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.

Today Laura and Kevin chat with Matt Strippelhoff, the leader behind Red Hawk, to explore the evolving world of software development and the role innovation plays in shaping the industry. Matt shares his excitement about current trends in software development and explains how these advancements are influencing Red Hawk’s approach to building applications. Matt explains how Red Hawk leverages AI tools like code copilots to streamline the development process, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining a "human in the loop" approach. He also addresses the concerns surrounding AI replacing jobs, asserting that AI should enhance, not diminish, the role of development teams. However, he stresses that companies should only invest in AI if they can clearly articulate its value to their business. The discussion takes a lively turn as the group delves into the topic of AI chatbot companions. Laura sparks a spirited debate by asking whether chatting with an AI bot could be considered cheating. Kevin and Matt argue that it is, while Laura counters with a humorous take, adding that falling in love with an AI companion might make someone a “loser.” The conversation also touches on the challenges of using AI in recruitment, with Laura recounting a bizarre hiring experience involving a candidate who turned out to be a group of people. Matt offers valuable advice for non-technical founders looking to build software companies, outlining common mistakes they make and providing practical tips to avoid them. He also looks ahead to Red Hawk’s future, discussing the company’s innovative model of bundling software development and engineering into managed services. Matt also shares stories from his 15 years with his rock band, Grace in Gravity, including the time they opened for Sarah McLachlan. Laura playfully suggests starting a new band called “The Tripods,” but Matt remains focused on his commitment to Red Hawk, which he describes as his all-in plan with no backup. There is also a discussion on the pros and cons of remote work versus in-office teams, sparking a debate on building a workforce for the future. With a mix of expert insights, practical advice, and entertaining anecdotes, this episode offers something for everyone—from tech enthusiasts and business leaders to those curious about the intersection of AI and human creativity.

During his career, Matt Strippelhoff has curated an extensive portfolio in traditional and interactive media. Leading the development of web applications, mobile applications, e-commerce websites and specialized interactive marketing programs, he shapes Red Hawk’s technological landscape.
In 2022, The Circuit awarded Matt the Visionary Leader Award for his groundbreaking approach to software development. Recognized for reimagining the process, Matt's bold leadership catalyzes growth and success. His visionary business model bundles software development and technical support services for a fixed monthly fee, offering financial predictability and operational stability for their mid-market clientele.

At Red Hawk, Matt’s vision, disrupting traditional models, has led to explosive growth, multi-year recurring revenue contracts and greater than 95% customer retention. Matt earned a BFA in communication design from the Art Academy of Cincinnati in 1993.

The majority of Red Hawk's work today falls into three categories: workflow automation, sales enablement and systems integration. Red Hawk also serves as the outsourced innovation team for several clients, collaborating closely with client IT and marketing teams. From feasibility studies to fully featured applications, Red Hawk focuses on delivering measurable value with every initiative.

Today we fulfill Laura's Christmas wish and transform the pod into That Murder Pod™ as Laura and Kevin dive into the fascinating intersection of true crime and technology with guest and good sport, Paul Ruppert. Together, they explore how advancements in tech might have helped solve or even prevent some infamous murder cases. Laura walks Kevin and Paul through three chilling real-life cases: the tragic Brenda Spencer school shooting that inspired The Boomtown Rats' hit song "I Don't Like Mondays", the horrifying family murders involving Jasmine Richardson and her boyfriend, and the mysterious disappearance and murder of Girly Chew Hossencofft. As we examine each case, we discuss the roles that tech, from early internet monitoring to forensic advancements and surveillance, could play in uncovering clues and preventing such crimes. Whether you're a true crime enthusiast or a tech aficionado, this episode is sure to get you thinking about the powerful role technology can play in solving crimes.

Paul Ruppert, the CEO of Global Point View is a veteran CPaaS and mobile services executive, strategy consultant and holder of 2 tech patents enabling global text messaging, with career experience in both the private and public sectors applying a range of multidisciplinary skills exercised at the highest levels of both arenas–from corporate boardrooms to the White House. He has generated over $400M in direct sales, is a skilled cross border negotiator, technology innovator and strategic partnership driver with two decades leading global commercial, product, marketing teams and M&A deals in B2B SaaS sales.

Prior to entering the private sector, with a Harvard masters graduate degree Paul
served over a decade in policy and political roles as an legislative assistant to a US
Senator, economic development advisor to a cabinet Secretary, a technology
industry lobbyist and White House staffer. His private sector achievements are exceptional including scaling startups from $0 to $Billion valuations, forging global strategic partnerships, doing business in 80 countries, working with private equity and $B enterprises managing $130M business P&Ls, and managing cross border, cross cultural teams of teams having lived in the US, France and China.

Paul leads Global Point View Ltd, a strategy consulting firm providing insights to technology companies seeking guidance on focus, strategies and plans via scaling, partnerships and acquisitions. His international clients have included Facebook, MasterCard, Western Union, Liveperson, Infobip, private equity and venture firms looking to leverage mobile services in their digital plans for conversational commerce.

This episode contains discussions about murder, suicide, and violent crimes that may be distressing to some listeners. Please listen with care and prioritize your well-being.

Today Kevin and Laura dive into the world of eDiscovery with Bryant Gauthier and Chris Purdy from Celerity Discovery, a division of Celerity that helps government agencies, law firms, and corporations navigate complex litigation. Bryant and Chris discuss what sets Celerity apart, from their expertise in investigations and expert witness services to their new Multi-Language Litigation Service. They share how AI is reshaping billing models and streamlining the discovery process, discuss career highlights, and offer advice for those entering litigation consulting. Plus, hear how Chris’s journey took him from owning a bar to becoming a trusted courtroom expert. Bryant and Chris bring years of experience crafting solutions across the EDRM. Bryant also discusses their upcoming webinar, How to Leverage Your Internal eDiscovery Program to Optimize Results. Listen for insights into the future of eDiscovery and the innovative work happening at Celerity.

For more details about the webinar How to Leverage Your Internal eDiscovery Program to Optimize Results scheduled for Wednesday, December 18th at 1PM ET, go to this link: I’m in – Reserve my Free Webinar Seat Now >.

The session will be hosted by Bryant Gauthier, with guest speakers, eDiscovery industry veterans Fabio Celeita and Nkosi Sharpe, and will cover the following topics:

• Goal Setting

• Simple Pricing and Billing

• 80 / 90 Rule

• Defined Processes

• AI - Items of the Moment

• Staying at the Head of the Class

• Trade-offs

• Program Adoption

Bryant Gauthier, the Vice President of Celerity Discovery, is a trusted advisor to law firms and in-house counsel. His expertise lies in identifying cost-saving measures for data identification, eDiscovery, data analysis, data mapping, information governance, privacy, and legal operations. He has a wealth of experience in serving clients in complex litigations and investigations, including regulatory investigations with agencies such as the SEC, DOJ, and CFPB and with congressional inquiries. Prior to his role at Celerity, Bryant held key positions at Huron Consulting, Skadden Arps, Buckley Sandler, Finnegan Henderson, and Xerox. Bryant has led matters spanning the EDRM, handling cases in North America, Asia, and Europe. He focuses on innovative solutions that reduce fees, time spent, and risk fees throughout the discovery process. He has supported Law Firm and In-House Legal teams in litigation, internal investigation, and government inquiries involving a variety of industries.

Chris Purdy, the Vice President of Litigation Services, has nearly three decades of experience in the litigation consulting arena, and leads Celerity’s Data and Damages Analysis practice. He has managed all aspects of the firm’s most complex and high-profile data analysis engagements, including data collection, database development, authoring of Expert and 1006 Summary Witness Reports, and submission of written and live testimony. In the data collection and database development phases, Chris develops and implements strategies to ensure gapless data collections, identifies critical relations between multiple tables and databases, and validates and ensures the integrity of all relevant data fields. In support of case strategy and in development of Expert Reports, Chris works with his clients to identify key case issues and the data sets that speak to those issues, and develops compelling and robust analyses and exhibits based upon that data.

In addition to his work related to Data and Damages Analysis, Chris has decades of experience in developing discovery strategies and in managing collections, data processing, review, and productions. Prior to joining Celerity, Chris was a co-founder of Certus Consulting Group, a litigation consulting firm, and a Project Manager at ZIA Information Analysis Group.

Celerity Discovery provides advanced eDiscovery, data analysis, expert witness and incident response services to clients seeking to optimize complex matter results. Blending extensive experience managing matters across all phases of the EDRM, Celerity Discovery services help clients convert raw data into clean intelligence to optimize cases and mitigate risk. With deep roots in complex data analysis, Celerity Discovery legal services practitioners are proven experts in providing clients with advanced solutions from forensics to final production, expert testimony and beyond.

Today Laura and Kevin sit down with Kevin Korte, an accomplished IT Innovation and Growth Strategist, entrepreneur, and startup investor, to explore how organizations can transform IT from a hindrance into a strategic asset. Kevin shares his expertise in leading-edge cybersecurity practices, emphasizing the critical importance of balancing robust security with user convenience through technologies like Single Sign-On, Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), and open-source identity management systems. Kevin discusses the power of standardized digital identity management for organizations of all sizes, from small teams to global enterprises with millions of users. We also talk about also emerging trends in cybersecurity and digital identities, providing actionable advice for businesses to stay ahead of evolving threats. Kevin also opens up about his journey from Germany to Seattle and adapting to new cultures. This conversation offers a wealth of insights on cybersecurity, leadership, and innovation. 

Kevin Dominik Korte dedicates himself to inspiring people to take control of their time, data, & dreams in IT, Business, & Life. He is an accomplished, entrepreneurial Non-Executive Director and IT Innovation & Growth Strategist. His focus is to help companies adopt leading-edge cybersecurity practices and turn IT from a hindrance into an asset for every organization. A German native, Kevin moved to Seattle in 2013 to take over the role of President of Univention North America. He is responsible for the US team and helps clients use open-source identity management systems. As a startup investor, Kevin focuses on Tech and FinTech. His exceptional stakeholder management skills nurture strong relationships with high-profile industry players and key partners. Outside of work, Kevin serves as Treasurer to the Jacobs University Bremen Foundation of America, which is part of the endowment of his Alma Mater.

Univention provides standardized identity management systems for organizations from 5 people to 5 million. Kevin's team provides Sales, Support, and Professional Services.

Today, Laura and Kevin talk with Mike Paciello, a trailblazer in the field of digital accessibility and usability. As the Chief Accessibility Officer at AudioEye, Mike shares his journey, from his early motivation to focus on accessibility to authoring the first book on web accessibility, Web Accessibility for People with Disabilities. We discuss Mike's role in the creation of the Web Accessibility Initiative, challenges companies face in prioritizing accessibility, and how AI is shaping the future of inclusive technology. Mike also sheds light on gaps in the accessibility market, and ethical considerations for emerging technologies. Finally, he dispels misconceptions about accessibility and offers his vision for a more inclusive digital world. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, accessibility advocate, or curious about the intersection of technology and inclusivity, this episode is a must-listen.

Mike Paciello is the Chief Accessibility Officer at AudioEye, Inc., a digital accessibility company. Prior to joining AudioEye, Mike founded WebABLE, which delivers news about the disability and accessibility technology market. Mike authored the first book on web accessibility and usability, “Web Accessibility for People with Disabilities” and, in 1997, Mr. Paciello received recognition from President Bill Clinton for his work in the creation of World Wide Web Consortium’s Web Accessibility Initiative. He has served as an advisor to the US Access Board and other federal agencies since 1992. Mike has served as an international leader, technologist, and authority in emerging technology, accessibility, usability, and electronic publishing. Mike is the former Founder of The Paciello Group, a world-renowned software accessibility consultancy acquired in 2017 by Vispero.

Today Kevin and Laura chat with Derek Ferguson on the future of software engineering in the age of AI. We discuss how Derek is leveraging AI to enhance coding without reducing developer opportunities. Derek speaks on the role of software engineers evolving and which skills will become obsolete. Derek gives advice for aspiring software engineers. We also talk about AI-generated code quality and the right amount of oversight human developers need to have when dealing with AI-assisted coding. We hear about low code and no-code and AI platforms becoming more prevalent and the impact on the job market. Derek gives his thoughts on AI displacing certain roles within software engineering and how developers prepare for these changes in 2024 and beyond. Lastly Derek tells a funny story from a major tech event speech he gave and what he enjoys most about teaching others. 

Derek Ferguson is the Chief Software Officer at Fitch, where he leads the development of software used by investors to identify opportunities and quantify risk. Fitch’s products have won 27 awards — and counting — in the last two years alone. Outside of software creation, Derek is the author of the bestselling Broadband Internet Access for Dummies, an expert in masterclasses hosted by GOTO Chicago, and a speaker at prestigious events — from JavaOne to TechEd and beyond.

Today Laura and Kevin speak with Mr. Backup himself, W. Curtis Preston. We talk about the biggest opportunities for innovation in legal tech. We hear Curtis' thoughts on AI redefining roles within legal teams. We discuss the biggest technical and logistical obstacles to satisfying an eDiscovery request when it comes to handling backup data. Curtis walks us through why backups present unique challenges in eDiscovery compared to other types of data sources. We also hear Laura and Curtis' thoughts on the PT Cruiser and so much more!

W. Curtis Preston is a Legal Tech Evangelist specializing in eDiscovery and Forensic Acquisition. Curtis possesses a unique combination of legal and technical expertise and has been an expert witness on multiple lawsuits, consulting and being deposed on multi-million-dollar matters that included intellectual property, patents, and insurance. He has even been a pro se litigant in three cases – and prevailed in each case. He has brought his expertise to S2|Data, a legacy data and discovery solution aiding Fortune 500 legal teams, AMLAW 100 Law Firms & Sole Practitioners in computer forensics and eDiscovery.

Today Laura and Kevin chat with Tom Hurd the CEO & Co-Founder of Zeki Data. Tom first details his time overseeing intelligence and law enforcement operations serving as the senior Homeland Security Advisor to four British Home Secretaries. We learn about the importance of practicing your cybersecurity procedures. Tom talks about what really goes on in a cyber crime lab and dispels some of the myths around James Bond and MI6. We hear about his team's efforts to locate the COVID virus (and Laura's possible direct involvement 😬) and tracking the virus in the same way you can track cocaine. Tom gets into building big data projects around human excellence and finding people who "break the pattern." We learn about "Moneyball for Scientists and Engineers," and how Zeki Data uses AI to find the best talent. Finally Laura does a health check on Tom. This is a really interesting and entertaining episode!

Tom Hurd, the CEO and Co-Founder of Zeki Data, served as the senior Homeland Security Advisor to four British Home Secretaries, leading efforts against state Tom Hurd Horizontal threats, cybercrime, and terrorism, and overseeing intelligence and law enforcement operations. He played a key role in producing the Prime Minister’s Daily Intelligence Brief and was part of the UK’s Joint Intelligence Committee. Tom advocated for using science and technology to enhance operations, leading to his establishment of the UK’s Joint Biosecurity Centre to improve the accuracy of COVID-19 outbreak detection. He was honoured with an OBE in 2011 and a CB in 2020 for his contributions to national security. Tom has transitioned from government intelligence to co-founding a talent intelligence start-up.

At Zeki Data, they specialize in pinpointing the most advanced and innovative minds in science and engineering—individuals who are not just pushing the boundaries but are redefining them. These top deep tech innovators are driven to create groundbreaking solutions, refusing to settle for the status quo. Their sophisticated time series data empowers us to develop a comprehensive view of an individual’s record of innovation and accomplishments, allowing Zeki to accurately forecast their future potential. To identify this elite talent, Zeki meticulously crafted a dataset encompassing 10 million individuals employed at over 40,000 companies across 94 countries, spanning over a decade.

Today Laura and Kevin speak with Cybersecurity Expert Craig Petronella and founder of the Petronella Technology Group. They speak about cybersecurity and disaster recovery after events such as Milton and Helene and how you should test your cyber practice with table-top exercises. Craig shares some scary ransomware stories. He also gives tips on how to get into cybersecurity in 2024. We get into some of the overlooked compliance risks and new regulations. Craig is a true expert!

Craig and the Petronella Technology Group have helped 5,000+ businesses stay safe from network attacks and fully comply with their industries' regulations, including CMMC and NIST for defense industrial base contractors, HIPAA and HITECH for medical practices, GLBA for banking and finance, FTC compliance, Sarbanes Oxley and more. Craig is also the author of 8 cybersecurity and compliance books, including the Amazon #1 bestseller How HIPAA Can Crush Your Medical Practice.

With 30+ years of experience, Craig is well-known and highly regarded in the U.S. cybersecurity industry. He has served as a compliance consultant and conducted onsite risk assessments for over 500 medical practices, hospitals, and business associates, across the country, protecting them from hackers halfway around the world in places like Ukraine, Russia, and China. Craig holds MIT certifications in AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, and compliance.