Geeks, Geezers, and Googlization Show cover image

Geeks, Geezers, and Googlization Show

Latest episodes

undefined
Jun 24, 2024 • 51min

Main Street vs. Wall Street: Inflation Woes, Tech Giants, and Election Buzz

AI dominance, energy trade-offs, and election jitters. Those were the topics this month’s esteemed Wall St panel explored on At the Corner of Main St. and Wall St. The juxtaposition of Main Street and Wall Street may seem worlds apart, yet they are becoming increasingly intertwined. Join us as we unpack the implications of the rising cost of living, the potential shift in political administration, and the transformative power of AI in our economy. Whether you’re an investor, a tech enthusiast, or simply someone curious about future trends, this episode has something for you. Here are nine illuminating takeaways about the economy, markets, AI, and the upcoming 2024 election. 1. **Feeling the Squeeze:** Inflation's tightening grip isn’t just a headline—whether it's grocery bills, car insurance, or trash pick-up costs, everyone's wallet is taking a hit, especially those in the middle and lower-income brackets. Is this what might determine who resides in the White House for the next 4 years? 2. **Stocks vs. Wallets:** You might hear the stock market's roaring, but don't be fooled; it doesn’t always reflect Main Street’s struggle with daily expenses. It’s like living in two different economies! 3. **Election Anxiety:** With the 2024 election heating up, there's cautious optimism. According to guest Mat Van Alstyne, the market is attempting to price in a potential Trump win, but the mix of political chaos and proposed tax changes could make for a wild ride. 4. **AI and Power Play:** NVIDIA's tech lead shows that dominating the AI scene isn't just about cool gadgets—it's fueling a surge in data demand, transforming power usage, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. 5. **Green Energy's Reality Check:** While green energy is the future, current tech like wind and solar need more energy to produce than they give back over their lifetimes. It's an efficiency puzzle that still needs solving. 7. **Data Center Giants:** Fun fact: The biggest data center, only second to the world’s largest, is right here in the US and it's part of our growing need for data—think AI, electric vehicles, and cryptocurrency. 8. **AI Bubble Fears:** The panel's mixed takes on the AI market bubble, especially with NVIDIA, reveal a cautious yet curious approach as tech valuation and future earnings raise eyebrows. 9. **Living at the Intersection:** The convergence of economy, politics, and technology demands we stay adaptive. It’s crucial to keep learning and navigating the uncharted waters without getting bogged down by the past. About this month's guests: Mat Van Alstyne: Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Odeon Capital Group, a leading full service boutique broker dealer to institutional clients. Many of you know Mat from his commentary and outlook on the highly rated Odeon Capital Conversations Podcast, which will return soon for another season.  John Aidan Byrne: Veteran Wall Street business journalist, editor, filmmaker, and successful podcast host of Odeon Capital Conversations and Dig Life Deep! John/s newest ventures are two movie projects, one on the legendary life of a Wall Street CEO and scholar and the other on Norman Rockwell.   Special Guest: Jim Toes is President and CEO of the Security Traders Association (STA), a grassroots trade organization that serves individuals employed in the financial services industry. He also was a candidate in New York’s third Congressional district to replace ousted Rep. George Santos.  
undefined
Jun 20, 2024 • 49min

Everywhere Work: Threading the IT Needle with Security and Flexibility

Flexibility in the workplace is a hot topic, but 2024 Everywhere Work reports show a stark reality: only 25% of workers feel their work environment is highly flexible. We need to bridge this gap for a truly adaptable workforce. In this episode host Ira S Wolfe and Ivanti’s CMO Melissa Puls peel back the layers of IT and security, and trust us, it’s more challenging than you’d ever expect. We tackle the crippling silo effect, dig into the exponential growth of security vulnerabilities, and explore the intricate dance between CIOs, CISOs, and HR. It can feel like you’re trying to thread a needle with one hand tied behind your back.  Here are seven insightful nuggets about IT, security, workplace flexibility, and employee experience in the future of work: 1. When IT and security team up, magic happens. Collaboration is key. Silos? Not so much. Keeping data and systems separate hampers both productivity and security. 2. Discovering and securing every connected device is like looking for a needle in a haystack. But boy, is it necessary! CIOs and CSOs need to collaborate, not compete. 3. Think of workplace security like a well-locked door; it must be secure but easy to use. Balancing strict security measures with practicality can save your company from headaches. 4. Employee experience isn’t just a fluffy HR term. It translates directly to customer experience, and ultimately, your company’s success. And surprise, surprise: IT and security have a huge impact on it. 5. Do you think digital employee experience doesn’t matter? Many employees would rather leave a company with a lousy digital setup than stay—even if they love everything else. 6. Flexibility in the workplace is still a work in progress. Only 25% of workers feel their environment is highly flexible. 7. The future of work is here and now, and it’s all about flexibility, security, and connection. This episode drives home the point that thriving in today’s fast-paced world means embracing flexibility, working smarter, and fostering strong connections and cultures within our workplaces. So, stay agile, stay secure, and stay connected! Plus: The top 5 Things every small and medium business manager should know: The Future of Work is here now . Everywhere Work is here to stay Flexibility is key for the Employee Experience and Engagement. Everywhere work is about flexibility, not the place. Security is critical to make sure employees and customers are safe. Education and training is essential. Connection and Culture are more challenging in a hybrid environment but not impossible Employee Experience translates to Customer Experience --  and it is all about Customers and the Customer Journey. About Melissa Puls Melissa is Ivanti’s Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Senior Vice President Customer Success and responsible for all aspects of the Ivanti customer journey, from initial awareness to purchase, adoption, expansion and renewal – ensuring organizations maximize the value of Ivanti’s solutions for greater outcomes. Melissa is passionate about all phases of the customer experience and brings decades of experience to Ivanti with a strong track record of fueling growth through a customer-centric approach and integrated marketing strategies for acquired companies. She was most recently senior vice president and CMO at Avid. Prior to this role, Melissa also held CMO and marketing leadership positions with Optanix, Progress, Iron Mountain and Infor. Resources: Connect with Melissa Puls here. Visit Ivanti website and watch keynotes from ISS2024. Download 2024 Everywhere Work report here.  
undefined
Jun 11, 2024 • 19min

Unleashing Your Potential: The How and Why of Personal Well-Being

The Whole You: Work, Home Life host Joe Serio and Senior Contributor, Forbes, and Behavioral Scientist Tanya Tarr continue their dynamic conversation about the how and why of personal well-being.  Together they delve into the intriguing concept of a "House of Well-Being" and a "Workplace of Well-Being." This transformative discussion will leave you inspired to redesign your life for success.   Here are just a few of the mind-opening lessons learned that can truly reshape the way we approach our health and work environment. 1. The concept of your "house of well-being" encourages exploring the different rooms of physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health for a well-rounded life journey. 2. Simplify your well-being check-ins by focusing on 3-4 key areas instead of overwhelming yourself with endless objectives – it's all about keeping it nimble. 3. Pay attention to the rooms you neglect in your well-being house; they often hold the keys to unlocking your true balance. 4. Community connections are essential for emotional and cultural health - find your 'church energy' in unexpected places like kickboxing clubs or adult kickball leagues. 5. By breaking down your environments into different spaces, such as bedroom, office, or car environments, you can effectively pinpoint areas that need immediate attention and those that can wait. 6. The power of intentional transitions lies in helping your nervous system and overall well-being find a sense of closure and rejuvenation. 7. Approach your workplace of well-being with the same mindfulness as your house of well-being; navigating office dynamics, policies, and relationships play a vital role in your overall wellness journey. Why Listen:  If you're feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, seeking ways to enhance your overall well-being, or looking to foster a healthier work environment, this episode is a must-listen. Joe and Tanya's practical advice, deep insights, and relatable anecdotes will inspire you to make small, impactful changes that lead to significant transformations in your physical, mental, emotional, and cultural health. Tune in for actionable strategies, expert tips, and a fresh perspective on living your best life, both at home and in the workplace.
undefined
Jun 5, 2024 • 50min

Is It Time to Change Your Tune? Accountability Lessons from the Music Industry's Decline

Discover the importance of accountability and adaptability in the music industry and beyond. Learn Jeff Matlow's secrets of accountability, the power of effective communication, and embracing conflict for growth. Explore how adaptability and clear communication are key in today's fast-paced world for personal and professional success.
undefined
Jun 4, 2024 • 53min

Economic Tug-of-War: Inflation, Debt, and the U.S. Dollar

This premiere episode of “At the Corner of Main St. & Wall St. episode is a gripping reminder that when it comes to the economy, inflation, personal finances, and politics, we are in virgin territory. Staying informed and flexible is key and hosts Ira S Wolfe, Mat Van Alstyne, and John Aidan Byrne share a few game-changing insights on where we may be headed next. They are joined by this month’s special guest Nathan Lewis, co-author of “Inflation.” Here are a few must-know takeaways about our economy, inflation, debt, and where we might be headed next: 1. **The Inflation Impact**: Inflation is hitting hard, and Americans are feeling it. Everything from your groceries to your gas tank is affected, and it’s a top concern for everyone from Main Street to Wall Street. 2. **Debt Overload**: The American consumer is swimming in over $1 trillion of credit card debt—yikes! Combine that with the housing gridlock and border crisis, and you get a potent financial cocktail that's hard to swallow. 3. **Deficits Without Fixes**: Nathan Lewis points out that governments, including ours, are running bigger deficits but fixing zilch. It’s like putting more holes in a sinking ship and wondering why we’re taking on water. 4. **Treasury Troubles**: Rising treasury yields could spell trouble. There’s chatter about fiscal dominance and even the looming specter of the US Treasury defaulting if no one's buying those bonds.  5. **Inflation and Politics**: Inflation is shaping up to be a big player in the next election cycle. Whether it’s Trump’s tariffs or Biden’s relief acts, these policies are influencing everything from the value of the dollar to the cost of living. 6. **Gold as a Safety Net?**: With currency values wobbling, some experts are looking back at gold. Remember, it’s been a fallback since ancient civilizations and could be the safe harbor we need amid the storm. 7. **Monetary Mayhem**: Leaving the gold standard in 1971 might’ve been the root of our currency’s instability. It’s like pulling the rug out from under the dollar, as Nathan Lewis reminds us. 8. **International Shifts**: The global scene is shifting with countries like China and Russia questioning the US dollar’s dominance.  9. **The Future's Uncertain**: High levels of unpredictability surround what the Fed and central banks will do next. Navigating this complex maze requires keen insight and adaptability. Mat Van Alstyne: Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Odeon Capital Group, brings insights from the heart of Wall Street. Odeon Capital Group is a leading full service boutique broker dealer to institutional clients.Many of you know Mat from his commentary and outlook on the highly rated Odeon Capital Conversations Podcast, the number one podcast on Capital Markets in the US and top ranked across the globe. Odeon Capital Conversations will return soon for another season.  John Aidan Byrne: Veteran Wall Street business journalist, editor, filmmaker, and successful podcast host of Odeon Capital Conversations and Dig Life Deep! I want to wish Good luck to John on his two movie projects, one on the legendary life of a Wall Street CEO and scholar and the other on Norman Rockwell.  Hopefully we’ll be walking the red carpet soon at their premiere! Special Guest: Nathan Lewis: Renowned monetary policy and economic history expert, Discovery Institute Fellow, co-author of The Magic Formula: The Timeless Secret to Economic Health and Prosperity; and Inflation: What It Is, Why It's Bad, and How to Fix It, and author of several other highly-acclaimed economic tomes. You can order “Inflation” here. More about Nathan Lewis. ***This episode was sponsored by Security Traders Association (STA).  STA is a grassroots organization with 20 Affiliates across the U.S. and Canada, representing financial services professionals.  STA educates its members on market structure issues and advocates for their interests with legislators and regulators, promoting goodwill and integrity with the principle "my word is my bond." You can join STA at their flagship event: The 91st Annual Market Structure Conference . This year's theme is "Shifting the Landscape," and is scheduled for September 18-20 at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes Orlando. You can learn more about STA and the conference at the STA website:  www.securitytraders.org  
undefined
May 31, 2024 • 47min

Jobs, Healthcare, Education and Machines: Welcome to AI's World

While only 7 percent of the world’s population is using AI, technologist Doug Hohulin believes we’re living in the “Roaring 20s of Technology.” With over 500 percent growth of smartphone users in just 11 years and 1 Billion AI users predicted by the end of 2024, Doug reveals in this episode what innovation and our future look like in the next 3 to 5 years … and beyond. Doug is the co-author of the new book, Tech Powered Healing: Future of Medicine in the Age of AI. Here are just a few of the compelling and exciting takeaways: **Job Evolution, Not Elimination**: It’s a myth that AI will take away jobs. But it is 100% true that AI is likely to change the nature of work rather than eliminate jobs. It will create new roles while automating what Doug calls the 4 Ds: Dirty, Dangerous, Difficult, and Dirty, allowing humans to focus on tasks that require creativity and emotional intelligence. **AI's Role in Healthcare**: Imagine using AI for good and saving 10,000 lives a year in the U.S. alone. AI holds transformative potential in healthcare, particularly in curing diseases, creating personalized drugs and dosages, and reducing medical errors. However medical professionals must remain in control to ensure these tools are used to improve patient outcomes and minimize harm. **The Life-Saving Potential of Safe-Driving Technology**: Implementing AI and advanced technologies such as blind spot monitoring, emergency braking systems, and lane-keeping technology in vehicles has the potential to save tens of thousands of lives annually by reducing traffic accidents. **Educational Transformation **: AI tools can amplify learning outcomes and the importance of teaching both students and educators to use these technologies effectively. **AI and Mental Well-being**: While AI can significantly boost productivity, it's also important to consider its impact on mental well-being. Proper education and training can ensure a balanced and healthy integration of AI technologies in everyday life. **Future of AI and Society**: As AI grows, its users are predicted to reach billions by 2029, marking a significant societal shift analogous to the Industrial Revolution. Ensuring responsible and widespread education on AI will be crucial for navigating this transformative period effectively. Who is Doug Hohulin? Doug Hohulin has a treasure trove of experience, having spent 33 years at Nokia/Motorola in strategy, business development, account management, and engineering roles. Now, as an AI Technology Advisor for Next CoLabs and AI & Partners, and a leader in VRARA and KC Digital Drive, he’s all about making AI responsible and safe. His passion? Using AI to create a safer healthcare system, reduce the 3 million deaths a year from medical errors, and improve patient outcomes. He’s a co-author of the new book Tech Power Healing - The Future of Medicine in the AI Age. Connect with Doug Hohulin: Click Here. Purchase "Tech Powered Healing: Future of Medicine in the Age of AI" Click Here. Read "The 21st Century – The Century of the Billion & Billions" Click Here.  
undefined
May 25, 2024 • 55min

Unlock The Innovating Engine: How Anyone Can Innovate Like Steve Jobs

Ever feel like innovation is a superpower reserved for legends like Steve Jobs? Think again! Join the dynamic innovating duo, Ira S Wolfe and Ben M Bensaou, as they shatter this myth and reveal the secrets to building your innovating engine. This episode of the Geeks Geezers Googlization podcast is packed with actionable insights to transform anyone into a relentless innovator. Prepare to challenge your perceptions and redefine what it means to be an innovator with 10 game-changing insights such as Innovation for All,  Embrace "Innovating" over "Innovation", Empower Middle Managers, Customer Gold and more. Ben shares real-life examples of companies like Starwood and Fiskars, a 375-year-old company, that transformed into innovation powerhouses through structured and continuous innovating efforts. These success stories prove that innovation isn't limited to startups or high-tech companies but is attainable for organizations of all sizes and industries. Ready to Innovate Like Steve Jobs? Tune in to the Geeks Geezers Googlization podcast for more insightful discussions on staying adaptive in the evolving future of work and innovation. More about Ben M. Bensaou: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-m-bensaou/ Website: https://benbensaou.com Thinkers50 Best Management Book of 2022: "Built to Innovate": https://benbensaou.com/book/     
undefined
May 13, 2024 • 49min

The Future of Accounting: Technology and Remote Work Insights with Jody Padar

Did you think accounting was all about crunching numbers and taxes? Think again. "Beyond the Office"  host Bill Keller is joined by Jody Padar, the Radical CPA. Together they unravel the future of accounting in the tech era. This episode is a must-listen for forward-thinking professionals who are ready to step into the next evolution of their industry, revolutionize their practices, and not just keep up but write the next chapter in accounting.  Here are five key takeaways: 1. **Embrace Mistakes**: Learn the importance of making mistakes and the value of learning from errors to fuel your innovation journey. 2. **Automation is Your Friend**: As automation takes over repetitive tasks, CPAs are free to focus more on advisory roles requiring interpretation skills, empathy, and effective communication. Discover how automating mundane tasks can lead to quick gains and free up time for more strategic endeavors. 3. **Master Remote Work**:  Learn how mid to small-sized firms can integrate innovation through existing software solutions, using automation for quick wins, and why aligning technology with strategic business goals is crucial. 4. **Tech & Strategy Alignment**: Hear how aligning your technology with business goals is more crucial than ever. Jody shares how technology companies and fintechs like Pilot, Zeni, and even giants like Amazon are beginning to edge into traditional accounting services. 5. **Evolution of Accounting**: Explore the transition from time-based billing to focusing on delivering measurable results, and how this can significantly impact client satisfaction and firm profitability. Resources: Jody Padar, The Radical CPA, Connect with Jody. Bill Keller, Staffing Global https://staffingdifferent.com Recommended Reading:  Radical Pricing (Just Released—Spring 2024). Click here.
undefined
May 8, 2024 • 59min

Cybersecurity, IT, and HR: Unlikely Allies Empowering Flexible Work

"Flexibility" has become the rallying cry of the Everywhere Work revolution, as highlighted in Ivanti's 2024 Everywhere Work report. On this Geeks, Geezers, and Googlization Show episode, host Ira S. Wolfe chats with guests Holly Novak and Mary Baird to unpack their experiences from the 2024 Ivanti Solutions Summit. Together, they explore the rapidly shifting landscape of Everywhere Work and the technological hurdles it brings. Tune in for a fascinating discussion on viewing cybersecurity through an HR lens as they tackle the intricacies of delivering seamless digital employee experiences, nurturing modern work cultures, managing AI’s growing impact, and safeguarding the irreplaceable power of human connection. ** Key Takeaways:** 1. The concept of "radical flexibility" is becoming a buzzword we can't ignore. 2. Emotional intelligence isn't just a nice-to-have—it's essential. 3. Culture is king, even if your kingdom is virtual. 4. Training for remote and hybrid team management needs a serious upgrade. 5. The urgent need for robust cybersecurity training tailored for a dispersed workforce. **About Holly Novak and Mary Baird Holly Novak serves as the Chief People Officer at Jack Henry &Associates, a prestigious S&P 500 fintech powerhouse boasting a workforce of over 7,000 dedicated professionals. With a career spanning more than two decades in Human Resources, Holly’s extensive expertise encompasses HR Operations, Business Operations, HR Business Partner roles, Recruitment, and HR Information Systems. She is especially renowned for her skills in Coaching, Executive Compensation, People Analytics, and leveraging HR technology to achieve organizational excellence, to mention a few. **Connect with Holly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-novak-sphr-shrm-scp-3262835/ Mary Baird has an equally impressive resume. She is the CEO,  Senior Leadership Development Strategist and Podcaster at The Simplifiers. She helps medium to large corporations who are struggling with high turnover, and low employee engagement, and are navigating an ever-changing work environment that seems everything BUT simple. Her LinkedIn profile says it all: She has a knack for turning complex challenges into simple, actionable solutions.  **Connect with Mary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesimplifiers/ Additional Resources: **Watch the ISS2024 Keynotes: https://tinyurl.com/iss24keynotes **Download 2024 Everywhere Work Report: https://adaptabilitytoolkit.com/2024everywherework **Never Normal News: https://nevernormalnews.com  
undefined
10 snips
May 2, 2024 • 49min

Mind Your Managers: Is Your Workplace Ready for a Mental Health Makeover?

David Wright and Jessy Paull from Headspace, experts in mental health solutions and commercial growth, tackle the pressing issue of workplace mental health. They reveal shocking stats from the 2024 State of the Mind Report, showing that 97% of employees are affected by their managers’ actions. Training gaps for managers are highlighted, and the duo discusses the generational differences in addressing mental health. They also share actionable tips for creating a supportive work environment, emphasizing the urgent need for change in management practices.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode