

Knowledge Fika
Rebecka Isaksson (Sulava Gulf); Dawn Brushammar (Dawn Brushammar Consulting)
Swedish “fika” is a cherished tradition of enjoying coffee and pastries with friends, family or co-workers, creating a cozy and social atmosphere. It is not just about feeding the body but also our souls and brains, when we take mini-breaks throughout the day, to clear our minds and replenish. In this podcast we will sit down with interesting profiles from the global Knowledge Management community, for casual conversations about relevant KM-topics, over a virtual cup of coffee. And of course there will be a lot of talk about AI and AI-powered Knowledge solutions!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 22, 2025 • 32min
Episode 22: A Caffeine infused chat about KM, AI and the power of visualization - Marko Wathen
Marko Wathen, founder of Aigui and an experienced consultant in project management and AI tools, shares his journey from finance to innovating knowledge visualization. He discusses how visual interfaces can streamline AI interactions, making complex information more digestible. The conversation highlights the evolution of project management, advocating for Kanban's adaptability. Additionally, Marko's side project emphasizes sustainable coffee solutions, reflecting his passion for Nordic coffee culture. It's a mix of innovation, coffee enthusiasm, and insightful ideas!

Jul 6, 2025 • 33min
Episode 21: AI with Empathy - Personal KM and Productivity Reimagined, with Simon Doy
In this engaging discussion, Simon Doy, Chief Technology Officer at iThink 365 and a Microsoft MVP, shares his journey in the Microsoft ecosystem. He dives into how Microsoft 365 Copilot redefines productivity and personal knowledge management. The conversation explores the empathetic design of modern AI agents and their role in enhancing communication and efficiency. Simon also introduces SmartFlow, an innovative tool for improving meeting information management, all while sprinkling in light-hearted anecdotes about coffee preferences and cultural nuances in healthcare.

Jun 15, 2025 • 35min
Episode 20: Conversations, Curiosity, and KM Maturity - Cindy Hubert (APQC)
Cindy Hubert, a Knowledge Management Fellow at APQC with nearly 30 years of experience, discusses her journey in transforming the knowledge management landscape. She emphasizes the vital role of human factors and ongoing learning over mere technology. The conversation dives into the creation of maturity models and the significance of conversations in sharing tacit knowledge. Cindy also reflects on the Swedish tradition of 'Fika' and how casual connections boost collaboration, especially for younger employees facing modern workplace challenges.

Jun 1, 2025 • 29min
Episode 19: The KM Landscape in 2025 - Andrew Herd & Kristina Mirchuk
Join Andrew Herd, a senior knowledge management expert with 25 years in the space sector and Kristina Mirchuk, founder of GEIST Consultancy, as they explore the KM Landscape 2025 project. They discuss the significance of co-creation and inclusion in knowledge management. Key topics include the evolution of personal and organizational knowledge management, the importance of diverse voices, and bridging international perspectives. Plus, they delve into the shift from static to dynamic knowledge mobilization, emphasizing active community engagement.

May 18, 2025 • 27min
Episode 18 - Unlocking the Power of SharePoint Embedded - Steve Pucelik
Steve Pucelik, Senior Product Manager at Microsoft, shares his extensive knowledge of SharePoint Embedded, a game-changer in document management. He discusses how this platform enhances collaboration with seamless co-authoring and secure storage. Challenges faced by customer service teams are addressed, emphasizing improved efficiency through integrated support systems. Steve also highlights the upcoming SharePoint Embedded roadshow featuring hands-on labs and expert talks. Plus, he delves into the Swedish tradition of Fika, illustrating how breaks can boost innovation and problem-solving.

May 4, 2025 • 33min
Episode 17: Human Connections & the Power of Random Conversations - Jonathan Gordon-Till
Join Jonathan Gordon-Till, a seasoned knowledge management expert and Community of Practice Leader at Mondelez, as he tackles the crucial balance between technology and human connection. He discusses the evolution of knowledge sharing in organizations, emphasizing the power of informal conversations and community bonds. Jonathan reveals the success of his 'Totally Random' program, demonstrating how random coffee chats enhance collaboration and innovation. He also reflects on the impact of AI in knowledge management, advocating for a human-centered approach for better outcomes.

7 snips
Apr 5, 2025 • 26min
Episode 16: Social Learning and KM in Professional Services - Sven Rinke
Sven Rinke, a Senior Director at SimCorp with a PhD in Theoretical Physics, discusses transforming knowledge management in professional services. He shares his journey from East Germany to fintech, emphasizing the importance of creating a culture of knowledge sharing. Sven highlights the challenges of aligning sales promises with product realities and the role of Knowledge Flows in addressing these gaps. The conversation also delves into the evolving impact of AI in enhancing learning and validation processes, and the power of informal connections in driving innovation.

8 snips
Mar 16, 2025 • 27min
Episode 15: The KM Peer Mentoring program by SIKM & KM4Dev - Ninez Piezas-Jerbi
Ninez Piezas-Jerbi, a seasoned knowledge management professional and former senior statistician at the WTO, dives into the transformative impact of mentorship in knowledge management. She shares insights on building authentic relationships between mentors and mentees, highlighting the chemistry that fuels these connections. Ninez also compares knowledge management practices between NGOs and the private sector, revealing unexpected lessons and the importance of empathy. Plus, enjoy a lighthearted conversation about the Swedish Fika tradition and its role in workplace dynamics!

Mar 2, 2025 • 31min
Episode 14: Intelligent KM and putting Knowledge into context - Katya Linossi & Stephen Bedford
Katya Linossi, co-founder and CEO of ClearPeople, brings 25 years of IT experience to the table, alongside Stephen Bedford, the Product Director driving the Atlas knowledge platform. They discuss the critical need for contextualizing knowledge, especially with the rise of AI services. Katya shares her inspiration behind ClearPeople and the development of Atlas, while Stephen emphasizes the value of user experience and governance in knowledge management. They also touch on the human element in AI adoption and the importance of strategic breaks for productivity.

Feb 16, 2025 • 29min
Episode 13: The Future of Digital Productivity and Collaboration - Andrew Pope
In this episode of Knowledge Fika, we are joined by Andrew Pope who has spent his career working on digital productivity and collaboration. We discuss Knowledge Management, collaboration, AI readiness and the challenges and opportunities of hybrid work. We also talk a bit about digital detoxing and of course, our favorite fika. Andrew describes how the goal of his work is to make work (and life) easier and more engaging through technology and shares some recent research and findings that were recently published in a white paper, which is linked below. About Andrew Pope: Andrew looks at workplace technology through the eyes of the workforce, as owner of Designing Collaboration and co-founder of Designing AI Heroes. He helps his clients to develop ways of work that ensure workplace tools work for them: solving their problems, bringing people together and adopting more effective and productive practices, such as improving meetings, leveraging AI and aligning distributed teams. Andrew has advised and coached UK and Australian government departments as well as large multinationals on how to better leverage tools like Microsoft 365 and to develop today’s digital leaders, although he likes to balance his time with enjoying coffee, going trail running and doing silly stuff with the kids (though not at all the same time). Link to the white paper on hybrid work mentioned in the episode: https://www.designingcollab.com/emp-experience