

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.Project Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.
Episodes
Mentioned books

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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

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 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

Jan 16, 2025 • 32min
AI Power Shift: Can the UK Lead the Next Innovation Wave?
Send us a textSummaryIn this episode of Project Flux, the hosts discuss significant developments in AI, including the UK government's AI action plan, highlights from the CES show, and insights from the World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs report. They explore the implications of these advancements for the economy, public services, and the future of work, emphasising the need for upskilling and the importance of data privacy.TakeawaysThe UK government has accepted 50 recommendations to enhance AI capabilities.AI growth zones are being established to foster innovation and job creation.The CES show showcased advancements in AI technology, including Nvidia's powerful new tools.AI can improve public sector efficiency and address common public grievances like road maintenance.Data ownership and privacy are critical concerns in the AI landscape.The Future of Jobs report highlights the need for upskilling in response to AI advancements.AI technology can have both positive and negative implications for society.The UK aims to position itself as a leader in AI development and innovation.Collaboration between public and private sectors is essential for successful AI implementation.The conversation emphasises the importance of understanding the evolving job landscape due to AI.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview of AI News03:03 UK Government's AI Action Plan18:48 Highlights from CES Show 202327:38 World Economic Forum's Future of Jobs Report32:09 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

Jan 9, 2025 • 36min
AI Showdown: Will China or the US Dominate the Future of Artificial Intelligence?
Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, hosts James Garner and Yoshi Soornack and guest Dave Officer discuss the current landscape of AI, focusing on the competition between the US and China, the implications of safety and ethical considerations in AI development, and the recent controversy surrounding OpenAI's privacy promises. They explore the advancements in AI technology, the financial investments driving the industry, and the potential risks associated with AI models, particularly in the context of international competition and regulatory frameworks. In this conversation, they delve into the complexities of data management, user experience, and the implications of AI on identity and creativity. They discuss the challenges of distinguishing between human and AI interactions, the potential rise of micro companies utilising AI, and the importance of creativity in leveraging AI tools effectively. The conversation highlights the ethical considerations surrounding AI and the evolving landscape of technology in business.TakeawaysAI is projected to significantly contribute to global GDP by 2030.The US currently leads in AI investment compared to China.China's DeepSeek model shows competitive performance against Western models.Safety and ethical considerations are crucial in AI development.OpenAI's privacy promises may have been more of a PR strategy than a genuine commitment.The competition between the US and China in AI is intensifying.Public perception and trust in AI models are influenced by safety concerns.The financial commitment to AI development is critical for future advancements.Legal implications regarding data usage in AI are emerging as a significant issue. Data management policies often fall short in protecting user data.AI's ability to regenerate content raises concerns about authenticity.The distinction between human and AI interactions is becoming blurred.Micro companies may leverage AI to reduce operational costs.Creativity is essential for effectively using AI tools.The rise of digital twins poses identity challenges for individuals.Legislation around data scraping is still evolving.AI tools can democratise entrepreneurship by lowering barriers.Understanding AI's limitations is crucial for effective implementation.The future may see organisations run predominantly by AI agents.Chapters00:00 Welcome Back and New Beginnings11:12 Safety and Ethical Considerations in AI17:06 Data Management and User Experience Challenges24:23 The Rise of Micro Companies and AI Integration29:50 Navigating AI Tools and CreativitySupport 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.

Jan 2, 2025 • 40min
Flux Forward - Project Flux Predicts the AI Innovations of 2025
Send us a textIn this episode of the Project Flux podcast, we discuss our predictions for AI in 2025. We explore the rise of large AI models, the shift towards smaller specialised models, and the emergence of agentic workflows. The conversation also covers advancements in memory and attention, the future of robotic AI, and the adoption of generative AI in organisations. Additionally, we delve into AI's impact on wealth management, healthcare innovations, spatial computing, the importance of data centres, and the competitive landscape between the US and China in AI development. The episode concludes with a discussion on AI safety levels and the role of AI in retail personalisation.Takeaways2025 is expected to be a significant year for AI advancements.Larger AI models will continue to evolve, but data scarcity poses challenges.Smaller, specialised AI models will provide better ROI for businesses.Agentic workflows will become more mainstream, allowing for more autonomous systems.Improvements in memory and attention will enhance AI's ability to understand users.Robotic AI will start to bridge the gap between humans and machines in various sectors.Generative AI adoption is still a work in progress, with companies learning to integrate it effectively.AI will hyper-personalize insights in wealth management, impacting financial decision-making.Healthcare will see innovations in treating diseases, aided by AI technologies.Spatial computing will experiment with AI, particularly in healthcare and surgery.Chapters00:00 New Year, New Predictions for AI03:10 The Rise of Large AI Models05:48 The Shift to Smaller, Efficient Models08:39 Agentic Workflows and Multimodal Architectures11:31 Enhancements in Memory and Attention14:26 The Emergence of Robotic AI17:23 Generative AI's Impact on Business Adoption18:53 AI Deployment and Wealth Management22:10 Healthcare Innovations and AI24:56 Spatial Computing in Medicine27:03 Data Centers and AI Infrastructure28:48 Mergers and Acquisitions in AI30:01 AI and Cryptocurrency Convergence31:41 US-China AI Supremacy Race34:43 AI Safety Levels and Ethical Considerations37:21 AI in Retail and Personalization39:18 Introduction and Sponsorship Highlights39:41 Engagement and Community BuildingSupport 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 Flux is independently owned, funded, and operated by its founder. Any external references or features are for community benefit only and do not imply endorsement, control, or ownership.


