

Project Flux
Project Flux
Project Flux is a pioneering podcast that explores the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence across various industries, including construction, music, infrastructure, and life sciences, with a focus on revolutionising the project delivery profession. Each episode brings to light how AI is redefining efficiency, innovation, and strategic decision-making in project management. Through engaging conversations with industry leaders, technologists, and forward-thinkers, the podcast offers a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities AI introduces, the nuances of its integration, and its potential to reshape project delivery on a global scale. Project Flux is the go-to resource for professionals seeking to navigate the evolving landscape of AI in project delivery, offering insights, strategies, and inspiration to harness the power of AI for a more innovative and effective future.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 12, 2025 • 35min
Weekly Pulse - Navigating AI Innovations at Microsoft
Send us a textIn this episode of Project Flux Weekly Pulse, James Garner and Yoshi Soornack discuss their experiences at the Microsoft AI Open Day, highlighting the challenges of naming conventions in AI products and the potential of Microsoft's Copilot. They also explore Mistral's new OCR technology, which aims to improve document processing accuracy. The conversation shifts to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors' new AI standards for surveying, emphasising the need for guidance in the industry. Finally, they delve into the emergence of general AI agents, discussing their capabilities and the future of AI development.TakeawaysThe Microsoft AI Open Day provided valuable insights into AI applications.Naming conventions in AI products can be confusing and need improvement.Mistral's OCR technology aims to enhance document processing accuracy.RICS is taking a proactive approach to AI standards in surveying.General AI agents are emerging, capable of executing multiple tasks simultaneously.The future of AI development may involve fleets of agents working together.AI tools need to be user-friendly for tech professionals.Institutions must provide guidance on AI integration and safety.The rise of automation in AI may change job roles significantly.The competition in AI is driving innovation and accessibility. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Project Flux Weekly Pulse02:11 Insights from Microsoft AI Open Day11:36 Exploring Mistral's OCR Technology17:04 Exploring AI Tools and Their Applications18:59 AI Standards in Surveying: A Step Forward22:01 The Rise of General AI Agents29:00 The Future of Automation and AI Agents33:22 Anticipating Upcoming AI Developments34:52 Unleash the Code Intro.wavSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Mar 7, 2025 • 43min
90% of Construction Workflows Are About to Be Automated—Are You Ready?
Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, host James Garner speaks with Owen Drury, co-founder of Bricks and Bytes podcast and founder of ODQS. They discuss Owen's transition from a career in quantity surveying to podcasting, the insights gained from various guests, and the impact of AI on the construction industry. The conversation also touches on personal branding, productivity tips, and the potential of agentic workflows in transforming traditional work processes. Owen shares valuable advice for building a personal brand and emphasises the importance of being authentic and active in the industry.TakeawaysOwen realised he is more creative than analytical after starting podcasting.The podcasting world allows for more creative expression compared to quantity surveying.AI has the potential to significantly impact the construction industry.Implementing AI in construction faces challenges due to outdated data practices.Agentic workflows could revolutionise how tasks are completed in construction.Personal branding is crucial in a crowded industry; authenticity matters.Engaging with trending topics can boost visibility on platforms like LinkedIn.Productivity systems can greatly enhance efficiency in business operations.It's important to be prepared for criticism when building a personal brand.Reflecting on life goals is essential for personal fulfillment. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Owen Drury and His Ventures02:56 Transitioning from Quantity Surveying to Podcasting05:33 Insights from Guests on the Bricks and Bytes Podcast08:35 Defining Characteristics of Successful Entrepreneurs11:13 Challenges of Implementing AI in Construction14:07 Innovative Use Cases of AI in the Industry20:35 The Rise of Agentic Workflows23:58 AI as a Companion in Workflows27:56 The Future of Data in AI31:09 Reimagining Workflows in Construction33:28 Building a Personal Brand in Construction38:33 Advice for Success in Business42:22 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights42:45 Engagement and Community BuildingLinks and StuffBricks & Bytes PodcastOwen's Linked InODQS WebsiteSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Mar 5, 2025 • 27min
The Weekly Pulse - GPT-4.5: A Game Changer in AI Technology
Send us a textIn this episode of The Weekly Pulse from Project Flux, James Garner and Yoshi Soornack discuss the latest developments in AI, including the release of GPT-4.5, the evolution of AI models, and the impact of AI on software development and robotics. They explore the implications of these advancements for users and the ethical considerations surrounding physical AI. The conversation also highlights the potential for anyone to become a developer with the help of AI tools, emphasising the limitless possibilities in technology today.TakeawaysThe podcast has been restructured to include live streaming.GPT-4.5 is a significant update but seen as a stopgap.AI models are evolving towards reasoning capabilities.Coding is becoming accessible to everyone through AI tools.Robotics is advancing rapidly, with new models showing human-like precision.Ethics in AI is becoming increasingly important as physical robots emerge.AI can enhance productivity and creativity in various fields.The integration of AI into everyday tasks is transforming industries.Users should be aware of the differences between AI models.Future developments in AI and robotics are anticipated to be groundbreaking.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Project Flux Podcast05:00 The Future of AI Models and User Experience14:02 Advancements in Robotics and Their Impact19:42 Ethics and the Future of Physical AI24:17 Conclusion and Future InsightsSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Feb 28, 2025 • 32min
AI & BIM: The Data-Driven Future of Construction with Cristina Sánchez Jiménez
Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, host James Garner speaks with Cristina Sanchez- Jimenez, a BIM manager and digital engineer at LendLease. They discuss Christina's transition from traditional architecture to a data-driven approach in construction, the insights gained from her data apprenticeship, and her experiments with AI in the industry. The conversation also touches on the importance of quality data, the impact of AI on BIM adoption, and the challenges of technology versus people change in construction. Cristina shares her thoughts on the future of architecture with AI, influential media that shaped her career, and advice for young professionals entering the field.TakeawaysCristina transitioned from architecture to data-driven construction.Data apprenticeship opened her eyes to the importance of data.AI can enhance the work of architects rather than replace them.Quality data is crucial for effective AI applications.Technology adoption requires both top-down and bottom-up support.Human interaction with AI is essential for successful implementation.Innovations in operations can change how information is used post-construction.Staying updated is vital for career growth in a changing industry.Education systems need to adapt to prepare students for future challenges.Imposing personal constraints can lead to greater freedom and creativity.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Cristina Sanchez and her Journey03:49 The Impact of Data Apprenticeship on Construction06:42 Experimenting with AI in Construction09:32 The Future of BIM and AI Integration12:11 Cultural Change in Technology Adoption14:59 The Role of AI in Architecture17:54 Innovations in Operations and Maintenance20:42 The Balance Between AI and Human Creativity23:20 Advice for Future Generations26:09 The Evolution of Education in a Changing WorldCristina's Linked InSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Feb 26, 2025 • 21min
The Weekly Pulse - Quantum Computing Breakthroughs: A New Era of Technology
Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, hosts James Garner and Yoshi Soornack discuss significant changes to the podcast format, focusing on the integration of AI and robotics, breakthroughs in quantum computing, and the implications of Elon Musk's Grok AI model. They explore how these advancements are shaping the future of technology and project delivery, emphasizing the importance of feedback from listeners.TakeawaysThe podcast format is changing to enhance listener experience.Robotics and AI are increasingly intertwined in project delivery.Figure's humanoid robots demonstrate advanced learning capabilities.Quantum computing breakthroughs could revolutionize technology timelines.Elon Musk's Grok AI model shows promise in coding and gaming.AI tools are making app development accessible to everyone.The competition among AI models is driving innovation.Grok's integration with X allows for real-time information retrieval.AI is evolving to learn from experiences, not just tasks.The future of project delivery will be heavily influenced by AI advancements.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Project Flux Podcast Format Changes02:04 Weekly Pulse: Overview of Current AI Developments02:53 Advancements in Robotics: Figure's Humanoid Robots08:50 Microsoft's Quantum Computing Breakthroughs13:22 Elon Musk's GROK3: A New AI Model19:15 The Future of AI in Project Delivery21:01 Unleash the Code Intro.wavSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Feb 20, 2025 • 1h 11min
AI, Tough Decisions & The Future of Work—With Nicola Benjamin
Send us a textSummaryIn this engaging conversation, James Garner, Yoshi Soornack, and Nicola Benjamin explore the evolving landscape of project management, particularly in relation to AI. They discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the need for a community in project management. The conversation also delves into the implications of AI on project management skills, the significance of diverse perspectives, and the recent AI playbook from the UK government. Throughout the discussion, Nicola shares her personal journey and insights, emphasising the importance of adaptability and continuous learning in a rapidly changing industry.TakeawaysThe transition from project management to entrepreneurship involves tough decisions.AI is reshaping the role of project managers, enhancing efficiency and decision-making.Emotional intelligence remains a critical skill that AI cannot replicate.Community and collaboration are essential for project managers to thrive.AI inclusivity empowers individuals and democratizes access to technology.Understanding AI's limitations is crucial for responsible use in project management.Diverse perspectives enhance problem-solving and innovation in project management.The UK government's AI playbook emphasises ethical and responsible AI use.Project managers must harmonise information from various sources to stay informed.Continuous learning and adaptability are key to success in the evolving project management landscape.Podcast Chapters & Timestamps00:49 - Opening the Episode“James & Yoshi Discuss This Week’s Biggest AI & Project News”02:21 - The AI Summit & The Future of Regulation “Europe vs America: The AI Power Struggle Unfolding”05:43 - France’s AI Leap & The Role of Regulations “Mistral, Macron & the UK’s AI Sovereignty Gamble”09:18 - AI Ethics vs Innovation: The Global Debate “Are We Holding AI Back or Keeping It Safe?”12:47 - The Impact of AI on Project Delivery “Will AI Replace Project Managers – or Make Them Stronger?”17:00 - GPT-4.5 & The Road to GPT-5 “The Last ‘Non-Reasoning’ AI Model Before the Big Leap”20:56 - Perplexity’s AI Breakthrough & Deep Research “Is This the Free Alternative to OpenAI’s $200 AI Model?”27:58 - The UK’s AI Playbook: A Game-Changer or Too Late?“What the Government’s New AI Strategy Means for You”31:51 - Introducing Nicola Benjamin – Founder of PM Global“From Project Manager to Industry Leader”35:04 - The Defining Moment: Why Nicola Left Corporate Life “One Conversation Changed Everything”40:49 - AI & Project Management: The Future of Work “Will AI Take Your Job – Or Make You a Better PM?”48:08 - The 13-Year-Old Who Could Disrupt Big Consultancies “How AI is Leveling the Playing Field”50:26 - The AI Revolution & Democratization of Knowledge Support the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 13min
'It’s the People, Stupid’ – Dr Ronald Dyer on Why AI Alone Can’t Fix Projects
Send us a textSummaryIn this conversation, Ronald Dyer shares his journey from a tech enthusiast to a prominent figure in academia, discussing the evolution of technology, AI, and its implications for project management and society. He emphasises the importance of critical thinking, the cultural shifts needed in project management, and the potential of AI in various sectors, including healthcare and transportation. Dyer also highlights the emotional impact of AI tools on professionals and the need for adaptation in a rapidly changing landscape.TakeawaysRonald's journey in tech began in his teenage years.He transitioned from retail to Wall Street, emphasising luck and opportunity.The importance of technology in education is paramount.AI is evolving, but the fundamental need for critical thinking remains.Cultural shifts are necessary for project management to adapt to AI.AI's impact on society is profound, especially in healthcare and transport.Humans must remain integral in decision-making processes involving AI.The emotional impact of AI tools can alleviate stress for professionals.Automation will redefine roles in project management.The future of work may lead to a dystopian divide between the skilled and unskilled.Chapters00:00 The Weekly Pulse21:11 Ronald Dyer's Multifaceted Career Journey26:20 The Evolution of Data Analytics and AI30:37 Lessons from Finance to Academia34:46 The Role of AI in Project Management41:01 The Future of Project Management and AI Integration49:02 The Impact of AI on Project Management52:45 Transforming Healthcare with AI56:24 The Importance of Critical Thinking in AI57:48 The Evolution of Prompting in AI01:00:14 Innovations to Watch: AI in Healthcare and Self-Driving Cars01:06:34 The Future of Work and Universal Basic IncomeSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 5min
Project Managers, Meet Your New AI Co-Pilot
Send us a textIn this conversation, James and Yoshi are joined by Dale Foong of Movar and the host of Project Chatter podcast - they discuss the significant shifts driven by AI in project management, the complexities of agentic workflows, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI safety. They explore generational shifts in technology adoption, the importance of networking and collaboration, and the role of AI in enhancing project delivery. The discussion also touches on the implications of deep research in AI and its potential impact on society, concluding with thoughts on the future of AI and recommendations for professionals in the field.TakeawaysAI is transforming project management significantly.Agentic workflows introduce complexity but also opportunities.AI safety and ethics are crucial in AI development.Generational shifts affect how technology is adopted.Networking and collaboration are essential in the AI era.AI can enhance project delivery and efficiency.Deep research in AI has vast implications for various fields.The future of AI will impact society profoundly.Understanding AI is crucial for career advancement.Innovation is driven by necessity in the tech landscape.Chapters00:00 The Weekly Pulse - All the big news30:44 Introducing Dale Foong of Movar32:37 Generational Shifts and the Adoption of New Technologies35:22 Navigating the Age of AI38:18 Overcoming Anxiety Around AI39:42 The Importance of Communication Skills in Project Management41:17 AI's Impact on Project Management44:56 Navigating AI Anxiety47:32 The Evolution of Networking with AI50:13 AI as a Thought Partner53:48 Real-World Applications of AI in Projects58:35 The Future of AI and Human Interaction01:02:47 Grit and Success in the Age of AI01:04:38 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights01:05:01 Engagement and Community BuildingLinksDales Linked InMovar's websiteProject Chatter podcastSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Jan 30, 2025 • 1h 15min
AI as Your Thought Partner: Transforming Leadership with Geoff Woods
Send us a textIn this conversation, Yoshi and James welcome Geoff Woods, author of The AI Driven Leader and they explore the transformative role of AI in leadership and business strategy. They discuss the evolution of AI models, the importance of harnessing AI as a thought partner, and the impact of AI on traditional industries. The conversation also delves into the future of AI, including AGI, and real-world applications that demonstrate AI's potential to enhance efficiency and decision-making. Geoff emphasises the need for leaders to adapt to these changes and leverage AI to drive growth and innovation.TakeawaysAI is a powerful thought partner for leaders.Asking the right questions is crucial for success.AI can streamline business processes and enhance decision-making.The construction industry is ripe for AI adoption.AGI represents a significant shift in intelligence capabilities.Real-world applications of AI can save time and resources.Building a collective of AI-driven leaders can foster innovation.Leaders must prioritise learning about AI to stay competitive.AI can help identify non-obvious insights in business data.A growth mindset is essential for embracing AI technology.Chapters00:00 The Weekly Pulse - News of the week31:46 Geoff Woods - Best Selling Author34:43 The Role of AI as a Thought Partner37:24 Overcoming Resistance to AI in Traditional Industries40:13 Real-World Applications of AI in Business42:54 Prompt Engineering for Strategic Thinking45:40 Transforming Mindsets for AI Adoption52:27 Transforming Industries with AI Mindset54:04 Prioritizing Tasks for Maximum Impact55:51 The Role of Leadership in AI Adoption57:27 AI as a Thought Partner59:18 Building Your Own AI Advisory Board01:00:51 AI's Reasoning and Emotional Resonance01:03:09 Simulating Board Dynamics with AI01:05:29 Ruthless Prioritization for Success01:07:39 Creating a Collective of AI-Driven Leaders01:09:44 Influential Books and Personal Growth01:12:04 Taking Action: The Sticky Note StrategyLinksGeoff's Linked InAI Leadership websiteGet the AI Driven Leader BookSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site

Jan 23, 2025 • 1h
Revolutionising Construction with AI for Modern Projects - Alastair Blenkin - CEO of ProcurePro
Send us a textSummaryIn this episode, Alastair Blenkin discusses the transformative role of AI in the construction industry, particularly through his product, Procure Pro. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities presented by technology adoption in construction, the importance of understanding human cognition in relation to AI, and the future implications of AI in procurement and project management. Alastair shares insights on product development, market fit, and the necessity for entrepreneurs to focus on selling their ideas before building them. The episode concludes with recommendations for resources that can aid in entrepreneurial endeavors.TakeawaysAI is revolutionising procurement in the construction industry.Procure Pro aims to save users significant time and resources.The construction industry is gradually becoming more tech-savvy.Understanding human cognition is crucial when integrating AI.Adoption of technology can be facilitated by reducing friction.The future of AI includes embodied cognition and enhanced interaction.Entrepreneurs should focus on selling ideas before building products.The Lean Startup methodology is essential for rapid iteration.Data-driven decision-making is key in construction management.Collaboration and communication are vital for successful technology adoption.Chapters00:00 The Weekly Pulse27:59 Transition from Law to Technology and Entrepreneurship30:52 The Mission of Procure Pro: Saving Construction Admin Hours33:41 The Role of AI in Construction36:40 Revolutionizing Workflows with AI39:07 The Future of Software and Personalization42:43 Creating Space for Innovation44:19 Integrating Technology in Procurement45:58 Overcoming Resistance to Change47:40 Harnessing Data for Better Decision Making49:54 Building on Familiarity with Excel50:47 Ensuring Product-Market Fit53:12 Empowering Teams to Experiment55:43 Influential Figures in Tech56:54 Recommended Resources for Growth01:00:00 Unleash the Code Intro.wavProcure Pro WebsiteAlastair Blenkin's Linked InSupport the showSubscribe to the Project Flux Newsletter! All our podcasts commentate on the weeks hottest news brought to you by the Project Flux Newsletter! Get a step ahead on the world of AI and tech, subscribe and get the weekly newsletter to your inbox every Monday! Sign Up to Newsletter Project Data Analytics Taskforce site