Tech Talks Daily

In today's episode of Tech Talks Daily, I am joined by Michael Burdick, Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Paro, the disruptive startup changing how companies connect with on-demand financial talent. Burdick, a leading authority in the freelance marketplace industry, will delve into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and freelancing, a domain where he sees a promising future for AI. Freelance marketplaces have often found it difficult to compete with larger, more established Managed Service Providers (MSPs), due to concerns around risk, security, compliance, and potential misclassification lawsuits. Michael, however, believes in the power of AI to level the playing field. Through Paro, he has demonstrated how AI can help these platforms not only compete but also scale and disrupt the industry. Throughout the conversation, we explore the challenges faced by freelance marketplaces in competing with traditional MSPs, and how AI can be a game-changer. They also delve into the transformative impact of AI on the gig economy, offering greater flexibility and choice to high earners in the freelance world and challenging traditional employment norms. In addition to these broader industry topics, the discussion also spotlights Paro's innovative use of AI in its platform. From financial modeling and expert talent selection to potential applications in areas like pricing, business optimization, and professional career growth, Paro is leveraging AI to redefine how freelance marketplaces function. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of freelancing, the disruptive potential of AI in this space, and the innovative work being done at Paro. As Paro's founder, chief strategy officer, and interim CFO, Michael Burdick is uniquely positioned to provide these insights, offering a fresh, forward-thinking perspective on the rapidly evolving freelance marketplace industry. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion.

Today, I'm joined by Chris Ebeling, an industry-renowned animator, creative director, writer, and digital artist who recently joined Behaviol's leadership team. Chris shares insights from his extensive experience, having worked on Hollywood blockbusters and AAA gaming cinematic productions, as well as innovative projects such as ZED.RUN, a blockchain-based, digital horse racing game. We explore the fascinating world of Behaviol, a tech studio at the cutting edge of sports gaming. Behaviol stands out with its revolutionary use of artificial intelligence and machine learning to create unique digital athletes. Starting with their flagship game, META11, they're pioneering the world's first free-to-play triple-A sports gaming omniverse, which is set to transform the sports entertainment industry. Join us as we delve into the intricate use of AI to train digital avatars in META11, discuss the ethical considerations of integrating AI in gaming, and predict how AI and digital avatars are going to reshape the future of esports. We also address how the fusion of traditional sports and esports is leading to a new era of immersive gaming, attracting major sports brands to extend their reach and fan engagement. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that explores the intersection of AI, gaming, and sports, with a sprinkle of privacy considerations and cultural representation in the gaming world.

On this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with William Glazier, an expert from Cequence Security to delve into the ins and outs of the groundbreaking "API Protection Report: Holiday Build-up Shows 550% Jump in Unique Threats." This revealing report is based on an analysis of approximately a trillion transactions spanning a variety of industries and uncovers the pressing API threat trends that are currently challenging organizations. We unpack key findings, such as a 900% spike in shadow APIs, a worrying 550% increase in unique threats during the holiday season, and a surprising revelation that API and web application security tactics are being combined by attackers, leading to a 220% increase in anomalous traffic. Join us as we dive deep into the conversation about the vital role of API security in today's digital landscape and how Cequence Security stands out with its history of mitigating bot attacks and its keen focus on both risk analysis and blocking malicious traffic. We'll also explore the alarming rise in fraud and retool attempts in the telecom industry and discuss how businesses can navigate the expanding threat landscape while safeguarding both legacy and new APIs. Listen in as we envision the future of API security, highlighting the role of generative AI in developing robust testing methods and ensuring that security becomes an integrated part of application development. Don't miss this eye-opening episode that sets a new standard in understanding the evolving threats and strategies in API security.

In today's digitized world, the security of our data is paramount. Understanding the complexity of data breaches and developing robust security strategies can often be a challenging task for businesses. To shed light on this critical issue, I'm thrilled to have Terry Ray from Imperva, a global leader in cybersecurity, on Tech Talks Daily. Terry brings a wealth of knowledge to our discussion, focusing on the key findings from Imperva's '100 Data Breaches Findings' report. We delve into the root causes of data breaches, from hacking and unsecured databases to the prevalent menace of social engineering. We also examine the types of data most frequently targeted by cybercriminals and identify the industries most susceptible to these attacks. In our conversation, Terry underscores the importance of comprehensive data security strategies, emphasizing the need for monitoring all data activity and not just a few servers. He shares valuable insights into common oversights in data security, such as the lack of multi-factor authentication and limited visibility of activity monitoring. Terry also outlines his work on developing algorithms to assess and improve data security risk scores for organizations, a testament to Imperva's integrated approach that combines edge, application security, and data security. Whether you're a seasoned tech professional, an entrepreneur navigating the digital world, or simply someone curious about cybersecurity, this episode offers a deep-dive into the world of data breaches. So join us as we unravel the complex terrain of data security with Terry Ray. To get more insights from the '100 Data Breaches Findings' report, visit https://www.imperva.com/ and stay one step ahead of the threat landscape.

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I'm joined by Hugo Bergmann from Seagate, a global leader in data storage solutions, to tackle a significant problem facing today's businesses: the rising and often unsustainable costs of data storage. According to recent statistics, more than half of British businesses' IT leaders are grappling with the spiraling costs of data storage, which are becoming untenable. With some companies spending as much as £231k per year, many businesses are compelled to delete data that could potentially unlock revenue-generating innovation, a decision they can ill-afford in a world where data is king. What's worse, over half of IT leaders believe their senior leadership remains oblivious to the magnitude of the problem. During our discussion, Hugo and I delve into this pressing issue, exploring how the current global economic crisis has exacerbated the need to curb data costs without losing the valuable insights that data offers. We shed light on the necessity of better data management and discuss innovative strategies such as storage-as-a-service models, that can help predict costs more accurately. Hugo also highlights Seagate's commitment to fostering a circular economy in the data storage industry. We discuss the importance of refurbishing and reusing storage devices, thereby extending their lifespan, and the steps the data storage industry can take toward creating a sustainable data sphere. Whether you're an IT leader battling ballooning data storage costs or a tech enthusiast interested in the future of data management, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Tune in as we navigate the challenges and possibilities in the realm of data storage with Hugo Bergmann.

In this compelling episode of Tech Talks Daily, we delve into a hot topic that concerns us all: internet privacy. Zenobia Godschalk, the Founder of ZAG Communications and Senior Vice President of Communications for Hedera Hashgraph, joins me to explore the notion of personal data being bought and sold online and how we, the people, have become "the product." With a wealth of experience in high-tech PR, blockchain, and cybersecurity, Zenobia shares her insights on how we can utilize blockchain technology to shape the internet that we deserve rather than the internet that we have today. She takes us on a deep dive into the world of Web3 and its transformative potential for application builders, developers, and businesses. We explore the real-world adoption of blockchain and DLT, focusing on their vital role in the future of business and the benefits they can bring. Zenobia provides valuable tips and tools for enterprise architects, enabling them to enhance their blockchain security practices and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity. This episode is particularly beneficial for enterprise architects, application builders, developers, women in tech, CEOs, IT decision-makers, and founders interested in blockchain/DLT, Web3, blockchain security, the metaverse, sustainability, women in Web3, and women in tech. Whether you're an enthusiast of emerging technologies or simply interested in better understanding internet privacy and how to safeguard it, this conversation with Zenobia Godschalk is a must-listen. Join us as we explore the intriguing intersection of privacy, blockchain, and the future of the internet.

In this episode of Tech Talks Daily, I sit down with Raghu Nandakumara, a seasoned cybersecurity expert and Head of Industry Solutions at Illumio, a company at the forefront of zero trust segmentation technology. Raghu brings us insights into where business leaders need to focus their attention to achieve maximum ROI on cybersecurity investments. We dive deep into the critical importance of proving ROI in the first six months of deployment, discussing how vendors need to support businesses in achieving a quick payback. We explore an ideal ROI percentage and compare how Illumio measures up against industry averages. Raghu also highlights the often overlooked and less quantifiable benefits that can't be ignored. These range from the growing institutional knowledge to the regulatory compliance benefits. We address why many organizations do a poor job of tracking ROI on security products post-purchase and how this trend needs to change. We also examine the findings from the Forrester Total Economic Impact of Illumio Zero Trust Segmentation (ZTS) study. Illumio's platform demonstrated a total benefit of $10.2 million over three years and paid for itself in just six months. Whether you're a business leader trying to justify security spend or a cybersecurity professional looking to stay on top of the latest trends, this episode with Raghu Nandakumara is not to be missed.

In this thought-provoking episode of Tech Talks Daily, we dive into the cutting-edge insights from the Accenture Technology Vision 2023 report titled "When Atoms Meet Bits: The Foundations of Our New Reality." Joining us is Michael Biltz from Accenture, who sheds light on the transformative technology trends shaping the convergence of the physical and digital worlds. Michael and our host Neil explore the fascinating world of generative AI and its potential to augment human capability as a co-pilot, creative partner, or advisor. Discover how generative AI is poised to spark significant creativity and innovation while ushering in a new era of enterprise intelligence. With as much as 40% of working hours expected to be supported or augmented by language-based AI, Michael explains why AI foundation models are crucial for organizations' future strategies. The discussion deepens into the strategic importance of digital identity technologies, the authentication of digital users and assets, and how they form the foundation for traversing both digital and physical realms. Uncover the impact of data transparency on business success, as well as the increasing role data plays as a key competitive differentiator. As we look to the future, Michael outlines the powerful feedback loop between science and technology, and its potential to unlock the world's grand challenges. Learn how Accenture is at the forefront of driving these disruptive technologies forward, including the establishment of their Generative AI and Large Language Model (LLM) Center of Excellence. Join us in exploring Accenture's Technology Vision 2023, where we discuss the convergence of the digital and physical worlds, the transformative potential of generative AI, the significance of data transparency, and the feedback loop between science and technology. As the line between the physical and digital worlds becomes increasingly blurred, this episode is a must-listen for technology enthusiasts, business leaders, and anyone curious about the future of business in a rapidly evolving world.

I sit down with Ryan George, the CMO of Docupace, a leading cloud-based fintech platform transforming the back office processes in the financial services industry. With over 15 years of marketing and communications experience in finance, Ryan shares his journey and how he became a driving force in modernizing and digitizing the back office. Discover the transformative trends in fintech and wealth management tech as Ryan sheds light on what's worth paying attention to and what might be overhyped, including the role of cryptocurrency and the potential impact of AI in the industry's future. The COVID pandemic accelerated the back office revolution in wealth management, and Ryan emphasizes the importance of digitizing and transforming these processes to enhance efficiency and improve the client experience. Learn how Docupace's platform played a significant role in transforming operations for leading financial firms like RBC wealth management by reducing processing time and paperwork rejections. Docupace's impressive journey is backed by over $70 million in funding, and the company serves some of the largest independent broker-dealers and registered investment advisers (RIAs) in the financial services industry. Tune in to hear how Docupace earned accolades like being named to the 2021 Inc. 5000 list of America's fastest-growing private companies and winning the 2021 Gold Globee Award for "Hot Technology of the Year." Ryan's admiration for business leader Jamie Dimon, CEO of JP Morgan Chase, stems from his optimism and perspective, and he discusses how technology is reshaping the financial industry. Don't miss this episode where Ryan George shares his expertise and insights into the future of financial advice and how technology will revolutionize the financial services landscape in the years to come. Whether you're a financial professional, tech enthusiast, or interested in the future of finance, this episode offers a fascinating exploration of the back office revolution and its transformative impact on the industry.

I have the pleasure of hosting Slava Podmurnyi, the Co-Founder and CEO of Visartech, a leading software technology partner specializing in custom software solutions. With over 13 years of experience in applying technology to diverse business niches, Slava brings a unique perspective and valuable insights to the table. Join us as Slava shares his journey, starting with WizardTech Incorporated, a game development studio that evolved into Visartech, with a laser focus on AR and 3D solutions. Discover how Visartech has become a reliable tech partner, helping businesses tackle major challenges and turn them into intelligent and interactive solutions. Slava's expertise spans various areas, including digital twin ecosystems, metaverse platforms, and SaaS products. Tune in as he discusses the significance of adopting new technologies and remote work in today's business landscape. Learn how optimizing IT infrastructure with DevOps practices can save business funds while building a strong foundation for applications. Explore the world of digital twins and their transformative capabilities, from simulating processes to predicting problems and training employees. Slava sheds light on the power of a bespoke metaverse with solid backend architecture and interactive interfaces, creating immersive 3D experiences that enhance user interactions. We discuss the adoption and feedback of metaverse technology among big tech companies, exploring its potential applications in training, education, and beyond. Uncover the rising demand for content generation using AI tools, leading to faster application development and enhanced user experiences. Visartech Inc. has a remarkable track record of crafting digital masterpieces for brands, from SMBs to Fortune Global 500 corporations. Discover some of their best cases, including a metaverse for remote collaboration, a golf simulation platform for the sports industry, and a fintech solution for secure lending. Don't miss this episode filled with valuable insights from Slava Podmurnyi, as he shares how Visartech is shaping the future of software solutions and paving the way for innovative business experiences. Whether you're a business leader, developer, or technology enthusiast, this episode offers an inspiring and informative conversation on the potential of digital twins and the metaverse.