, secure software that aligns with their business goals. Our security-first approach ensures robust protection against digital threats. At Liventus, we don't just build software—we create strategic technology solutions that empower businesses to thrive. Connect with Us: Danielle Dolloff on LinkedIn: Danielle Dolloff | LinkedIn Liventus Website: Liventus.com Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deb Reuben chats with Erich Dylus, founder of Varia Law, about the evolving relationship between AI, blockchain, and automation – and why business leaders need to rethink the future of contracts, transactions, and decision-making AI is powerful at subjective reasoning, but when it comes to objective execution, blockchain and smart contracts are essential. The future of business isn't just AI; it's AI working alongside automation and decentralized code. Erich explains how smart contracts are already handling major financial transactions behind the scenes and why forward-thinking business leaders need to pay attention now. They also explore the regulatory shifts shaping the future of crypto and AI in the U.S., the role of cybernetic organizations, and even how blockchain could be essential for autonomous space exploration. If you're curious about the next evolution of AI-driven business, this conversation is packed with insights you can't afford to miss. Erich Dylus is the founder of Varia Law, a forward-thinking law, consulting, and programming firm at the intersection of autonomous technology, AI, and blockchain. A licensed attorney in Maryland and Washington, D.C., and an experienced Solidity programmer, Erich is redefining how legal frameworks can support cutting-edge innovations. Previously, he practiced aviation and equipment finance law at Vedder Price, where he advised on complex domestic and international transactions, securitizations, and regulatory compliance. Today, Erich serves as external general counsel to API3 Foundation, a leader in decentralized APIs, and has developed LexCro, a non-custodial smart contract escrow protocol revolutionizing digital transactions. Passionate about the future of AI-driven organizations, smart contracts, and even space law, Erich is shaping the legal structures that will enable the next generation of technological breakthroughs. Connect with Us: Erich Dylus on LinkedIn: Erich Dylus | LinkedIn Varia Law: Website || LinkedIn Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Alissa Bartlett flips the script, and interviews TomorrowZone® founder Deb Reuben about her work with the ELFA Innovation Advisory Council and the mindset shift that's redefining innovation in the equipment finance industry. For years, leaders assumed that new technology was the key to innovation. But the real challenge is mindset. The biggest barrier to change isn't a lack of tools; it's how leaders think about the future, engage their teams, and create environments where experimentation is safe. Deb shares how TomorrowZone® helped the ELFA build a thriving innovation ecosystem, how AI has evolved from an industry buzzword to a business necessity, and why true transformation happens when leaders make space to think beyond daily operations. If you're ready to break free from outdated models and embrace the art of the possible, this episode is for you. Deb Reuben is a catalyst for change, helping business leaders move beyond incremental improvements to drive real transformation. As the Founder and CEO of TomorrowZone®, she challenges conventional thinking and inspires fresh approaches to innovation, technology strategy, and future readiness. With decades of experience in equipment finance and technology, Deb has worked with leading organizations like PNC, Wells Fargo, and Caterpillar to shape next-level business strategies. She's the visionary behind the ELFA's Innovation Advisory Council, where she's influenced industry-wide innovation conversations and helped leaders stay ahead of disruption. A sought-after speaker, author, and advisor, Deb believes the future belongs to those who actively shape it. Recognized as one of the most powerful women in equipment finance, an industry disruptor, and a driving force behind cutting-edge initiatives, she helps leaders harness the power of digital transformation without losing sight of the human element. Connect with Us: Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone Alissa Bartlett on LinkedIn: Alissa Bartlett | LinkedIn

In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host Deborah Reuben chats with AI consultant and innovator Ken Droz about the game-changing shift in how businesses should approach AI. Forget "content is king." Ken argues that context is the real power play in the AI era. He shares his journey from AI curiosity to building automation-driven lead-generation systems and explains why AI isn't about replacing humans, it's about removing friction and unlocking human potential. From practical AI strategies to navigating the rapid pace of change, this conversation will shift your perspective on what's possible. If you're a leader looking to cut through the AI noise and discover real, practical ways to leverage it for business success, this episode is packed with insights, frameworks, and future-ready strategies you can't afford to miss. Ken Droz is an AI consultant, innovator, and co-founder of Botleads AI, where he helps businesses unlock the power of AI to drive growth and efficiency. With a background in AI automation, workflow optimization, and lead generation, Ken has pioneered a four-bot framework that streamlines the entire sales process, from identifying and qualifying leads to closing deals. Passionate about making AI accessible and practical, Ken leads an active AI community and provides hands-on training to help leaders and teams integrate AI into their workflows. His expertise spans AI prompting, automation design, and leveraging large language models to create real business impact. Whether through cutting-edge AI tools or forward-thinking strategies, Ken empowers professionals to embrace AI as a thinking partner, not just a tool, in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Connect with Us: Ken Droz on LinkedIn: Ken Droz | LinkedIn BotLeads.AI Website: BotLeads.AI Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone

Minnesota was once a leader in computing innovation. But today? It ranks near the bottom in STEM education. How did we get here? More importantly, how do we turn it around? In this episode of the TomorrowZone® Catalyst Podcast, host @Deb Reuben sits down with @Shannon Seaver, Executive Director of createMPLS, to discuss the urgent need to rethink STEM education. They explore the transformative role of AI in learning, the power of industry partnerships, and why collaboration, not competition, is the key to fixing the tech talent pipeline. Shannon shares her vision for a future where students from all backgrounds have access to hands-on technology, high-impact learning experiences, and industry connections that set them up for success. This conversation explores how bold partnerships and fresh approaches to education can close the opportunity gap and future-proof the workforce. If you're passionate about preparing the next generation for the future of work, this episode is a must-listen. Shannon Seaver is a bold innovator in technology education, workforce development, and equitable access to opportunity. As Executive Director of createMPLS, she is transforming Minnesota's STEM landscape by eliminating barriers and creating real pathways for future tech talent. A recognized thought leader, Shannon has delivered a TED Talk on AI in education and serves on the Hennepin Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Board, shaping workforce policy. With 18 years of experience in engineering, computer science, and mathematics education, she has received the prestigious Tekne Award and Genesys Works Champion of the Year honors. She co-hosts the Tech Together podcast, bridging the gap between education and industry to tackle Minnesota's STEM crisis. Resources: Shannon's TedTalk: Embracing the future of education: courage to take risks | Shannon Seaver, NBCT | TEDxYouth@Edina Shannon's AI-Assisted Urban Sketch of the Landmark Center: https://tomorrowzone.io/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/shannon-seaver-ai-assisted-urban-sketch-of-the-landmark-center-scaled.jpeg Shannon-Seaver_IMG_8854.jpeg Connect with Us: Shannon Seaver on LinkedIn: Shannon Seaver | LinkedIn createMPLS Website: createMPLS Deb Reuben on LinkedIn: Deborah Reuben | LinkedIn TomorrowZone® Website: TomorrowZone