Imagine a world where AI seamlessly integrates into your daily workflows, driving productivity gains, efficiency increases, and automation. AI and in particular Generative AI is all over the media, and now companies are looking at how they should be introducing AI into the enterprise.While Generative AI platforms such as ChatGPT have been trained on publicly available data, they may not be suitable for always-on and mission-critical systems. So what’s the opportunity for enterprise-grade AI?To answer this question, I’m delighted to have on this episode Umesh Sachdev, CEO of Uniphore,  an Enterprise-class, AI-native company that has set out to transform businesses delivering compelling and engaging customer and employee experiences.As we navigate the exciting yet challenging landscape of AI, we discuss potential pitfalls along the way. Umesh candidly shares insights into vital areas like regulation, data security, and total cost of ownership.We dive into how regulation is necessary, including guardrails for AI ensuring ethical use of public data, and protecting against biases and inappropriate use. Umesh also provided three actionable steps to ready your business for the AI revolution.More on UmeshUmesh on LinkedInUmesh on XResources MentionedJolt Effect, The: How High Performers Overcome Customer IndecisionUniphore websiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

Can machines really think like humans? What is the future of General Artificial Intelligence (GAI) when machines more closely resemble human behaviour than ever before? In this episode, Peter unveils his journey into the realm of General Artificial Intelligence (GAI) and his vision of machines possessing the ability to think, learn, and reason like humans. We look at the intricacies of General AI and how it sets itself apart from narrow AI.The episode also looks at how companies are tackling the immense challenges associated with crafting machines with general intelligence - from understanding the significance of concept formation in artificial general intelligence to discussing the role of quantum computing and resources in AI development.Peter also provided his views on the potential of machines developing empathy and the role of AI in ethical and moral debates, and answers the questions I've always wanted to ask - can AI feel empathy and love? Finally, we take a peek into the future as Peter shares how Aigo.ai is harnessing the power of conversational AI to revolutionize personalised experiences. More on PeterPeter on LinkedInPeter on MediumAigo websitePeter Voss is the world's foremost authority in Artificial General Intelligence. He coined the term 'AGI' in 2001 and published a book on Artificial General Intelligence in 2002. He is a Serial AI entrepreneur, technology innovator who has for the past 20 years been dedicated to advancing Artificial General Intelligence. Peter Voss' careers include being an entrepreneur, engineer and scientist. His experience includes founding and growing a technology company from zero to a 400-person IPO. For the past 20 years, his focus has been on developing AGI (artificial general intelligence). In 2008 Peter founded Smart Action Company, which offers the only call automation solution powered by an AGI engine. He is now CEO & Chief Scientist at Aigo.ai Inc., which is developing and selling increasingly advanced AGI systems for large enterprise customers. Peter also has a keen interest in the inter-relationship between philosophy, psychology, ethics, futurism, and computer science.Your Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

In the race to dominate Al we have seen our data privacy, democracy, and even our human rights impacted. To understand what brands and consumers need to do to fight back, I spoke with Anton Christodoulou, Group Chief Technology Officer at leading experiential design company, Imagination and co-founder of the new Trust 3.0 initiative.The Trust 3.0 initiative  is a Data Privacy Advocacy Group convening the brightest minds in privacy, AI, and technology to champion responsible innovation for a safer society.I’m proud to say that I’m also a part of this timely initiative.Anton is responsible for overseeing Imagination's global technology strategy, project and service delivery execution; to deliver immersive, engaging and measurable experiences to clients including Mastercard, Ford, Major League Baseball, Jaguar Land Rover and Shell. I started our discussion by asking Anton more about Trust 3.0 and why it has been set up.This episode looks at its implications on data privacy for consumers and businesses and offers a deep dive into the necessity of transparency, security, and fair exchange of value in handling customer data. We also discuss how businesses can leverage this to promote trust and security.More on AntonAnton on LinkedInImagination websiteTrust 3.0 websiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

Consumers are beginning to understand that their personal data has real value, but it is still held in the hands of big technology companies.  The promise of consumers managing and owning their own data will become a reality thanks to decentralised or self-sovereign identity (SSI).To delve into this topic, I'm delighted to welcome onto the podcast Marie Wallace, Digital Identity Lead at Accenture.Marie and I both had the chance to work together at IBM and I've always enjoyed our discussions about analytics and data, and this conversation explains SSI in a very accessible way.Self-Sovereign Identity, or decentralized identity, is a model where individuals have full control over their personal data.During the episode, Marie debunked the common myth that implementing this model necessitates a blockchain, and we looked at the concept of "streaming trust".We also looked at Marie's instrumental role in projects like IBM's Digital Health Pass and New York's Excelsior Pass during the pandemic.A fascinating part of the discussion revolved around the concept of verifiable data, and the potential of AI in offering personalised career advice, primed with our own personal data.We also examined how companies might interact with customers to provide incentives for releasing individual data and how LinkedIn is starting to verify profiles to allow individuals to have more control over the data they own.This episode also looked at the integral role of trust networks, the need for secure digital wallets, and the exciting prospects of verifiable data.We also covered topics such asThe concept of "streaming trust" & how SSI worksSovereign identity & worker onboardingTrusting the trust providerThe need for secure, trusted digital walletsUsing SSI to validate my LinkedIn profileExploring the Concept of Verifiable DataEmpowering consumers with their own dataThe role of AI with SSI & personal dataSSI drivers: risk, cost, fraud reductionWhere do I store my SSI data?The Philosophy of Self-Sovereign IdentityExamples where SSI is working alreadySelf-Sovereign Identity and AI ExplorationsEmbedding trust with the supply chainAI uses in SSIEmpowering Individuals with Self-Sovereign IdentityWho needs to drive SSI adoption?The biggest challenge in SSIWhat are the steps to take to control my own data?Being more data literate and caring about your identity and online safetyThree actionable steps to manage your own identityMore on MarieMarie on LinkedInMarie on TwitterMarie's blogMarie's TED talkResources mentioned1PasswordYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

What if you could unlock the full potential of Generative AI and its impact on your life and company? Get ready for a fascinating fireside chat recorded live in front of an audience at the offices of leading international law firm RPC during London Tech Week.The Actionable Futurist Andrew Grill was interviewed on stage by Helen Armstrong, a Partner in RPC’s IP and technology disputes team.The discussion examined the risks, issues, and ethics surrounding this powerful technology and the roles played by giants like OpenAI, Google, and Facebook in this rapidly evolving space. This episode also covers the current applications and trends of generative AI in the retail and consumer sectors and how it's already making a mark on our daily lives. As we navigate the complex world of AI regulation, Andrew shared his insights on explainability, transparency, trust within AI systems, and the implications of the UK Government's white paper on AI. The episode also touched on the challenges of IP rights, GDPR, ongoing AI model training, and the importance of auditing systems to prevent bias.Don't miss this thought-provoking conversation as we uncover the incredible potential of generative AI, its ability to unleash creativity, and the crucial need for ethical use of this game-changing technology.We covered a lot of ground in this episode, including:Generative AI and Its ImpactChat GPT’s definition of a futuristWhat is Generative AI?Why AI is so popular nowThe risks of using Generative AIWhy ChatGPT so confidently provides incorrect answersHow ChatGPT actually worksChatGPT data sourcesIs ChatGPT that useful?The “magnet of mediocrity”Where is Generative AI being used?The “enthusiastic always-on intern”The need for critical thinkersThe responsible use of AIChallenges and Considerations for Generative AIThe AI black box problemThe challenges for regulation around AICan we trust AI?Regulation areas for AIGovernment response to AI regulationAre you involving your risk department around AI?Recruitment considerations for AI teamsThe future of Generative AIEnterprise AI ImplementationEnterpriseGPT challengesWill AI provide us with more free time to be creative?Actionable items for tomorrowYour two tribes and the opportunity for a hackathonWhy AI comes at a costIs your data “AI ready”?Will AI replace human creativity?Adobe’s AI productsAccenture’s use of AI generated imagery in a reportGenerative AI will drive more creativityAudience questions includedWho is responsible for ensuring AI training data is validWill AI disrupt or strengthen the economy?The environmental impacts of Generative AIThe difference between human emotional intelligence & creativity and replicating thisAs Generative AI improves, will it become more creative?Episode ResourcesMore on the eventYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

How will AI shape the future of marketing and advertising? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with our guest, Isabel Perry, VP of Emerging Technology at DEPT, as we explore the role of AI and its impact on various industries.Isabel shares valuable insights on how her background in architecture has prepared her for the challenges of working with cutting-edge technology and how DEPT's unique approach helps brands stay ahead of the competition throughout their digital customer journey. We dive deep into the myths and opportunities surrounding AI, augmented reality's potential societal impacts, and recall's power in AI-driven conversation management. Listen as Isabel discusses the ethical issues related to AI and content creation, the need for industry bodies to assist regulators, and the potential of AI to provide equal advantages for everyone. Finally, we examine the future of AI in marketing and how individuals and businesses can stay updated with the latest technology. Discover the skills needed for the advertising and marketing intern of the future and the potential of AI tools in streamlining the creative process.Join us for this enlightening conversation with Isabel Perry that covers everything from AI ethics to the future of marketing.More on IsabelIsabel on LinkedInDEPT WebsiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

When you settle into your seat on your next rail journey, see if you notice small towers dotted along the journey right next to the track. These are GSM-R base stations - a private GSM network for rail operators.Launched in the UK around 2007, the technology is based on the GSM mobile standard, and GSM-R suppliers have committed to support this system until 2030.So what’s the future of rail communications? Enter the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) using the latest 5G technologies.To learn more about the opportunity for this new mode of operation, I spoke with Jochen Apel, Global Vice President of Digital Industries at Nokia, on the latest Actionable Futurist Podcast.We explored the exciting world of 5G technology for rail networks and its potential for transforming the rail industry.We also discussed the unique benefits of upgrading from the existing GSMR system to a 5G-based system, such as faster data speeds, a larger ecosystem of vendors, and more data to support critical operations, automation, and asset management.Jochen also sheds light on the potential of the Future Rail Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) as a global standard.We dive into the trials being run by Nokia with customers and SNCF, SBB, and Deutsche Bahn, and discuss the transition process for rail operators moving to FRMCS systems.Don't miss this enlightening episode as we uncover the advantages of 5G technology integration for rail networks and learn what smart rail operators can do now to prepare for this imminent change.We covered topics such as:What is the future of Rail?The Future Rail Mobile Communication System (FRMCS)What is holding back the move to FRMCSUnique benefits of the Nokia approachThe opportunity for FRMCS to become a global standard5G's use in Rail NetworksNew services unlocked by FRMCSTransitioning to new FRMCS servicesWhat should smart rail operators be doing to prepare?What does a forward-looking rail operator look like?Three actionable things to better understand the needs of modern transportation networksMore on JochenJochen on LinkedInNokia FRMCS solution websiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

Baby Boomers, Generation X, Gen Y, Millennials, Gen Z and now Gen Alpha. Is it right to define whole generations with a letter, and are we all that different?How can understanding generational differences pave the way for a successful future in the workforce, and how will Generative AI impact different generations? To answer these questions and more, I spoke with Social Researcher Mark McCrindle, who has spent his career examining each generation and how technology and societal issues affect each type.In this far-ranging discussion, we also covered:Putting labels on generationsHow technology impacts each generationTechnology adoption across the generationsEncouraging older generations to become digitally curiousGenerational Impact on Workforce DynamicsThe Generations and the future of workThe impact of hybrid working in each generation.Hybrid Work, Employee ExperienceWhere does wellness fit into the modern workplace?The importance of “employee experience”Future Employment Culture and ImpactThe need for re-skilling the workforceThe impact of Generative AI on the workforceEnterprise GPT impactsAdvice for leaders to attract and retain talentWhat is the future of work and how do we get there?Three actionable tips to better understand the changing workforceIf you want to understand how technology is likely to affect each generation and what is the future of work, then this episode is for you.Join us as we discuss the generational impact of technology on society and the workplace with Mark McCrindle, founder and principal of McCrindle Research. Prepare to uncover insights into how generational labels define us, and the crucial role they play in shaping workforce dynamics.We'll delve into the importance of bridging the gap between young and experienced employees, as well as the future of hybrid work and the significance of employee experience in retaining top talent. Learn how bringing together diverse generations within the workplace creates a level playing field, fosters understanding, and ultimately prepares organizations for the challenges ahead.Mark shares his wisdom on the importance of fostering organizational culture and investing in training and development to attract, retain, and empower the best talent. Don't miss this engaging conversation with Mark McCrindle, where we uncover the mysteries of generational impact, technology, and the future of work in a world of Generative AI.More on MarkMark on LinkedInMcCrindle ResearchYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

We all know that ethics are important in AI, but beyond doing the right thing, are we actually focusing on the things that matter with the current AI tools? While ChatGPT can write you an analysis of a Shakespeare play to help you pass the semester, should AI be used for more pressing world problems - and are we building AI on the wrong paradigm?AI Ethicist Stephanie Antonian thinks so. I first met Stephanie at a recent Cadastra event around e-commerce, and over networking drinks, we debated these points about AI.Having worked for Accenture, Google, DeepMind and GoogleX, she has been thinking about the role of AI in humanity for some time.She has written a series of essays, the latest one titled: “On Generative AI: Denying the Necessary Limits of Knowledge” and asks the question: What if uncertainty was the secret to advancing knowledge?Her thinking sparked my curiosity, so a few weeks ago, I packed my portable podcast recorder and we went for a 90-minute walk around London’s Regent’s Park to discuss these issues and more.We covered a lot of ground (literally around 4 kilometres) and one phrase that captivated me was "AI is a love letter to humanity".We explore this and much more in this fascinating episode including:How Stephanie got started in AI EthicsStephanie's experience with AIThe biggest issue in AI Ethics at the momentDealing with algorithmic biasThe issue with AI regulationHighlights of working for Google, Deep Mind and XAdvice for graduates working in techHow can AI be used for good?Dealing with the hype around Generative AI and ChatGPTHumanity’s problem of fact vs fictionThe problem with ChatGPTOpen-sourcing the truth to train AIShould AI development be halted?Stephanie’s essaysLove and AIThe role of empathy in AIThe link between AI and self-worthThe hysteria in the AI industryAre we building AI on the wrong paradigm?The opportunity for AIThe need for ethics and integrity in AIWhere will the next phase of positive innovation come from?AI’s love letter to humanityWill AI take our jobs?How does AI compare to previous innovations?Are you worried about AI?Three actionable tips to better understanding AI opportunities & threatsMore on StephanieStephanie on LinkedInAestora websiteStephanie’s EssaysYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

AI Ethics isn’t just something we should be aware of - it is a movement according to Gaurav Rao from AtScale. Gaurav says “To me AI Ethics is a movement. and the reason why I define it as a movement is I think it has two distinct parts. There's technical frameworks that are continuing to evolve, and there's societal best practices, and both of these are put in conjunction to drive the responsible use of AI.Gaurav is EVP & GM of Machine Learning and AI at AtScale and has been working in the AI space for a long time, and he really knows this topic. This episode is a really interesting one, as it peels away the layers of AI and ethics and challenges you to think about how your internal processes are structured to support the ethical use of AI.Bad decisions made by AI may have a limited impact when it comes to song choices, but when reviewing who might get a home loan or health insurance, it could have far-reaching societal implications.Gaurav argues that the issue of AI Ethics goes beyond the risk and legal departments and is something that your marketing and sales teams should be looking at now.As always, the Actionable Futurist Podcast show also provides actionable advice you can put into place today and next week.We discussed a range of issues related to AI and ethics including:Ethical considerations when developing AI systems and modelsThe implications of bad decisions when AI is involvedThe role of regulation and AI ethicsThe ethical challenges Governments face with AIHow can we trust AI systemsInvolving the Chief Risk Officer in AI discussionsWhere to go to learn more about ethics AI issuesMany of my clients have set up AI working groups to share best practices across departments because AI is now no longer the domain of the tech teams, it is permeating every area of every company.With AI in the news on a daily basis, you need to consider the ethical use of AI in your business, so set aside 35 minutes this week and listen to this episode.More about GauravGaurav on LinkedInAtScale websiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

We’ve heard so much over the last few months about Generative AI and in particular, ChatGPT, so what does it all mean for companies, and what’s coming next?To answer these questions and more, I spoke with Heather Dawe, UK Head of Data at UST. She is is a well-known Data Leader with over 20 years of experience working across the industry.Heather has worked at a senior level as a Statistician and Data Scientist within government, the wider public sector and industry.With expertise in the health, retail, telecommunications, insurance and finance domains, Heather seeks to problem-solve and innovate with real-world challenges, within large organisations, academia, start-ups and incubators.She also pioneered the development of multi-disciplinary data science teams within the UK public sector.Heather is passionate about helping others to develop their skills and expertise. She is an advocate for democratising AI as well as achieving greater diversity in those who develop it.We covered a range of important topics in the field of Generative AI including:Defining AI and Machine LearningWhere Generative AI fits in the AI familyWhat the “GPT” in ChatGPT meansHow ChatGPT actually worksChat GPT3 vs ChatGPT4Is ChatGPT a step-change moment for AI?Are we expecting too much from AI?Do we need a pause on AI developments?How can we regulate new AI platforms?How Heather has been using ChatGPTDoes ChatGPT have a political bias?The power of Generative AI for company dataHow Cybercriminals could be using Generative AIHeather’s work with clients at USTGenerative AI predictions in 1, 3 and 5 yearsThree actionable things to better understand AI systemsMore on HeatherHeather on LinkedInUST WebsiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

Does Generative AI restrict our freedom to think if we ask it to do everything for us? To answer this question, I spoke with international Human Rights Lawyer, Author and Speaker and author of  “Freedom to Think: The Long Struggle to Liberate our Minds.” Susie Alegre.We last spoke to Susie on the podcast in 2022, before the Generative AI tool ChatGPT had been released, so in this show, Susie provided an update on her views on ChatGPT and AI in general.We looked at the current trends in AI, and Susie provided some advice for the big tech companies about how they take the next steps with these powerful tools.In a recent interview, she said: “If artificial intelligence doesn’t know the answer, it simply makes up plausible response, but it automates the prejudices of our societies and delivers them with the confidence of a crypto salesman”.She asks the question we're all asking - Chat GPT: What is it for?To end the podcast, she provided three actionable tips on how to best use Generative AI tools:1. think about why you're using it instead of using your own brain or your own time2. Don't believe a word it says; double check possibly through Google or maybe go to a library 3. Play with it. But don't trust it.This show provides a fascinating update to our previous podcast and is very timely.More on Susie can be found on her website.You can purchase her book here.Listen to our first podcast here.Your Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

What traits does the leader of the future need to survive? To answer this question, I spoke to Hannah Greenwood, an international Leadership Speaker, Coach and Writer who works with individuals and global teams to facilitate creative enquiry and implement change.She founded Cascãd over 19 years ago and specialises in developing the "Champion Mindset" - the alchemic combination of innovative thinking and positive energy.Cascãd’s Champion Mindset has helped individuals and companies achieve extraordinary things by harnessing the potential of true change.Hannah is an Associate at London Business School and was formerly Head of Counselling Courses at the Metanoia Training Institute for Psychotherapy and an Adjunct Professor at HULT International Business School teaching the MBA Leadership Module.She combines her leadership, teaching and therapeutic expertise to enable individuals to engage with their passion and to achieve excellence in their chosen field.We covered so many things related to the future of leadership, including:• What is a champion mindset, and why do we need one?• The difference between working one-on-one and working with a team.• The issue of presenteeism• Encouraging leaders to create teams that others want to join• Creating modern leaders• Transformational inner changeShe also recommended an excellent book during the quickfire round, so you must listen to the end.Resources mentioned in the showWomen Who Run With the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype by Clarissa Pinkola EstesMore on HannahHannah on LinkedInCascãd websiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

I’ve been guilty of quoting the phrase “The subscription Economy” many times over the last few years without really knowing who coined it - its origins are actually with Tien Tzuo, CEO of Zuora.To explain more, I was joined by John Smith Phillips, Senior Vice President of SVP Sales & General Manager, EMEA at Zuora on the latest Actionable Futurist Podcast.We looked at how subscription services might adapt in the future and looked at how John and his clients are currently moving towards a recurring revenue model.Zuora has helped businesses in all industries transition to subscription models, working with businesses from the Guardian to Schneider Electric.As John mentions, when you have a recurring revenue model and platform, you can actually see how your customers are consuming the service - and make changes or better versions of the existing product. This is a fascinating chat about something many of us take for granted.More on JohnJohn on LinkedInZuora WebsiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

5G networks are all about speed and capacity, so private 5G networks are just a closed version of the same - right? Think again. Private wireless networks are on the rise, and to find out more, I spoke with Shahid Ahmed, Group EVP of New Ventures and Innovation at NTT, on the latest Actionable Futurist Podcast.He is responsible for driving new digital experiences, offerings and technologies that create growth and transform people’s lives and companies and brings over 25 years of experience leading large services businesses with a focus on business transformation.In this show, we looked at several issues, including:• The difference between public and private 5G networks• The strengths of WiFi vs Private 5G• The opportunity for edge computing and 5G services• How NTT drives innovation• The power of a distributed workforce5G private networks won’t replace WiFi but will deliver new services in locations and industries requiring increased security and control.NTT surveyed 200 CIOs within the industrial manufacturing and automotive sectors, and they cited that the reason for deploying private 5G networks was not because of latency and speed but because of the inherent need for security and control.More on ShahidShahid on LinkedInNTT Global on TwitterNTT at Mobile World Congress 2023Your Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

Remote working as an option for the modern workforce is here to stay - so what advice would someone who's been working remotely for years have for others?To answer this question, I spoke with Mark Pinsent, Managing Director, Europe for The Hoffman Agency - a leading Technology PR company.Mark graduated in 1992 with a degree in Information and Computing Science but his creative streak saw him enter the world of marketing and communications.He says he’s spent 28 happy years developing and delivering campaigns for B2B and B2C brands in the UK and internationally.In the second half of the podcast, from the 36:44 mark, we spoke about the art of storytelling and how PR can help organisations tell a great story.Mark is coming to us today from his “location agnostic” office in France.The episode is a long one, just over an hour, but worth listening to every minute.We recorded this back in June 2022, when things were stating to return to normal. Thankfully in March 2023, things seem much more open.More on MarkMark on LinkedInMark on InstagramMark’s Landrover Sandy on InstagramMark on TwitterThe Hoffman Agency websiteThe World for Sale bookYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

We’ve heard of “full-stack Engineers”, but what is a Full Stack CMO? To find out I spoke with Maya Moufarek, CEO of strategic growth consultancy Marketing Cube for the latest Actionable Futurist Podcast.Maya has over 15 years in the tech and direct-to-consumer industries with roles at Google, Amex, Cisco and LG and she is passionate about working with ambitious entrepreneurs and purpose-driven CEOs to deliver truly sustainable growth.She says she is proud to be multicultural and multilingual, having had the pleasure of living and working in Moscow, Paris, Amsterdam, New York City, San Francisco and here in London.We covered a lot of issues related to marketing in start-up companies, including:What it means to be a "Full-stack CMO” Understanding the human psyche to be a good marketerThe secret to building sustainable & profitable growth plansThe one common mistake that start-up CEOs makeThe specific characteristics of high-growth companiesAdvice for early-stage start-upsMore about MayaMaya on LinkedInMaya on TwitterMarketing Cube WebsiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

“Permacrisis” was the 2022 Collins Dictionary word of the year, and this year, people are seeking ways to adapt in an uncertain world.Accenture identified five emerging trends that will alter the power dynamic between brands and customers in the coming 12 months and beyond:1: Permacrisis and human adaptability2: What’s next for loyalty?3: The importance of work intangibles4: AI is now in people’s hands for creativity5: Digital wallets: a question of adoptionThis year, people are seeking ways to adapt in an uncertain world.​Emerging technologies are giving control to the people, with never-before-seen outcomes for businesses and individuals.Artificial intelligence lets people express their natural creativity, Web3 offers the chance to help shape the brands they love, and tokenization may soon hand them full control over their personal data.How will brands build trust and leverage new technologies for growth?Building on the 15-year legacy of Fjord Trends, this report—Accenture Life Trends 2023—has the same inspiring content. This year's report is rooted in life centricity and examines the ways in which people are adapting their lives and making use of emerging technology to meet their changing needs.To examine the report in greater detail, we spoke to Katie Burke,  Accenture Song’s Metaverse Continuum Global Content & Offering Lead, working with clients around the globe on their entry into the next wave of the internet.Sitting within Accenture Song’s innovation and thought leadership practice, she currently serves as the lead content writer for the annual Life Trends report, as well as leading Accenture Song’s ground-up innovation program, that explores technologies that are signalling on the future of humanity, future of interactions, and future of brands.Katie’s career has been at the intersection of humans, innovation, and creativity. She has created three metaverse experiences for Accenture since the start of the pandemic and has created two thriving digital communities, which is one of the key attributes of Web3.Resources mentionedAccenture Life Trends Report 2023Dom Price, Work Futurist at Atlassian PodcastDr Lynn Gribble on the opportunities for Generative AI in EducationSolid Project at MITMore on KatieKatie on LinkedInKatie on Accenture.comYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

What’s the future of finance?To answer this question I spoke with James Butland, Vice President of Financial Partnerships, EMEA for Airwallex.Airwallex was founded by four friends, Jack Zhang, Max Li, Lucy Liu, and Xijing Dai, in Melbourne, Australia in 2015 and was inspired by real-life experiences.Out of their love for good coffee, engineering-banking friends Jack Zhang and Max Li started Tukk & Co, a café in Melbourne. As small business owners, they recognised first-hand the impact of high foreign exchange (FX) fees and banking costs on their profit margins, and sought out to build a better solution for businesses operating cross-border, improving on the constraints of the current global financial system.Specifically they wanted to solve the pain points surrounding cross-border transactions and empower businesses of all sizes to operate anywhere, anytime.What's the future of the financial services industry?The financial services industry is undergoing a radical transformation, partly through the forces demanded by regulation, as well as the needs of consumers and small and large enterprises.New Banking-as-a-Service (BaaS) platforms can help to drive improved customer experience and business growth, and also could be the key to unlocking the future of the financial services industry.Increasingly companies are now investing in incorporating financial products and services into their core business models. To meet this rising demand for embedded finance, traditional financial institutions and challengers are increasingly offering BaaS options.But where do you start?James answers these questions and more, including how new banking platforms can empower a “talent anywhere” strategy for a reimagined workforce, allowing the best people to be hired no matter where they live, even if a company doesn’t have a physical presence in that country.More on JamesJames on LinkedInAirwallex websiteYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book

Finance, meet Sustainability. On this episode of the podcast, I spoke with Andromeda (Andie) Wood who is Vice President for Regulatory Strategy for Workiva. She is an expert in the role of technology in corporate reporting, taxonomy design and data modelling, and holds a wealth of knowledge and deep understanding of the impact of EU and UK regulation on global firms, particularly in the areas of corporate transparency and ESG. There is an undeniable global shift towards greater standardisation in reporting ESG initiatives across markets.As it stands, corporate reporting comprises the financial statements and management reports of companies, including non-financial and corporate governance statements, as well as country-by-country reporting. Under the new directive, reports would also include sustainability information.While new standards consolidate several diverse formats previously used for reporting on ESG progress, Andie explains why transforming standards will cultivate a more hygienic reporting culture that will champion ESG results.We covered a lot of ground in this podcast, such as:Push for improvement: These new standards address a worrying lack of clarity on how to report on sustainability, including information on methodology requirements, to more accurately highlight failure pointsFuture-proof ESG reporting: They will help businesses to mitigate challenges and prepare for the unknown by implementing processes that establish flexibility and controlAcknowledging that ESG plays a direct role in top-line growth: New standards establish critical business success factors, highlighting the role of ESG and encouraging businesses to integrate it into the overall business strategyMoving towards international comparability: An incremental, but mindful, transition towards transparent reporting will help to build up a rich history of reporting across regions which investors can use to better judge business progress, both individually and competitivelyThis was an interesting podcast and introduced me to the link between finance and sustainability.More on AndieAndie on LinkedInAndie on TwitterAndie’s insights at WorkivaYour Host: Actionable Futurist® & Chief Futurist Andrew GrillFor more on Andrew - what he speaks about and recent talks, please visit ActionableFuturist.com Andrew's Social ChannelsAndrew on LinkedIn@AndrewGrill on Twitter @Andrew.Grill on InstagramKeynote speeches hereAndrew's upcoming book