This week on That Tech Pod, Laura and Kevin sit down with Emily Chase Coleman, a leading voice in higher ed analytics, to talk about how data, AI, and shifting policy are transforming the college experience.

We kick things off with a look at predictive analytics in enrollment and financial aid. Emily shares the most common misconceptions schools still have about AI, and how generative tools are forcing colleges to rethink academic integrity, fairness, and even the rules around who gets to use AI, and when.

As the conversation turns to policy and student loans, Emily weighs in on recent headlines about aid cuts and loan forgiveness battles. She explains how these changes are already affecting how institutions plan for the future, and why equity needs to be at the center of it. We also talk about cybersecurity and student privacy. With ransomware attacks on the rise and more schools moving to the cloud, Emily talks about how institutions can balance being data-driven with protecting student information. Spoiler: most aren’t investing enough in cyber defenses. We also look ahead to the next decade. What does the “smart campus” of 2035 look like? How can colleges move from being data-aware to truly data-informed? And if Emily could change just one thing about how universities use data today, what would it be?

Emily Chase Coleman is a visionary in higher education analytics, reshaping how institutions use data to drive strategy. As the Co-founder and CEO of HAI Analytics Inc., she helps colleges and universities make informed, data-backed decisions about enrollment, financial aid, and student success. With over 20 years in higher education leadership and a PhD in Social Psychology and Statistics from Cornell, Emily is uniquely positioned to bridge the gap between data science and institutional strategy.

At HAI Analytics, Emily is leading the charge in making predictive modeling and data visualization tools more accessible to university decision-makers. Her team has developed an innovative software-with-service platform, empowering institutions to use analytics for long-term sustainability without relying on full-time consultants. Emily is also a strong advocate for education reform, challenging outdated models in admissions and financial aid. She critiques the high-price, high-discount tuition system for exacerbating socioeconomic disparities and pushes for test-optional admissions to promote equity in college access.

Beyond higher education, Emily champions women in leadership and tech, sharing insights from her journey as a female founder in edtech and data analytics. She is passionate about increasing representation in STEM and creating pathways for women entrepreneurs.

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In this week's episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Evan J. Schwartz, Chief Innovation Officer at AMCS Group, to explore where AI is actually making a difference and where it’s doing real harm. From logistics and sustainability to law enforcement and digital identity, we dig into how AI is being used (and misused) in ways that affect millions of lives.

We talk about a real-world case Evan worked on involving predictive analytics in law enforcement, and the dangers of trusting databases more than people. If someone hacks your digital footprint or plants fake records, how do you prove you're not the person your data says you are? We dive into the Karen Read case, the ethics of “precrime” models like in Minority Report, and a story where AI helped thieves trick a bank into wiring $40 million. The common thread? We’ve put a lot of faith in data... sometimes more than it deserves.

With the EU AI Act now passed and other countries tightening regulation, Evan offers advice on how U.S.-based companies should prepare for a future where AI governance isn’t optional. He also breaks down “dark AI” and whether we’re getting close to machines making life-altering decisions without humans in the loop. Whether you're in tech, law, policy, or just trying to understand how AI might impact your own rights and identity, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how fast things are moving and what we might be missing.

Evan J. Schwartz brings over 35 years of experience in enterprise tech and digital transformation. At AMCS Group, he leads innovation efforts focused on AI, data science, and sustainability in the logistics and resource recovery industries. He’s held executive roles in operations, architecture, and M&A, and also teaches graduate courses in AI, cybersecurity, and project management. Evan serves on the Forbes Tech Council and advises at Jacksonville University. He’s also the author of People, Places, and Things, an Amazon best-seller on ERP implementation. His work blends technical depth with a sharp focus on ethics and real-world impact.

Today is a very special episode. It is our 250th episode! 

To celebrate, Laura and Kevin sit down with Dikshant Dave, a three-time founder and current CEO of Zigment, to explore the next frontier in AI, Agentic AI. Dikshant breaks down what sets Zigment apart in the crowded marketing tech world and explains how Agentic AI systems do more than just automate, they learn, adapt, and make decisions on the fly.

The conversation touches on his journey through multiple startups, the challenges of balancing innovation with privacy, and the industries where AI is just getting started. Dikshant shares sharp takes on job displacement, the ethics of extracting personal data, and what transparency in AI really looks like. He also dives into a big question: Can empathy be automated? And should it be? Plus, hear what kind of startup he’d build next, and who he’d begrudgingly? choose to be stuck in an elevator with. 

It’s a thoughtful, funny, and wide-ranging conversation with someone who’s not just building tech, but rethinking how it fits into the real world.

Dikshant Dave is the CEO of Zigment, a marketing automation platform built around Agentic AI—intelligent systems that go beyond automation to actively learn, adapt, and make decisions across every customer touchpoint. With Zigment, he’s redefining how businesses engage with customers by combining proactive AI with human insight to drive measurable impact: higher lead conversion, smarter workflows, and stronger ROI. A three-time founder with a background in startups like CureJoy and Funstar, Dikshant has made a career out of pushing the boundaries of what tech can do. His latest work focuses on the rise of AI agents, the future of personalization at scale, and how businesses can tap into AI without losing the human touch. He's also passionate about using AI for good, most recently through Zigment’s nonprofit partnership with Give.org.

In this episode of That Tech Pod, Kevin and Laura dig into the Gemini Credit Card, a flashy, crypto-backed rewards card created by the Winklevoss twins and issued by WebBank and Mastercard. Is it a smart move for crypto enthusiasts or just another fintech gimmick?

We break down the card’s history, perks, and pitfalls: you’ll earn up to 4% back in crypto on everyday purchases, choose from 60+ cryptocurrencies, and enjoy no annual fees. But while the concept is solid, users report some real concerns including slow customer service, transaction issues, and tricky tax implications. We compare Gemini to the Chase Sapphire Reserve and debate whether instant crypto rewards outweigh the lack of travel perks and occasional service headaches. We read actual user reviews, share personal experiences, and reflect on the broader trend of crypto creeping into everyday finance.

Is the Gemini card a useful tool for passive crypto investing or a volatile ride best avoided? Tune in for the full breakdown. Plus and hear about that time Laura got unlimited coffee and went to a Ja Rule party thanks to another infamous credit card, Magnesis.

On this episode of That Tech Pod, Laura and Kevin chat with Alex Heublein, President of Culture and Innovation at Netsurit, about what it actually takes for small and midsize businesses to modernize their tech without getting overwhelmed. Alex has spent time at major companies like IBM and Oracle, but he makes it clear why working with SMBs is often more rewarding: they’re nimble, adaptable, and ready to try new things, as long as those things make sense.

They dig into Netsurit’s approach to “Innovate as a Service,” a subscription-style model built around co-innovation, outcomes, and a mindset shift from traditional consulting. Alex also shares his framework for helping clients navigate the noise around AI, how to pick the right use cases, and why some businesses are better off waiting before diving in.

The conversation touches on everything from AI ethics and return on investment to why culture and tech have to evolve together. Plus, there’s a lighthearted trivia round on the inventors behind the internet, some talk about the future of augmented reality glasses, and a few laughs along the way. If you’ve ever wondered how to actually apply AI without just chasing trends, or what makes an IT partner worth working with, this one’s worth a listen.

Alex Heublein is the President of Culture and Innovation at Netsurit, where he focuses on helping small and midsize businesses navigate digital transformation, cybersecurity, and operational growth through practical, forward-thinking technology solutions. With a strong background in both business strategy and technical leadership, Alex has held senior executive roles at major tech companies including IBM, HP, Oracle, and Red Hat. His experience spans innovation strategy, IT modernization, cloud services, and organizational culture development. At Netsurit, he leads efforts to blend culture with technology, ensuring that companies not only adopt new tools but also build the internal mindset and processes to make them work.

In this episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Bob Bodily, founder of Odin.fun, to talk about the wild ride of memecoins, Bitcoin's evolving role in the crypto ecosystem, and what the future might hold for decentralized tech. Bob breaks down how Odin.fun is rethinking the Bitcoin experience, from instant token creation to a gasless, wallet-agnostic interface that’s pulling in tens of thousands of users.

We discuss the growing risks in crypto including wallet drains, scams, and design flaws, and ask what platforms can do to protect users without killing the fun. Bob shares his thoughts on whether the rise of meme-driven platforms is a cultural shift or just another hype cycle, and weighs in on Bitcoin’s potential to support more complex applications without abandoning its core stability.

There’s also plenty of banter: Laura's optimism, Kevin’s crypto skepticism, and Bob’s grounded take on what’s real, what’s broken, and what could be next. Whether you’re a degenerate trader or just crypto-curious, this one gives you a smart, honest look at what’s going on under the hood.

Bob Bodily is the founder of Odin.fun, which pioneered instant memecoin creation and trading on Bitcoin and offers 2-second finality.

With Odin.fun, Bob has shown what’s possible with Bitcoin and helped silence the narrative that the network isn’t fast enough. After the first two months of operation, the platform amassed more than 60K users, 3000+ BTC in trading volume, and 15k+ tokens created, with 150+ hitting bonded status. Unlike Solana’s model, Odin.fun offers a gasless experience through chain abstraction tech, enables logins with any Bitcoin wallet, and uses a single-canister system to streamline operations. It’s a fresh take on Bitcoin’s capabilities, hinting at the broader potential for programmability on the network, which Bob can highlight to underscore the capabilities of the Bitcoin-native Layer 0 interoperability protocol.

On this episode of That Tech Pod, Laura and Kevin sit down with Alexander Patrushev, Head of Product for AI/ML at Nebius, a European cloud platform focused on machine learning infrastructure. Kicking things off, we unpack the buzz around China’s fully AI-powered “Agent Hospital,” raising questions about what role AI should play in medicine. Laura also shares a personal rant about navigating the healthcare system in search of real answers.

Then, Alex joins from Luxembourg to explain what Nebius does, who it's built for, and how it helps companies tackle ML workloads. He breaks down the common mistakes teams make when launching ML projects and why success depends more on people and processes than just tech. The conversation also goes into whether companies should host their own LLMs or use pay-per-token APIs, and how to approach that decision. Looking ahead, Alex challenges the idea that AI is inherently hard and shares what businesses should really be focusing on, from smarter software to evolving hardware needs, as AI infrastructure continues to grow. It's a thoughtful, practical look at the future of AI from someone who builds the tools to power it.

Alexander Patrushev is an experienced IT leader with over 15 years in the industry, including the past six focused on artificial intelligence. He currently serves as Head of Product for AI/ML at Nebius, a European cloud platform designed for building and deploying machine learning workloads. Based in Luxembourg, Alexander is known for his practical approach to solving real-world challenges faced by AI practitioners. He’s especially focused on delivering user-centric, innovative solutions, and believes strongly in the importance of in-house R&D to drive product excellence and stay ahead in a fast-moving space.

In this episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Fredrik Nilsson, Vice President of the Americas for Axis Communications, to talk about the intersection of surveillance technology, cybersecurity, and ethical innovation.

Fredrik reflects on his rare 30-year tenure with Axis, explaining how a strong company culture and a constant focus on innovation have kept him committed. He shares his journey from Sweden to the U.S., noting how working in both regions has influenced his leadership style, bringing together Sweden’s emphasis on collaboration with the U.S. drive for growth and execution.

For listeners unfamiliar with Axis, Fredrik explains that the company pioneered the shift from analog CCTV to digital network video and continues to lead by developing open, scalable, and secure surveillance solutions. What sets Axis apart, he says, is their long-term approach to partnerships, transparency, and quality, plus a strong emphasis on ethical technology use. Looking ahead, Fredrik is excited about how AI and machine learning are transforming surveillance, not just for traditional security purposes but across sectors like retail, healthcare, and transportation. He shares how Axis is applying analytics in creative ways, from optimizing store layouts to improving patient safety in hospitals.

The conversation also tackles serious topics around cybersecurity and privacy. Fredrik acknowledges the tension between advancing surveillance capabilities and the risks they can bring. He discusses Axis’ approach to building trust with customers, through transparency, strict data handling policies, and a focus on responsible AI use. In the face of increasing threats like state-sponsored cyberattacks and deepfakes, Axis is investing heavily in secure systems and client education.

And, as a lighter note, Laura kicks things off by sharing her unique connection to Sweden: buying wildlife calendars on Kickstarter from a guy who photographs animals in his yard. 

Vice President of the Americas for Axis Communications, Fredrik Nilsson oversees the company’s operations in North and South America and serves on the global management team. In his 25+ year’s at Axis, he has undertaken various roles in both Sweden and the United States and has been instrumental in leading the surveillance industry shift from analog closed-circuit television to network video. Since assuming responsibility for the Americas in 2003, revenues in the region have grown from $20M to $1B, due in part to a focus on increasing Axis' presence in the market by opening more than sixteen Axis Experience Centers throughout the region. 

This week on the pod, Laura and Kevin discuss what’s shaping up to be the biggest Bitcoin event of the year: Bitcoin 2025, happening May 27–29 at The Venetian in Las Vegas. With over 30,000 attendees and 400+ speakers, it’s more than a conference - it’s a full-on Bitcoin takeover. 

We are joined by Justin Doochin, one of the conference organizer. He says to expect a mix of Bitcoiners, developers, investors, policymakers, and curious newcomers. People come to network, share ideas, and get a pulse on where Bitcoin is headed. This year’s “Code & Country” track kicks off Industry Day, focusing on the intersection of policy, technology, and innovation. Laura asks if Trump will show, Justin shares that while President Donald Trump isn't on the speaker list, his sons Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr. are confirmed to speak about capitalism, Bitcoin, and economic sovereignty. Ross Ulbricht, the founder of Silk Road, will make his first public appearance since being released from prison earlier this year. He’s set to speak at the conference, marking a significant moment for many in the Bitcoin community.

The conference aims to set a Guinness World Record for the most Bitcoin point-of-sale transactions in eight hours. It’s a bold move to showcase Bitcoin’s potential as a daily-use currency. This year's event is set to be high-energy, with a mix of serious discussions and celebratory moments. It’s a place where ideas are exchanged, and the future of Bitcoin is debated and envisioned. Laura also speculates if Bitcoin Hit $150K or $200K in 2025.

Justin is offering our listeners a 30% discount on all Bitcoin 2025 passes. Use the code: TECHPOD30 at checkout: https://bm.b.tc/TECHPOD30.

For more details and to register for the conference, visit the official conference site: https://b.tc/conference/2025.

In this week's episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Susana Cabrera, Global Head of Channel and Alliances at Parsec Automation, for a conversation that bridges manufacturing, technology, and strategic leadership. With a career spanning tech giants like SAP and CISCO, Susana shares how her path led to Parsec and why the company’s mission to modernize manufacturing resonated with her.

Susana breaks down what Parsec does to empower manufacturers through digital transformation and explores why innovation in this space is not just necessary - it’s overdue. She goes into the real-world applications of AI in industrial settings, separating the hype from the real opportunities. For a deeper dive on that topic, check out Parsec’s blog post: What AI Can Do for Manufacturers Right Now.

The episode also tackles big-picture topics like global supply chain disruptions, shifting manufacturing strategies, and the technologies that will reshape partner ecosystems in the years ahead. Plus, the we discuss the controversial topic of bagged olives (spoiler: Susana’s a fan), and the conversation wraps with a powerful message: let technology be an enabler, not a barrier—just don’t forget that humans still drive the business.

As Parsec's Global Head of Channel and Alliances, Susana Cabrera leverages her nearly 30 years of experience in business development, channel teams, and professional services to drive growth and innovation. Having previously worked at companies like SAP and CISCO, Susana excels at aligning partner strategies with customer needs, ensuring that clear communication and collaboration lead to measurable business outcomes. Driven by a passion for strategy, execution, and delivering business outcomes, Susana thrives at the intersection of partner-led growth, innovation, and operational excellence.

On this week’s episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Nandan Nayampally, the Chief Commercial Officer at Baya, to discuss the shifting landscape of intelligent computing and the hidden challenges behind AI innovation.

Nandan kicks things off by demystifying what Baya actually does, solving the critical problem of data movement, a growing bottleneck that traditional compute-focused architectures can't keep up with. With a rich background that includes scaling Arm’s processor business from $200M to billions and playing key roles at AMD, Amazon (Alexa), and neuromorphic AI startups like Brainchip and Tenstorrent, Nandan offers a unique perspective on where hardware truly sits at the heart of today's AI revolution. He unpacks one of the most misunderstood aspects of AI development: while flashy models grab the headlines, it's the hardware, and even more critically, how data flows across chips, that will define the next generation of intelligent systems. As he explains, we’re moving from a compute problem to a data movement problem, and Baya is right at the center of that inflection point. Laura and Kevin also get Nandan’s expert map of the chip landscape, from Nvidia’s dominant position to Intel, Arm, AWS, and where Baya fits in. Spoiler alert: Baya isn’t trying to out-muscle the big players but to fundamentally enhance and rethink architectures for a world driven by AI at scale.

Nandan also talks about the next big frontier as a hybrid between cloud and edge AI, with massive commercial opportunities tied to how efficiently and securely we can process data wherever it’s generated. He offers a thoughtful, non-political perspective on how escalating tariffs on Chinese goods could impact the semiconductor supply chain, AI innovation, and global data privacy. Along the way, the conversation touches on chiplets, SoC (system-on-chip) trends, and, what he really thinks about Nvidia.

If you care about the future of AI, semiconductors, or where the real innovation is happening behind the scenes, this is a must-listen episode.

Nandan Nayampally is the Chief Commercial Officer at Baya that runs Product
Management, Marketing Communication, Business Development, Sales and Strategic Alliances. Nandan has consistently been passionate about disruptive technologies and being in the eye of the storm in semiconductor inflection points. While he’s had various start up stints in neuromorphic AI at Brain chip, Tenstorrent and Denali Software, a major part of Nandan’s career involved growing Arm’s processor business from $200M to into the $billions, and expanding its reach from the mobile and consumer markets to automotive, networking infrastructure, data center and AI. During his time, Arm’s customers shipped more than a 150B process-based chips. He also had meaningful stints at AMD and Amazon on scaling Alexa into 3rd party devices.

This week, Kevin and Laura sit down with seasoned entrepreneur and executive leader Haresh Bhungalia. With over two decades of experience building, scaling, and exiting successful companies, Haresh shares the journey that led him from a paper route to leading Casepoint, a major player in the eDiscovery space.

Haresh walks us through Casepoint’s growth story, the biggest challenges he faced scaling the company, and the factors that drove its success. We dive into Casepoint’s recent merger with OPEXUS, backed by Thoma Bravo, and discuss why Haresh chose this moment, after years of resisting outside funding, to make the move. He also opens up about stepping down as CEO, choosing new leadership, and what's next for him, hinting at everything from startup investing to maybe even sailing off into the sunset. Beyond his personal story, Haresh offers powerful insights into the future of legal tech, how leaders can stay aligned with customer needs, and his best advice for founders scaling teams or navigating the tricky balance between aggressive growth and strategic reflection. Plus, Kevin and Laura share their dreams of running an AI company or a grocery store.

You won’t want to miss this conversation packed with leadership lessons, well-earned advice, and a glimpse into the future of eDiscovery.

Haresh Bhungalia is a seasoned entrepreneur and CEO with over 20 years of executive leadership experience. He has a proven track record of building, scaling, and successfully exiting businesses. As a strategic leader, Haresh is dedicated to driving customer growth, enhancing engagement, and fostering a company culture based on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. He strongly believes that prioritizing the employee experience leads to superior customer outcomes and, ultimately, greater value creation. His most recent exit was Casepoint, an enterprise data discovery platform, which was successfully sold to private equity firm Thoma Bravo.

This week on That Tech Pod, Laura and Kevin sit down with tech veteran and AI thought leader Ken Gavranovic, CEO of Product Genius, for a lively and insightful conversation that spans ethics, innovation, and the occasional Terminator reference.

Ken opens up about his challenging childhood, sharing how it sparked a passion for technology and a desire to build tools that could truly make a difference, much like the kid in the movie War Games. From early fumbles in fax software that made others millions but netted him nothing to working with tech giants like Disney and 7-Eleven, Ken walks us through his evolution into the AI space and why he believes AI will have the most substantial impact on humanity. 

We talk about ethical AI and data privacy, especially when it comes to children and younger audiences, how to leverage AI insights without drowning in data and the key contrasts in AI adoption between big corporations and smaller businesses. Laura and Ken geek out about functional health, from UV-cap water bottles to proactive blood testing to the very real fears (ahem, Laura) about robot uprisings from a tangent on the movie Smart House, the series Cassandra and The Terminator movies. Plus, we discuss recycled toilet paper and sustainability with a shoutout to Who Gives a Crap, and wrap things up with a peek into Ken’s Amazon best-seller, Business Breakthrough 3.0, a must-read for any leader navigating digital transformation. Tune in for an episode that’s smart, human, and just the right amount of tech-weird.

Ken Gavranovic is a global keynote speaker, a seasoned technology executive, and the CEO of Product Genius, where he leads the development of AI-powered tools that transform real-time data into actionable customer insights, driving service improvements and operational efficiency. With over two decades of experience, Ken has helped businesses—from startups to global brands like Disney World and 7-Eleven—leverage cutting-edge tech to achieve measurable results. He has led 18 successful exits, 35 mergers and acquisitions, and an IPO, and has held key executive roles at New Relic and Cox Automotive. A global keynote speaker and member of Thinkers50 and the Forbes Council, Ken is also a co-author of the Amazon best-seller Business Breakthrough 3.0, a practical guide for leaders navigating digital transformation and scaling operations.

In our final segment of our Legalweek series, Laura and Kevin hit the floor to chat with two folks from Verbit - Matan Barak, Head of Legal Products and JP Son, Chief Legal Officer, for an insightful dive into the evolution of AI in legal transcription and the broader implications for the industry.  

We first hear their origin story, being founded with the mission to make transcription more efficient, accessible, and intelligent. They share how the company emerged from the need for faster, more accurate transcription services, especially in high-stakes environments like the legal world. As the conversation turns toward AI, we learn how machine learning is transforming transcription, enhancing turnaround times, enabling real-time insights, and supporting legal professionals with features like inconsistency detection, intelligent search, and summarization through Verbit's Legal Visor.  

But with great power comes great responsibility. they address growing concerns around deepfakes and misinformation, explaining how Verbit ensures the authenticity and accuracy of its AI-assisted transcriptions with rigorous quality checks and compliance protocols.  Matan sheds light on how Verbit’s models are trained to understand regional dialects and legal-specific jargon, ensuring that nuance is never lost, even in complex, technical discussions. The pair also tackle the hot topic: Will AI replace human court reporters? 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of legal tech, AI, and the future of court reporting.  

Matan Barak is the Head of Legal Products at Verbit, with over a decade of experience leading AI-driven solutions to market. He played a key role in conceptualizing and developing Verbit Legal Visor, a real-time intelligence platform for litigators that enhances legal professionals' efficiency with AI-powered insights, including inconsistency detection, intelligent search, and summaries to help secure better case outcomes.

JP Son has served as Verbit’s Chief Legal Officer since December 2021, with responsibility for the company’s global legal affairs, including in the areas of regulatory compliance, privacy, intellectual property, commercial, M&A, governance and employment. Previously, Son was Vice President, Legal at Vonage Holdings Corp. (VG), where he was responsible for global regulatory, privacy and intellectual property matters. He also served as lead counsel for Vonage’s API Platform group. Prior to Vonage, Son was in private practice at a global law firm based in New York. Son received his undergraduate degree in computer science from Cornell University and his J.D. from Columbia Law School.

Verbit is a verbal intelligence platform leveraged by 3,000+ businesses and institutions. Our suite of voice AI solutions are used to capture everyday exchanges, better understand the information shared and apply these insights in daily work. Verbit was founded in 2017 in Tel Aviv on the insight that attorneys were spending too much time and money on inaccurate transcripts. The team then uncovered how many more industries could benefit from access to accurate transcripts. By combining automatic speech recognition technology (ASR) with the expert human transcribers, Verbit has transformed a $30B transcription industry. The company has grown into one of the world’s largest transcription and closed captioning providers with offices in the US, Canada, UK, and Israel.

In the second episode of our Legalweek series, Laura and Kevin sit down with Matt Berry and Greg Anderson from QuikData, a company challenging the status quo in the legal tech space. Matt shares QuikData’s mission to offer low-cost, on-premise eDiscovery solutions, bucking the industry’s shift toward cloud-only platforms. Alongside him, Greg, VP of Product and Client Services, brings his 20+ years of legal tech experience to the conversation, offering insights into how QuikData prioritizes security, affordability, and convenience for corporations and law firms.

We learn about their origin story, tracing back to their first venture, Lateral Data, and the development of Viewpoint, an eDiscovery platform ultimately acquired by Xerox. Matt and Greg discuss how those early experiences shaped their vision for QuikData. We also discuss the role of AI in the industry, how it’s reshaping workflows, and QuikData’s practical approach to leveraging AI to enhance, not replace human decision-making in complex legal processes. This episode delivers a refreshing perspective on innovation, security, and the power of going against the grain.

Matt Berry is an attorney, serial entrepreneur, and co-founder of QuikData, a platform rethinking how legal teams manage eDiscovery and secure collaboration. Before QuikData, Matt co-founded Lateral Data, where he and his team developed Viewpoint, an end-to-end eDiscovery solution focused on on-premises and enterprise deployments. Earlier in his career, Matt co-founded Diamed with his wife Simone—a mail delivery medical supply company that served over 30,000 patients nationwide with diabetes testing supplies and related products. A graduate of Rice University, Matt is also a former Division I tennis player and still finds time to stay active on the court. His diverse background across industries informs his thoughtful approach to building tools that solve real-world problems.

Greg Anderson serves as the Vice President of Product and Client Services at QuikData. With over twenty years of experience in legal technology, he specializes in the design and application of E-Discovery solutions, enjoying the challenge of problem solving by leveraging both traditional and non-traditional approaches to address complex or unique problems. His background includes key product management roles at Lateral Data and Conduent, and prior to joining QuikData, he led an E-Discovery Project Management team at Norton Rose Fulbright, where he focused on multinational matters.

QuikData is a software development company specializing in eDiscovery and data room solutions for legal service providers, law firms, corporate legal departments, and financial institutions. Founded in 2016 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, QuikData offers intuitive and powerful tools designed to streamline complex legal data management tasks. ​Their flagship product, Quik E-Discovery, is an end-to-end platform that facilitates the entire electronic discovery process, including data processing, analysis, review, and production. 

In this week’s episode, Land and Kevin take you inside Legalweek 2025 for a no-holds-barred recap of the biggest legal tech event of the year. We break down the good—the insightful sessions, the exciting product launches, and the incredible people we met. We also cover the bad—from conference logistics to some less-than-stellar booth experiences. And of course, we get into the ugly—including the controversial decision to move Legalweek from its long-time home at the Hilton to the Javits Center in 2026, marking the end of an era.

We hit the exhibit hall, highlighting standout vendors, unforgettable swag (yes, we’re ranking the best and worst giveaways!), and key trends shaping the legal tech landscape.

Plus, we sit down with Josh Janow, CEO of SMI Aware, for a chat on what makes them unique in the world of social media discovery. Josh shares how SMI Aware’s proprietary technology and expert analysis help legal teams uncover and preserve critical open-source data, ensuring compliance and strategic insights in discovery, due diligence, and risk management.

If you missed Legalweek or just want the inside scoop, this episode has everything you need!

Josh Janow is the CEO of SMI Aware, a leader in social media and open-source data discovery. His company specializes in researching, collecting, and preserving publicly available information to support legal, HR, and compliance teams in discovery, due diligence, and risk management.

With a career dedicated to leveraging data for strategic decision-making, Josh has led SMI Aware in providing critical insights that shape client strategies. Previously, he served as General Counsel and later President of gategroup North America, overseeing a $1B operation with 10,000+ employees. His leadership during industry disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic, drove significant restructuring and growth. Josh began his career at Weil, Gotshal & Manges, developing expertise in legal and business strategy.

Today Kevin and Laura sit down with Kirk Hanson, a seasoned Sales Engineering leader with an impressive career spanning industry giants like SentinelOne, Splunk, BMC, and IBM. From kicking things off with a nostalgic nod to Hanson’s MMMBop to deep insights on the evolution of sales engineering, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and career-defining moments.

Kirk shares how his journey into tech started with an unexpected edge—his fluency in Japanese—and how strong mentorship shaped his path. He goes into the balancing act of technical expertise and business acumen in sales engineering, how AI and automation are reshaping the field, and why human connection remains irreplaceable in building customer trust. We also explore trends in cybersecurity, cloud, and big data, including a candid discussion on false positives at SentinelOne. Kirk reflects on his time at Splunk, where he co-founded the Solution Architect team, and the impact of international experience on data privacy and cybersecurity strategies. Kirk offers advice for aspiring sales engineers, leadership lessons from his global career, and a glimpse into what’s next for him. Oh, and a friendly reminder: never miss your one-on-ones with your employees.

But it’s not all business—we make some fun detours into pop culture, from Office Space’s infamous “Jump to Conclusions” mat to Laura’s struggles with her futuristic WalkCar from Japan. Plus, Kirk shares his passion for supporting the Navy SEAL Foundation and his ongoing quest to collect challenge coins. Tune in for an engaging, insightful, and laugh-filled conversation with one of the best in the business!

Kirk Hanson is a highly experienced Sales Engineering Manager with over 20 years of expertise leading sales engineering teams at top software companies such as SentinelOne, Splunk, BMC, and IBM. Specializing in cybersecurity, cloud technologies, big data, and data analytics, Kirk is a strategic advocate for customers, leveraging value-based selling and consultative approaches to close complex sales. Throughout his career, he has built and led high-performing presales teams, created innovative sales tools, and consistently delivered strong results. Fluent in Japanese, he has conducted numerous presentations across Asia and led multiple executive panels for leadership networks. His notable achievements include co-creating the Solution Architect team at Splunk, earning multiple awards such as SE Manager of the Year (Americas), and receiving the Innovation Award for developing new demo platforms. He holds a BA in International Studies from the University of California, San Diego, and has pursued post-graduate work at Cal-State Hayward.

This week Kevin and Laura sit down with Damon Reissman, President of Celerity Discovery, to explore the complexities of multilingual litigation and how Celerity’s innovative Multilingual Litigation Support (MLLS) offering is reshaping the legal tech landscape. Damon brings over 20 years of experience in eDiscovery and litigation support, having led major engagements at Deloitte and PwC before spearheading Celerity’s data intelligence solutions across 30+ countries.

Damon shares insights into the development of Celerity’s MLLS platform, designed to address the unique challenges legal teams face in cross-border litigation—ranging from managing large volumes of multilingual data to ensuring defensibility and cost control. He discusses how traditional translation services often fall short in the legal context and how Celerity’s MLLS stands apart by leveraging AI and machine learning to accelerate document review, maintain accuracy, and reduce costs. With globalization increasing the demand for efficient multilingual litigation solutions, Damon offers his predictions on the future of MLLS and how technology will continue to evolve to meet the needs of law firms, corporations, and government agencies. He also shares his favorite type of client to work with and the services he enjoys showcasing most. Tune in to hear how Celerity is changing the game in legal tech and why Damon believes the future of litigation support is multilingual, intelligent, and cost-effective.

Damon Reissman is the President of Celerity Discovery, a leading data intelligence company specializing in eDiscovery and litigation support for over 20 years. With more than two decades of experience at Deloitte and PwC, Damon has advised clients on complex litigation, regulatory investigations, and data management strategies. He is an expert in electronic discovery, digital forensics, and legal operations, having led hundreds of cases across the Electronic Discovery Reference Model (EDRM) in 30+ countries.

Damon has worked extensively across industries such as Energy, Technology, Life Sciences, Financial Services, and Government. He is recognized for his ability to lead global teams, develop in-house eDiscovery solutions, and provide strategic guidance on litigation response, regulatory compliance, and data management best practices.

404 Connection Not Found? Today Laura and Kevin sit down with Kavita Ajwani, one of the world’s top dating psychology coaches for men and the founder of Dashing Date to discuss who Men in tech can win at dating. With over 13 years of experience, Kavita has helped thousands of men in tech navigate modern dating with confidence and authenticity.

Kavita shares her journey from running a tech startup to building North America’s largest speed dating company. She opens up about the unique challenges men in tech face when it comes to dating, why confidence is often the missing link, and how digital distractions are reshaping modern relationships. We breakdown the growing crisis of loneliness and emotional isolation, the rise of online dating scams, and the increasing role of AI and deepfake technology in the dating world. Plus, Kavita offers a special gift for our single male listeners—free access to her Coding for Connections masterclass.

Whether you're a tech professional struggling to make real connections or simply curious about how technology intersects with modern romance, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and expert advice. Tune in now to learn how to debug your dating life and build meaningful relationships!

📩 DM Kavita @dashingdates on Instagram with the word “connections” to access her masterclass.

Kavita Ajwani is one of the world’s top dating psychology coaches for men and the founder of Dashing Date. With over 13 years of experience, she helps men navigate modern dating with confidence and success. She’s the resident dating expert on Breakfast Television and has been featured in The New York Times, Cosmopolitan, and Global News.

Today Kevin and Laura sit down with Eric Müller, VP of Engineering and CISO at Presence, to explore the complex intersection of product development and security. We discuss today’s digital landscape where companies are constantly walking a tightrope between innovation and cybersecurity. 

With over two decades of experience across industries like banking, social media, and online gaming, Eric shares his insights on emerging cybersecurity threats, the rising costs of ransomware attacks, and the evolving regulatory landscape—including the UK’s controversial push for encrypted data access. We discuss how organizations can safeguard electoral integrity amid growing concerns of foreign interference. But it’s not all doom and gloom—Eric also sheds light on the transformative role of AI and other emerging technologies in shaping the future of data security and privacy. Tune in for an engaging discussion on leading resilient tech teams, fostering innovation without compromising security, and preparing for the cybersecurity challenges of tomorrow. Don’t miss this episode!

Eric Müller is the VP of Engineering and CISO at Presence, where he has led engineering teams and supported automated processes to deliver high-quality digital products for the past decade. With over 20 years of experience in engineering and security, Eric has worked across various industries including banking, social media, B2B, retail, fashion, and online gaming. His extensive background includes significant roles at Wells Fargo Bank, Charles Schwab, Razorfish, and Mekanism, where he delivered award-winning projects for clients such as Samsung, eBay, and DKNY. At Presence, Eric fosters empathetic leadership and transparent communication to build resilient, high-performing tech teams.

In this episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Allen Cooper, the Co-Founder and CEO of ReadyList, Inc., to explore how his company is transforming hospital operations through cutting-edge software solutions. Allen shares the inspiration behind ReadyList, a mobile-friendly platform designed to optimize the workflows of hospital ancillary and support service teams, ensuring cleaner, safer environments for patients and staff.

We discuss how this helps hospitals mitigate labor shortages by streamlining processes for environmental services teams, ultimately improving patient outcomes. As cybersecurity threats in healthcare continue to rise, Allen explains how ReadyList prioritizes data privacy and security to safeguard hospital systems against cyberattacks. Allen shares insights on how companies can advocate for policies that support both compliance and innovation. We also discuss the challenges hospital administrators face in adopting new technologies and strategies for overcoming resistance to change. Lastly, Allen shares his favorite food from Milwaukee! 

Allen Cooper is the Co-Founder and CEO of ReadyList, Inc., a mobile-friendly software that transforms how hospital ancillary and support service teams operate. Allen co-founded ReadyList with a deep passion for helping the behind-the-scenes workers who keep hospitals running smoothly. ReadyList’s software modules guide them through best-practice cleaning and room prep protocols, resulting in cleaner, safer facilities for both patients and staff. Allen believes the right kind of software can save hospital systems money, time, and even lives. 

In this week's episode, Laura and Kevin sit down with Ricoh Danielson, a U.S. Army combat veteran turned digital forensics expert and entrepreneur. Ricoh shares his journey from serving in Iraq and Afghanistan to founding Fortitude Tech LLC and 1st Responder, organizations dedicated to cybersecurity and digital forensics. His military experiences instilled in him a mission-driven approach, shaping his ability to respond to cyber threats with precision and discipline. Ricoh discusses the current cybersecurity landscape, highlighting the rise of cyber threats from groups in Romania, Estonia, Ukraine, and Russia. While global adversaries like North Korea and China remain a concern, he emphasizes the evolving dangers posed by independent cybercriminals and organized crime, including Mexican cartels running multi-million dollar scam call centers. He stresses that while governments have defenses in place, individuals and businesses must take ownership of their cybersecurity.

A prolific author, Ricoh has written nine books, including Battlefield Parenthood and The Rise of the Vetrepreneur, which explore the resilience of veterans in business and life. Unlike traditional technical field journals, his cybersecurity books take a coffee-table book approach, making the topic more accessible. Ricoh provides practical advice for businesses on building strong cyber defenses and navigating digital threats. He also touches on the impact of shifting political landscapes on cybersecurity and why he encourages professionals to acquire skills that allow them to operate beyond government influence. Ricoh teases future projects, including a potential movie with Laura as his star, and calls on listeners to support veteran entrepreneurship, cybersecurity awareness, and his mission of empowering businesses and individuals against digital threats. This is a must listen!

Ricoh Danielson is a U.S. Army combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan and a leading figure in digital forensics and cybersecurity. Founder of Fortitude Tech LLC, Ricoh turned his passion for incident response and digital forensics into a nationally recognized powerhouse while attending law school. His expertise spans high-profile cell phone forensic investigations, big data analytics, and cybersecurity innovation. He also leads 1st Responder, supporting businesses of all sizes in navigating and mitigating cyber incidents.

A graduate of Thomas Jefferson School of Law, Colorado Tech University, and UCLA Anderson School of Management, Ricoh combines military-honed leadership with technical acumen. He is the author of Battlefield Parenthood and The Rise of the Vetrepreneur, which spotlight the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of veterans.

This week Laura and Kevin sit down with Suriel Arellano, author, speaker, inventor, and executive mentor, to explore the intersection of leadership, AI, and organizational transformation. Suriel shares his journey from Mexico City to Los Angeles and his passion for empowering humanity through AI. We discuss how Plato’s allegory of the cave perfectly illustrates the way organizations must embrace technological change. Suriel debunks myths about AI resistance, discusses the real fears behind automation, and explore how leaders—technical or not—can drive AI innovation. Suriel explains why AI isn’t just a technical tool but a leadership concept, offering insights from his work at IBM, HP, and beyond.

We also touch on the environmental impact of AI, the need for sustainable innovation, and how AI can be leveraged to address real-world crises—including wildfires and floods. Plus, Laura shares some wild stories from Mexico City, from eating steak tartare with grasshoppers to a questionable yogurt experience at the airport—all leading back to a discussion on misconceptions about AI adoption. And of course, the big question: Is ChatGPT making us dumber? 

Suriel Arellano is an author, speaker, inventor, and executive mentor with over two decades of experience inspiring audiences with his deep insights into digital
transformation and the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence in empowering
humanity. As an executive coach and organizational development consultant, Suriel combines his in-depth knowledge of leadership principles with AI expertise to help organizations navigate the complexities of digital transformation and achieve business success. 

Suriel’s journey has been shaped by his leadership roles at companies like IBM and HP, where he developed strong industry relationships and honed his expertise in leadership, organizational change, and culture transformation. 

Suriel holds a Bachelor of Science in Leadership and Management from New York University, advanced certifications from MIT in Artificial Intelligence Leadership, and Har Business School in Business Management. As a DISC Independent Consultant and Organizational Development Coach, Suriel applies his expertise in behavioral analysis to guide organizations through cultural challenges and leadership development, ensuring that teams are cohesive and aligned with the company’s goals.

Today Laura and Kevin are joined by Matthew Rasmussen, founder of ModeOne, a trailblazer in the legal tech and eDiscovery space, to explore how his innovative solutions are reshaping digital forensics. Matt shares his insights on the challenges and opportunities in mobile data collection and forensic investigations. We talk about the genesis of ModeOne and how its remote smartphone collection solution disrupts traditional forensic practices, offering a scalable, targeted, and cost-effective approach. Matt explains how innovations like these are leveling the playing field in a sector traditionally dominated by giants like Cellebrite. We discuss the balance between privacy rights and forensic needs in the age of remote work and encrypted communications and the future of forensic investigations with emerging technologies like IoT devices, wearables, autonomous vehicles, and drones. We also cover the challenges of detecting manipulated digital evidence and how forensic tools are evolving to address these issues and the pivotal role of platforms like Signal and WhatsApp in secure communications, contrasted with the vulnerabilities of less secure options. Matt also offers his perspective on high-profile cases like the Blake Lively/Justin Baldoni case and the Alex Jones trial, shedding light on how digital evidence plays a crucial role in litigation today. Finally, Matt shares advice for aspiring innovators in the legal tech space, predictions for the next decade in eDiscovery, and why he believes the best is yet to come for the industry.

Matthew is a seasoned leader with over two decades of eDiscovery experience transforming how Fortune 500 companies, AmLaw 200 law firms, and litigation service providers approach complex, high-stakes legal matters. He has held key roles at prestigious organizations like O’Melveny & Myers and Bingham McCutchen, building a reputation for innovation in eDiscovery lifecycle management and legal technology.

As the founder of ModeOne, Matthew pioneered the first remote smartphone collection solution designed for targeted, cost-effective data extraction, revolutionizing modern evidence management. Known for his collaborative approach and passion for solving industry challenges, he thrives on delivering new technology to the market that redefine what’s possible in the legal tech space.

Today Laura and Kevin dive into a fascinating discussion on the world of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) with Nick Foy, the Founder and CEO of Silverdale Technology who shares his unique perspective on making ERP solutions accessible for businesses of all sizes.

First though Laura and Kevin kick things off with a lighthearted chat about Laura's new Walk Car. Then, Nick explains why ERP systems, often overlooked until they’re slow or malfunctioning, are critical for businesses. He emphasizes their power in providing quick access to financial and operational insights, enabling better decision-making. For small-to-medium-sized businesses, he advocates for leveraging out-of-the-box ERP solutions and partnering with experienced implementation experts to avoid common pitfalls like over-customization and poor setup. The conversation shifts to leadership, where Nick reflects on how his time at Amazon shaped his philosophy. He shares his approach to creating scalable, tenant-based processes inspired by the tech giant. On a lighter note, Nick, a whisky enthusiast, draws parallels between crafting fine whisky and great ERP solutions, both requiring a long-term vision. He reveals his favorite whisky—Glenmorangie—and touches on his roots in Scotland and journey to the U.S., where he’s continued to innovate and inspire in the tech and business space. Give this a listen! You will leave with actionable insights into ERP implementation, process optimization, and leadership, as well as a deeper understanding of Nick’s passion for democratizing technology.

Nick Foy is the Founder, CEO, and Chief Evangelist of Silverdale Technology, which provides access to world-class processes, systems, and change management methods regardless of their size or budget. Going against the grain of the ERP industry, Nick and his team are 'democratizing ERP' with their unique perspectives, such as their standard business process library, fixed price implementation and money-back guarantees.

Nick is well placed to do so, with over 30-years of experience in business and technology consulting and leadership positions, particularly in logistics and supply chain, at Amazon, Capgemini Consulting, ModusLink Corporation, 3663 First for Foodservice, and The Glenmorangie Distillery Company. Born in Scotland and currently living in rural Washington, USA, Nick is a frequent traveler, having made it all around the US, Europe, and Asia for work. Still, he also spares time for his interests, such as being an aspiring guitar player, whisky sampling as a hobby, and being an early adopter and owner of a large tech graveyard of discarded first editions.

Today Kevin and Laura chat with John Martin, CEO of RedFile Technologies, and Chris LaCour, founder of Ingenious Dataworks about the fascinating intersection of eDiscovery, AI, and cybersecurity. Starting with their unique backgrounds, we explore eDiscovery’s obsession with AI and uncover where the industry may have gone astray.

John argues that the problem lies in the “A” of AI—highlighting the limitations of artificial intelligence and its inability to fully understand context. He explains RedFile’s game-changing 3DI approach, developed over 17 years, which combines graphical, content, and attribute analysis with emotional tone detection to provide a more nuanced and accurate picture. Chris critiques the industry's reliance on buzzwords and inefficient human-in-the-loop processes while advocating for practical solutions like 3DI that are cost-effective and CPU-driven. The discussion shifts to cybersecurity, with a thought-provoking analysis of why the industry focuses on tracking people ("the who") rather than protecting data ("the what"). John and Chris reveal how disorganized data can lead to massive vulnerabilities, and argue for better data classification and privacy-first strategies to address these issues. We discuss whether the eDiscovery and cybersecurity industries can level the playing field for smaller companies or if a divide between the "CPU vs. GPU" approaches will leave less-resourced organizations behind. With sharp insights, humorous anecdotes, and practical advice, this episode offers a fresh perspective on innovation, the pitfalls of AI hype, and how businesses can chart a better path forward in a data-driven world.

John Martin, CEO of RedFile Technologies, Inc., and a U.S. Army veteran, brings over three decades of experience in data science and technological innovation to his leadership role. His extensive expertise in developing advanced data processing technologies has been pivotal in the creation and continuous refinement of the innovative 3DI platform. Under his visionary leadership, RedFile is not merely navigating but actively shaping the future of document processing and data analysis. Guided by John's direction, RedFile has revolutionized document and image processing with its state- of-the-art 3-Dimensional Inference (3DI) technology. This breakthrough replaces the traditional, labor- intensive "stare and compare" methods with automated, headless systems that significantly enhance efficiency and accuracy across various industries. A committed advocate for innovation, John also places a strong emphasis on customer success and regulatory compliance. His leadership ensures that RedFile not only leads in technology but also empowers businesses to harness data-driven insights for informed decision-making, fundamentally transforming their operational and strategic landscapes. 

Chris LaCour is a serial entrepreneur with a proven track record of founding and scaling multiple successful businesses across diverse industries. Renowned for a sharp ability to spot market opportunities, drive innovation, and accelerate growth, Chris has consistently built companies that make a lasting impact.

Most recently, Chris launched Ingenious Dataworks, a company dedicated to solving critical data management challenges for businesses. With a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding data in today’s digital landscape, Chris’ latest venture leverages cutting-edge 3DI technology to streamline data operations, improve accessibility, and enable organizations to make more informed, data-driven decisions. Passionate about delivering tangible value through innovative solutions, Chris is committed to helping businesses unlock the full potential of their data, empowering them to remain competitive and agile in an increasingly data-centric world.

In this bonus episode of That Tech Pod, Laura and Kevin dig into the high-stakes controversy surrounding TikTok, the immensely popular short-form video app owned by ByteDance. With over 170 million users in the U.S. and significant cultural and economic influence, TikTok now faces an uncertain future due to national security and data privacy concerns. As the Supreme Court debates whether to uphold a law requiring ByteDance to divest its U.S. operations or face a nationwide ban, this episode unpacks the legal, political, and social implications of the decision. 

We explore the critical arguments both for and against a TikTok ban, from potential risks of data misuse and propaganda to concerns about free speech, economic disruption, and setting a global precedent for censorship. The episode also highlights the app’s impact on small businesses, creators, and the U.S. economy, contributing billions annually and supporting millions of jobs.

For a unique perspective from an actual TikTok user, Kevin's 12-year-old daughter Evelyn joins as a guest, offering insight into why TikTok resonates with Gen Alpha. Evelyn discusses her experiences with the platform, how it shapes her creativity and social connections, and what a potential ban might mean for teens like her. The conversation sheds light on generational differences in attitudes toward technology, privacy, and digital culture. Laura also loops in her niece to get the 14 year old’s perspective. 

As the Supreme Court’s decision looms and Donald Trump prepares to take office, Laura and Kevin discuss the possible outcomes, including a TikTok divestment, acquisition by figures like Elon Musk, or a complete ban. They also explore how these developments could reshape the digital landscape in the U.S., including the rise of alternative platforms like RedNote and the broader implications for tech sovereignty, mental health, and teen culture. Tune in to this bonus episode to understand the stakes of TikTok’s trial and its ripple effects across technology, society, and politics.

Today Laura and Kevin sit down with Mike Bowers an expert in IIoT platforms, and legacy system modernization. Mike shares invaluable insights on how to innovate in manufacturing and bridge the gap between technology and leadership. We explore Mike’s personal and professional journey into software development and architecture and then deep dive into the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), explaining its role in transforming industries such as automotive, water treatment, and smart city development. Mike highlights how smart factories are revolutionizing manufacturing by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impacts—illustrating concepts with real-world examples like Amazon's use of graph databases to optimize delivery logistics. Mike explains the technologies driving Industry 4.0, including the MQTT protocol, the importance of mastering JSON, and the critical role of AI and machine learning in enhancing IIoT capabilities. Mike also addresses practical advice for aspiring professionals: prioritize hands-on experience by working directly in modern factory environments to bridge theoretical knowledge with real-world applications. Mike also tackles key issues such as cybersecurity risks of legacy connected devices and the skills gap in the workforce. Along the way, he touches on futuristic topics like Elon Musk's AI innovations and the impact of robotics on improving worker conditions—, even addressing whether Amazon workers might finally avoid "bottle-breaks." Whether you’re a technologist or simply curious about how factories are evolving beyond the 1980s, this episode offers a fascinating look at the technologies shaping modern industry and the professionals driving these changes.

Mike Bowers is the Chief Architect at FairCom Corporation. Mike brings decades of experience in software development and architecture, and specializes in high-performance NoSQL/SQL databases, IIoT platforms, and legacy system modernization solutions. His insights will help CEOs, IT Managers, software architects/engineers, and control engineers to reduce cost in manufacturing, deliver agility by adopting Industry 4.0, and bridge between technologists and executives, to mention a few.

Some people call him the Space Lawyer, some call him an entrepreneur... in today’s episode, Kevin and Laura dive into the laws of the cosmos with Christopher Hearsey, an accomplished space executive, lawyer, and entrepreneur with nearly two decades of leadership in the space industry. With expertise spanning space law, mission management, and strategy, Chris provides unique insights into the challenges and opportunities in the growing space economy. We kick off by answering a fundamental question: what does a space lawyer do? Chris explains the origins of space law, the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, and how these foundational principles apply to today’s technological advancements like reusable rockets and private moon missions. He details key topics such as Moore’s Law in space, the role of space in telecommunications technology, and the regulatory complexities of landing commercial habitats on the moon. Chris explains how space governance works, who gets to send missions to space, own property, and govern activities in space. We also cover space piracy, interplanetary lawsuits, and the cultural significance of space exploration. Chris also shares his thoughts on ethical considerations in space exploration, the challenges of colonizing Mars, and what it will take for commercial moon flights to become a reality. Plus, we get his take on important pop culture questions like Mulder or Scully? and hear about Kevin’s "all-expenses-paid" space travel deal—with a twist. Tune in for a mix of deep space insights, practical advice for aspiring space entrepreneurs, and a little humor as we explore humanity’s legal path to the stars.

Christopher Hearsey is an experienced space executive, space lawyer, and entrepreneur with almost two decades of leadership in the space industry. Since 2018, Chris has been the Founder and CEO of OSA Consulting, a strategic advisory and management consulting firm specializing in supporting early-stage tech and space startups. Through OSA Consulting, he has guided emerging companies in navigating challenges and achieving growth in competitive markets, working to send people and things to space. 

Previously, Chris served as Chief Strategy Officer at Rogue Space Systems, where he drove strategic initiatives and expanded the company’s influence in the space sector leading efforts to launch the company's first satellite Barry-1 in 2023. As CEO of Exolaunch US, he established and managed the North American operations of the German-based launch reservation and mission management provider, overseeing business development, customer relations, and market expansion. His earlier roles include Corporate Counsel and Director of DC Operations & Legislative Affairs at Bigelow Aerospace, where he helped deploy the Bigelow Expandable Activity Module (BEAM) to the International Space Station in 2015.

Chris holds a bachelor's degree in Mathematical Physics and Economics and advanced degrees in law and space studies, including a Juris Doctor in Air and Space Law (Honors). He is also Cofounder, Chairman, and Treasurer of the Space Court Foundation, a multinational nonprofit dedicated to the promotion of space law education and the rule of law offering global internship and research opportunities. Chris lives with his family in Maryland where he ran for office in Maryland’s 6th Congressional District in 2018.