The Digital Executive

Trailblazing AI and DevOps: Revolutionizing Tech with MLOps with CEO Brad Micklea | Ep 867

Send us a textIn this enlightening episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Brad Micklea, Founder and CEO of Jozu and project lead for the KitOps.ml Project. Micklea shares his journey from founding CodeEnvy, a pioneering container-based development environment acquired by Red Hat, to launching his latest venture, Jozu, aimed at advancing the integration of AI and machine learning in production environments.With deep dives into the challenges and innovations of bringing AI models into operational stability and scalability, Micklea elucidates his vision of AI’s transformative potential in tech. The discussion spans the genesis of Jozu and KitOps, exploring how these tools are set to reshape the landscape of tech development and operationalization. Join us for a robust conversation about the future of DevOps, AI operations, and how companies can strategically position themselves in this evolving technological frontier.

Empowering Voices: Transforming Public Speaking and Engaging Audiences with CEO Kimberly Crowe | Ep 866

Send us a textIn this engaging episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas sits down with Kimberly Crowe, an accomplished public speaker, author, and founder of Entrepreneur's Rocket Fuel. Kimberly shares her journey from a corporate career to becoming a renowned speaker and advocate for empowering others to share their stories. She explains the importance of knowing what emotion you want your audience to feel and what action you want them to take after your talk, which are critical to audience engagement.Kimberly also discusses her online platform, Speaker's Playhouse, which connects speakers with opportunities to share their messages. She highlights the evolving nature of public speaking in the digital age, stressing the significance of interactivity and direct audience engagement to stand out in a world where information is readily available at our fingertips. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their public speaking skills and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

Blending Tech and Healthcare: Shaping the Future with Privacy-Preserving AI with CEO Anne Kim | Ep 865

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas hosts Anne Kim, co-founder and CEO of Array Insights. Based on her innovative work at MIT, Anne discusses her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, driven by her desire to implement privacy-enhancing technologies in healthcare. She explores the pivotal role of federated learning and blockchain in clinical trials and patient data security, offering a primer on these technologies for the uninitiated.Anne outlines Array Insights' mission to partner with patient advocacy groups, ensuring patient engagement without compromising privacy. She also projects into the future of AI and machine learning in healthcare, envisioning a world where advanced technologies seamlessly protect patient privacy and personalize treatment. This conversation is a deep dive into the intersection of technology, privacy, and healthcare innovation.

Mastering the Art of Anti-PR: Revolutionizing Public Perception and AI in Communication with Chief Evangelist Karla Jo Helms | Ep 864

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas engages with Karla Jo Helms, the Chief Evangelist and Anti-PR Strategist at JOTO PR Disruptors. Karla Jo shares her journey from crisis management to pioneering the Anti-PR approach, a method leveraging crisis management techniques and media algorithms to safeguard and enhance the reputations of innovative startups against established giants.She discusses the strategic use of AI in public relations, emphasizing its role as an enhancer of human creativity rather than a replacement. Karla Jo explains the importance of understanding media algorithms and the balance needed between AI assistance and maintaining authentic brand messaging. This insightful conversation sheds light on the cutthroat nature of PR and the power of Anti-PR in shaping public opinion and driving company valuation.

Striking the Right Chord: How Music and Creativity Fuel SEO Success with CEO Nick Rubright | Ep 863

Send us a textIn this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas converses with Nick Rubright, the founder and CEO of Ranko Media. Nick shares how his background as a musician and his passion for creativity have profoundly influenced his approach to running a successful content-focused SEO and Digital PR agency. He discusses the importance of balancing SEO techniques with creative content that resonates emotionally with audiences, setting it apart in a competitive digital landscape.Nick also reveals the challenges and triumphs of scaling Ranko Media, from managing rapid growth to enhancing customer communication, and the crucial moments that shaped his journey from musician to digital marketing mogul. Moreover, Nick offers insights into future trends in SEO and digital marketing, particularly the role of AI as an assistant rather than a replacement in content creation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how artistic creativity merges with digital marketing strategies to drive business success.

Uncovering the Synergy of Crypto and Real Estate with CEO Roshan Shah | Ep 862

Send us a textIn this illuminating episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Roshan Shah, co-founder and CEO of Decimal Digital Currency and President of Hamilton Road Capital. Roshan delves into the strategic integration of his vast experience in real estate with innovative cryptocurrency ventures. He discusses Decimal Digital's aggressive expansion amidst the Bitcoin halving and the unique approach of their new SMA offering aimed at making Bitcoin mining accessible to a broader audience.Roshan also shares his insights on the intersections between his roles in digital currency, commercial real estate, and health and wellness, revealing how these diverse sectors complement each other and create unexpected opportunities. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the convergence of traditional business models with cutting-edge technology.

Unlocking Success in AI and Venture Capital: A Deep Dive with CEO Akli Adjaoute | Ep 861

Send us a textIn this insightful episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, host Brian Thomas engages with Akli Adjaoute, the visionary founder of Exponion and the former CEO of Brighterion. Akli shares his remarkable journey from founding Brighterion, a company that has become a cornerstone in enterprise AI applications across various industries, to his venture capital pursuits with Exponion. He recounts the challenges faced and the resilience required to navigate the competitive landscape of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the importance of unique innovation and the power of determination rooted in his experiences as a minority entrepreneur.Brighterion, trusted by top banks and recognized with numerous awards, stands as a testament to Akli's dedication to impactful, applied AI. The conversation takes a deeper turn into the technical feats achieved by Brighterion, highlighting its unmatched transaction processing capabilities that set new industry standards.Transitioning to his role in venture capital, Akli outlines his mission to support startups that are not only technologically innovative but also ethically aligned, rejecting investments in ventures that could potentially harm society. He stresses the value of resilience, the entrepreneurial mindset, and the crucial role of mentorship in navigating the tumultuous journey of startup growth.Furthermore, Akli offers a critical perspective on the future of AI, discussing the ethical implications, potential risks, and the necessity for stringent regulation to mitigate the adverse effects of advancements in artificial intelligence. His insights into AI's impact on society, coupled with a call for ethical considerations in the rapidly evolving landscape, provide a compelling narrative on the responsibilities of technologists and entrepreneurs alike.Brian Thomas wraps up the conversation, reflecting on Akli's profound impact on the tech world and his continued influence as a mentor, investor, and advocate for ethical technology development. This episode not only highlights Akli Adjaoute's achievements and insights but also serves as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and technologists navigating the complex interplay of innovation, ethics, and success in the digital age.

Transforming Travel Photography: Journey from Silicon Valley to Founder with Executive Vaibhav Srivastava | Ep 860

Send us a textIn this enlightening episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, host Brian Thomas welcomes Vaibhav Srivastava, the visionary behind PhotoSpot, a groundbreaking platform designed to revolutionize the way photographers discover unique photo locations. With an illustrious 13-year tenure at tech giants like Meta, Pinterest, and eBay, Srivastava's shift from leading database decisions to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and insightful.PhotoSpot emerges from Srivastava's personal passion for photography and an identified gap in the travel industry, where travelers struggle to find the Instagram-worthy spots they see online on conventional travel planning websites. This platform not only aids in discovering exceptional photo spots but also integrates travel planning and photography into a seamless experience, leveraging AI to cater to the modern traveler's needs.Srivastava also shares his perspective on the evolving role of technology in enhancing the creative process for photographers of all levels, emphasizing the importance of discovery and composition in capturing the perfect shot. As PhotoSpot prepares to introduce new features and expansions, including an AI-based trip planner and partnerships with local tour guides, Srivastava's journey from a tech leader to a pioneering entrepreneur is a compelling narrative of innovation, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of filling an unmet demand in the market.

Strategic Marketing Voyage with Growth and Opportunities with Executive Aggie Tuxhorn | Ep 859

Send us a textIn this inspiring episode of The Digital Executive, Aggie Tuxhorn, a seasoned marketing professional and the Senior Vice President, Chief Growth Officer at Citizens Bank of Edmond, shares her journey and insights into the banking sector's evolving landscape. With over a decade of experience, Aggie's transition to Citizens Bank was sparked by an unexpected encounter and subsequent mentorship with Jill Castilla, the bank's CEO, during an awards ceremony in New York. This pivotal moment led her to seize a unique opportunity to amplify her impact within the industry, moving from a larger organization to a community-focused bank where innovation and customer engagement are paramount.Aggie discusses the critical strategies for expanding market presence, emphasizing the importance of understanding the target audience, differentiating from competitors, and adopting an integrated marketing approach. She highlights the necessity of patience and consistency in marketing efforts, debunking the myth of instant success in new markets.Leveraging technology, particularly social media, has been instrumental in enhancing Citizens Bank of Edmond's growth and visibility. Aggie underscores the role of social media in shaping the bank's narrative and expanding its reach, praising Jill Castilla's pioneering use of the platform to connect with customers transparently and authentically.Looking ahead, Aggie is particularly excited about the launch of ROGER, a digital banking platform dedicated to serving the military community. This initiative reflects Citizens Bank's commitment to 'do good, do well,' aligning with Aggie's personal and professional ethos. Through strategic marketing and community-focused projects, Aggie Tuxhorn is poised to drive significant growth and innovation at Citizens Bank of Edmond, contributing to the broader goal of serving and supporting underserved communities.Join us as Aggie Tuxhorn delves into the nuances of strategic marketing in the banking sector, her collaborative efforts with a visionary leadership team, and her dedication to impactful projects like ROGER, all aimed at fostering community engagement and financial empowerment.

Bridging Gaps in M&A: A Strategic Vision from Wall Street to Entrepreneurship with Founder Arthur Petropoulos | Ep 858

Send us a textIn an illuminating episode of The Digital Executive, Arthur Petropoulos, Founder and Managing Partner of Hill View Partners, shares his insightful journey from a distinguished Wall Street career to establishing a boutique firm that caters to the unique needs of privately held companies. With over a billion in transaction value to his name, Arthur identified a critical gap in the market for family, entrepreneur, and small investment group owned companies seeking mergers and acquisitions and capital advisory services. He founded Hill View Partners in 2016 to offer a more efficient, targeted approach to these services, moving away from the inefficient "pray and spray" method prevalent in the industry.Arthur discusses how emerging technology has revolutionized the way Hill View Partners operates, enhancing the firm's ability to diagnose company inefficiencies, optimize operations, and scale businesses more organically. Leveraging technology for global collaboration and automating services has allowed for unparalleled growth and efficiency in serving their clients' needs.The podcast delves deep into the strategies that have made Hill View Partners successful in navigating the complexities of over 100 transactions. Arthur emphasizes the importance of a meticulous, process-oriented approach, combining the best of traditional business practices with cutting-edge technology to optimize outcomes for their clients.Arthur's transition from Wall Street to entrepreneurship has taught him valuable lessons about the necessity of embracing discomfort and uncertainty. He highlights the importance of persistence, faith, and the willingness to endure long journeys toward success, sharing personal reflections on the entrepreneurial experience and the fulfillment it brings.This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and finance professionals alike, offering profound insights into the world of mergers and acquisitions, the transformative impact of technology in finance, and the resilience required to chart one's own path in the business world.