#shifthappens in the Digital Workplace Podcast

What separates a good CFO from a transformational one? Jeff Epstein, Operating Partner at Bessemer Venture Partners and former Oracle CFO, breaks it down. In this episode, he shares battle-tested strategies on balancing growth and profitability, turning finance into a lever for innovation, and building governance systems that scale. This two-part episode is a must-listen for business leaders managing high-stakes decisions in large-...

Cybercrime is advancing fast, with AI playing a significant role in both attacks and defense. In this episode of #shifthappens, we sit down with cybersecurity expert and Have I Been Pwned Founder Troy Hunt to uncover the real threats of data breaches, why some companies suppress or delay breach disclosures, and how AI is reshaping cybersecurity — both for good and bad. From social engineering scams to the future of AI-powered secur...

AI is transforming data security, but not by changing the rules; it’s amplifying both risks and rewards. In this episode of the #shifthappens podcast, Bob Buda, Founder of Buda Consulting, shares how organizations can harness AI without compromising data integrity. He highlights the importance of getting the basics right for AI-driven insights. From managing unstructured data to addressing AI-powered threats, Bob also offers a comp...

The future of accessible AI isn't just about creating new technologies – it's about ensuring technologies serve everyone regardless of ability. Ioana Tanase, AI and Accessibility Program Manager at Microsoft, shares 97% of the world's websites are not accessible, underscoring the magnitude of the digital divide that people with disabilities face daily. This reveals the tremendous opportunities and critical responsibi...

AI agents represent the next frontier in artificial intelligence. Unlike traditional AI, which requires explicit instructions, AI agents can take actions on behalf of users and solve semi-complex tasks. This democratization of AI allows businesses of all sizes to compete on a level playing field and innovate in ways that were previously unimaginable. Sam Mallikarjunan, a growth strategist, entrepreneur, and the Growth Lead at agent...

Leadership plays a crucial role in driving digital transformation. A hands-on approach is exemplified by leaders like Jeff Bezos and Satya Nadella, who are actively involved in solving problems and understanding their businesses from the ground up — actively rolling up their sleeves and working alongside their teams. Learn why traditional operational approaches often fail in transformation initiatives with John Rossman, Thought Lea...

Join us as Javier Inclán, Assistant Inspector General for Management and CIO at the National Science Foundation - Office of Inspector General (NSF OIG), debunks the myth that government lags in technology. Discover how NSF OIG attracts top talent through programs like the NSF-funded Scholarship for Service, and learn about the critical role of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) in the workplace. Plus, explore th...

Imagine a world where sorting through stacks of invoices and summarizing financial reports is no longer a tedious task, but one accomplished quickly and accurately by AI. This picture is becoming increasingly a reality driven by technological advancements, private equity investments in CPA firms, and a shrinking talent pipeline. David Hartley, Partner-in-Charge of Advisory at Anders CPAs + Advisors, discusses AI adoption challenges...

The business technology landscape is rapidly evolving, but not in the ways many expected. Rather than returning to "normalcy" following the COVID-19 pandemic, organizations face new challenges in a more complex environment accelerated by digital transformation. Jon Reed, Co-Founder of diginomica, offers a unique perspective on responsible AI implementation, the gap between vendor hype and practical reality, and the import...

One of the key challenges in AI adoption is overcoming resistance rooted in misconceptions about what AI is and how it works. Daniel Larsson, Senior Architect at Cristie Nordic, highlights the importance of education in the AI adoption process. By demystifying AI and explaining its limitations as well as its capabilities, organizations can help employees feel more comfortable with the technology and understand its potential benefit...

How can we overcome the stigma that when one uses AI, it means they didn’t put any thought into their task? By understanding AI's strengths and limitations, we can create a distinction that the future of AI is not about automation, but collaboration. Maarten Eekels, Global Solution Director for Data & AI at Rapid Circle and Microsoft MVP & Regional Director shares his insights on adopting generative AI in businesses. H...

Empowering women in technology through education, mentorship, and networking—this is the mission of Christine Bongard, the co-founder and CEO of the WIT Network, a global non-profit organization dedicated on providing professional development, technology training, and leadership development for women. In this #shifthappens episode, we explore the impact of AI in the technology industry, addressing both the opportunities and challen...

Portugal is experiencing a cultural and digital shift with the bring-your-own-AI trend spanning across generations. According to the 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report from Microsoft and LinkedIn, 85% of Gen Z employees and 73% of boomers are already bringing their AI skills and knowledge to the workplace. Andrés Ortolá, General Manager of Microsoft Portugal, shares his insights on AI's potential to digitally transform tradit...