The Tech Blog Writer Podcast - Inspired Tech Startup Stories & Interviews With Tech Leaders, Entrepreneurs And Innovators

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, Neil delves into the vital world of field service automation with Prateek Chakravarty, CEO of Zinier, a frontrunner in leveraging AI and machine learning to revolutionize field installation and maintenance operations. At the heart of our conversation is Zinier's mission: to make field service organizations more intelligent, efficient, and swift in their response. As the digital age advances, with phenomena like 5G and the boom in IoT devices, data floods in at an unprecedented pace.  The age-old manual methods and legacy solutions are proving inadequate to keep up with the demands of the times. Enter Zinier, with its comprehensive solution that seamlessly merges the back office with the field, ensuring not just the efficient management of tasks but also a transformative touchless field service delivery experience. Prateek passionately discusses technology equity, emphasizing the urgency to level the playing field between desk and frontline workers in terms of technology

In today's episode, I explore the convergence of technology and logistics with Michael Newcity, the CINO and president of ArcBest Technologies. While logistics may not immediately evoke thoughts of high-tech innovation, Michael sheds light on how ArcBest sets new industry standards through technological advancements. ArcBest's commitment to harnessing the power of tech is evident in its groundbreaking Vaux Freight Movement System. This state-of-the-art system comprising software and hardware components is a game changer for the logistics landscape. Michael delves into its ability to drastically reduce the time spent loading and unloading freight — a transformative shift from hours to mere minutes.  The Vaux system's proprietary technology, which seamlessly integrates into existing setups, offers warehouse managers and dock supervisors the tools to supercharge productivity. But that's not all. The software's unique tracking technology ensures real-time visibility, further reinforcing ArcBest's vision of provid

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Trent Fitz, a seasoned veteran in the tech space with over two decades of leadership experience, especially in cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity. As Chief Product Officer of Zenoss, Trent has been at the forefront of technological innovation, steering product strategy, and global marketing. If the terms 'AI' and 'IT Infrastructure Management' get your gears turning, you're in for a treat. We dive deep into how AI is revolutionizing how we manage complex IT ecosystems, encompassing hardware, software, and network devices. From the historical evolution of IT infrastructure management, with a spotlight on mobile and cloud computing, to the pivotal role AI promises to play in the domain - the conversation promises a whirlwind of insights. Remember the days when mobile and cloud computing were the buzzwords? Trent draws from his vast experience to explain how these tech trends have evolved over the past quarter-century and why AI stands to overshadow the

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, I delve into the intriguing world of technology behind wellness products with Jaime Sanchez, VP of Product Development and Manufacturing at Therabody. While many recognize Therabody as a pioneering brand in percussive therapy, few are aware of the intricate tech, rigorous R&D, and science-backed principles that underpin their celebrated products. Jaime peels back the curtain to unveil the thought processes and advanced technologies incorporated to prioritize human needs. From the deployment of rare earth magnets in the Theragun motor for precision pressure control to the innovative use of Cryo-thermal technology that rapidly cools the skin to a consistent 10 Celsius, every facet of product design is meticulously crafted to serve genuine user needs. With patented heart rate sensors, a unique bed design enabling versatile product features like air massages and vibrations, and a commitment to iterative development based on genuine feedback, Therabody sets the bar high

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, we're diving deep into the world of artificial intelligence with Ayesha Iqbal. She is an IEEE Senior Member and Engineering Trainer at Manufacturing Technology Centre, UK. Throughout our discussion, Ayesha uncovers AI's profound influence across many industries, illustrating both the opportunities it presents and the challenges it raises. We delve into the transformative power of AI in healthcare, from genetic code discoveries to robot-assisted surgeries, and how the technology promises to reshape diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. Yet, as with any technological evolution, it's crucial to move forward with caution.  Ayesha highlights the urgent call from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for rigorous oversight, ensuring that AI's integration in healthcare remains safe, effective, and ethically sound. But our AI journey doesn't stop at healthcare. We venture into AI's broader applications, discussing its burgeoning influence in travel, transportation, and even its p

On today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, we're diving deep into the world of cyber resilience with Deryck Mitchelson, Field CISO at Check Point Software. The number is staggering: organisations lost over $2.7 billion in email fraud last year. But should this continue? In our dynamic conversation, Deryck and I explore why many CISOs may be underestimating the threat of email security breaches and how the right security measures can lead to significant cost savings for companies. Amidst the rising tide of cyberattacks and the socio-political turmoil, it's evident that traditional cybersecurity measures are no longer sufficient. Instead, Deryck introduces us to the concept of cyber resilience, where organizations strive to anticipate, withstand, and bounce back from cyber onslaughts. We also discuss the pressing need for organizations to transition from a detection-focused mindset to a prevention-first approach. Central to our conversation is the three C's vital for enhanced cyber resilience: Comprehensive measur

In the latest Tech Talks Daily podcast episode, we sat down with Darryl Adams, Director of Accessibility at Intel. Darryl provides enlightening insights into how Intel is harnessing technology to bridge the accessibility gap, particularly for individuals with hearing disabilities. Here are some of the key takeaways: Global Access to Assistive Technology: In a heartwarming partnership with 3DP4ME, Intel is making strides in increasing the availability of assistive tech in developing countries. A pilot project in Jordan stands as a testament to the potential of this initiative. By employing 3D printing technology, 3DP4ME is equipping children with custom-fitted hearing aids. This not only ensures a better fit but also proves to be a quicker and more cost-effective solution than traditional methods.   Seamless Aid-to-PC Integration: Leveraging the insights from their employees with hearing impairments, Intel's innovative team is closing the compatibility gap that once restricted the full use of hearing aids with

In the rapidly evolving world of data analytics, staying ahead of the curve is essential. Today on Tech Talks Daily, I'm thrilled to have Sumeet Arora from ThoughtSpot to walk us through their game-changing announcements. ThoughtSpot is already renowned for its advanced analytics tool, but with its recent launches, they are truly pushing the boundaries. Dive in with us as we discuss the all-new ThoughtSpot Sage, a search experience that blends foundational language models with ThoughtSpot’s unmatched search technology. Get excited as we unveil its integration into free trials, enhancing accessibility for users everywhere. As businesses globally rely heavily on workplace productivity tools, ThoughtSpot's integrations with giants like Excel and Google Workspace aim to embed analytics right within your everyday workflow. But that's just the start. With Liveboards now enabling real-time collaborative decision-making using data, we examine the tangible benefits this brings to the table. The episode then takes a de

In today's episode, I delve deep into decentralized identity verification with Lars Seier Christensen, Chairman of Concordium. Riding high on the recent announcement of their groundbreaking product, mysome.id, Concordium aims to revolutionize how we perceive and manage digital identities. As a banking industry veteran, Lars brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the ever-evolving realm of blockchain. With mysome.id, Concordium has rolled out a zero-cost alternative to centralized verification models, such as Elon Musk's Twitter Blue.  Initially launching on LinkedIn, mysome.id seeks to tackle some of the most pressing issues in the digital space: fake profiles, data breaches, and the myriad challenges arising from centralized data storage. Lars shares insights into his journey in the cryptocurrency world, stressing the significance of finding a balance between decentralization and essential regulatory requirements. At the heart of Concordium's mission lies a dedication to bolstering security

A recent article by Daron Acemoglu and Simon Johnson painted a somewhat grim picture of AI and its implications, stirring significant controversy within the tech community. Today's episode dives deep into the ongoing debate about AI technology's potential risks and rewards. I welcome Shomron Jacob, Head of Applied Machine Learning and Platform at Iterate.ai, to offer a fresh perspective. Shomron provides a nuanced view of AI, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the diversity and dynamism inherent in AI technologies, the actors involved, and their contexts. One of the highlights of our conversation will be AI's potential as a leveling force. How can this revolutionary technology prevent monopolies, especially in the saturated tech sector? Shomron sheds light on how AI is democratizing opportunities for businesses of all sizes, with a special focus on smaller companies. Our exploration wouldn't be complete without discussing the innovations at Iterate.ai. We'll delve into how they're harnessing AI to acce

Today, I have the pleasure of reconnecting with Rob Scott, a multifaceted figure in the world of technology, cybersecurity, sports, and entrepreneurship. Since their last conversation, there have been seismic shifts in Rob's journey. Notably, Cygilant's acquisition by SilverSky and Rob's ascent to their Chief Strategy Officer. Journey with us as Rob delves deep into the cybersecurity arena, revealing the challenges the industry grappled with during the pandemic. He unveils the expansion of their security operation centers post the CyberX acquisition and emphasizes the essence of cybersecurity education. Listen closely as Rob warns of the lurking dangers of phishing emails and stresses the necessity for businesses to embed cybersecurity in their core strategic plans. But that's not all! From the race tracks of Formula One to the thrill of entrepreneurship, Rob gives us a glimpse of his diverse past. He introduces us to his latest passion project, "Let's Go Racing". A venture that interweaves technology, cybers

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I dive into the innovative world of hospitality technology with Austen Asadorian from SevenRooms. With a mission to revolutionize the dining experience, SevenRooms has unveiled its latest product feature, Pre-Shift – a game-changer for the restaurant industry.  As labor shortages continue challenging the sector, Pre-Shift emerges as the beacon of efficiency. This cutting-edge tool empowers restaurant teams globally by streamlining pre-service meetings, replacing tedious paper reports with dynamic, real-time data presentations about each guest for the upcoming shift. Listen in as Austen elaborates on how Pre-Shift harnesses rich customer data to offer invaluable insights like dining preferences, allergy information, and past reviews. This tool is not just about logistics but about enhancing the diner's journey from the moment they step in, making each experience truly personalized.  Highlighting its user-friendly design, Neil and Austen discuss the platform’s capability to

In this enlightening episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Thorsten Neumann from SC Ventures, the innovation engine behind Standard Chartered Bank. As the force overseeing technology at SC Ventures, Thorsten plays a pivotal role in seeking out disruptive business models and state-of-the-art technologies that are reshaping the financial services sector.  Throughout our discussion, we delve deep into the multifaceted roles of SC Ventures, ranging from investment to incubation, and highlight the symbiotic relationship with startups that fuels groundbreaking innovation and sharpens investment decisions. We also unpack the strategy behind the identification of game-changing business paradigms, focusing on a quintet of defining themes such as the burgeoning online economy, the role of digital assets, the future of SME and World Trade, and the imperative of sustainability and inclusivity.  With the VC landscape itself on the cusp of change, we discuss the ascent of technologies like blockchain, AI, and the ta

In this episode, I sit down with none other than the 'Godfather of Martech', Scott Brinker. Don't believe the title? A quick Google search will validate that claim! Before HubSpot, Scott's leadership as the co-founder and CTO of ion Interactive set the gold standard for interactive content, serving titans like Cisco, Dell, and Microsoft. Currently steering the ship at HubSpot as the Vice President of its Platform Ecosystem, Scott's vast expertise encompasses shaping platform strategies and fostering global technological partnerships. We discuss the essence of versatility in the tech stack: Why businesses should embrace diverse tools and bypass restrictive competitive overlaps. On the subject of the IT-Marketing Evolution, we explore how "no-code" has emerged as the marketer's secret weapon, empowering them to keep pace with rapid industry changes minus the constant IT hand-holding. We also talk about marrying AI with marketing and discuss the monumental potential of AI in content creation, software interactio

Today, I welcome Steve Stathis Tzikakis, the dynamic CEO of Sitecore, a visionary in digital transformation with a legacy that spans continents and industries. Steve, a stalwart of the tech industry since the '90s, boasts a glittering track record, from his 13-year tenure at SAP - where he helmed its monumental growth across the EMEA South region, to his present role at Sitecore, where he is revolutionizing the way brands perceive and deliver digital experiences. In this enlightening episode, we reminisce about their last meeting at the Sitecore Symposium 2022 in Chicago. We delve into how brands have had to shift gears over the past six months, emphasizing the increasing importance of agility, scaling content, and delivering impeccable digital experiences at the speed of light.  The conversation takes a financial turn as we also discuss the remarkable $1.2 billion investment in Sitecore in 2021. Against economic unpredictability, this investment has been a beacon, propelling consistent global growth. Steve e

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, I am joined by Michael Burdick, Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Paro, the disruptive startup changing how companies connect with on-demand financial talent. Burdick, a leading authority in the freelance marketplace industry, will delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and freelancing, a domain where he sees a promising future for AI. Freelance marketplaces have often found it difficult to compete with larger, more established Managed Service Providers (MSPs), due to concerns around risk, security, compliance, and potential misclassification lawsuits. Michael, however, believes in the power of AI to level the playing field. Through Paro, he has demonstrated how AI can help these platforms not only compete but also scale and disrupt the industry. Throughout the conversation, we explore the challenges faced by freelance marketplaces in competing with traditional MSPs, and how AI can be a game-changer. They also delve into the transformative impac

Today, I'm joined by Chris Ebeling, an industry-renowned animator, creative director, writer, and digital artist who recently joined Behaviol's leadership team. Chris shares insights from his extensive experience, having worked on Hollywood blockbusters and AAA gaming cinematic productions, as well as innovative projects such as ZED.RUN, a blockchain-based, digital horse racing game. We explore the fascinating world of Behaviol, a tech studio at the cutting edge of sports gaming. Behaviol stands out with its revolutionary use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to create unique digital athletes. Starting with their flagship game, META11, they're pioneering the world's first free-to-play triple-A sports gaming omniverse, which is set to transform the sports entertainment industry. Join us as we delve into the intricate use of AI to train digital avatars in META11, discuss the ethical considerations of integrating AI in gaming, and predict how AI and digital avatars are going to reshape the future o

On this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with William Glazier, an expert from Cequence Security to delve into the ins and outs of the groundbreaking "API Protection Report: Holiday Build-up Shows 550% Jump in Unique Threats." This revealing report is based on an analysis of approximately a trillion transactions spanning a variety of industries and uncovers the pressing API threat trends that are currently challenging organizations. We unpack key findings, such as a 900% spike in shadow APIs, a worrying 550% increase in unique threats during the holiday season, and a surprising revelation that API and web application security tactics are being combined by attackers, leading to a 220% increase in anomalous traffic. Join us as we dive deep into the conversation about the vital role of API security in today's digital landscape and how Cequence Security stands out with its history of mitigating bot attacks and its keen focus on both risk analysis and blocking malicious traffic. We'll also explore the alarmi

In today's digitized world, the security of our data is paramount. Understanding the complexity of data breaches and developing robust security strategies can often be a challenging task for businesses. To shed light on this critical issue, I'm thrilled to have Terry Ray from Imperva, a global leader in cybersecurity, on Tech Talks Daily. Terry brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion, focusing on the key findings from Imperva's '100 Data Breaches Findings' report. We delve into the root causes of data breaches, from hacking and unsecured databases to the prevalent menace of social engineering. We also examine the types of data most frequently targeted by cybercriminals and identify the industries most susceptible to these attacks. In our conversation, Terry underscores the importance of comprehensive data security strategies, emphasizing the need for monitoring all data activity and not just a few servers. He shares valuable insights into common oversights in data security, such as the lack of multi-fa

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I'm joined by Hugo Bergmann from Seagate, a global leader in data storage solutions, to tackle a significant problem facing today's businesses: the rising and often unsustainable costs of data storage. According to recent statistics, more than half of British businesses' IT leaders are grappling with the spiraling costs of data storage, which are becoming untenable. With some companies spending as much as £231k per year, many businesses are compelled to delete data that could potentially unlock revenue-generating innovation, a decision they can ill-afford in a world where data is king. What's worse, over half of IT leaders believe their senior leadership remains oblivious to the magnitude of the problem. During our discussion, Hugo and I delve into this pressing issue, exploring how the current global economic crisis has exacerbated the need to curb data costs without losing the valuable insights that data offers. We shed light on the necessity of better data management an