Microsoft Innovation Podcast

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/633  Imagine a world where technology and martial arts intertwine to create a tapestry of personal and professional success. That's the landscape we're exploring with Charlie Phipps-Bennett, a remarkable tech industry talent from Weymouth, England. Discover how a chance encounter nearly turned perilous and became a pivotal moment in his life, thanks to his training in boxing and Muay Thai. Charlie's story isn't just about physical defense; it's a powerful testament to the life skills martial arts instill, shaping discipline and strengthening character. In an era where self-defense is crucial, Charlie's journey offers valuable lessons and inspiring insights for both adults and children.But the journey doesn't end there. Celebrating Charlie's remarkable achievement of winning the UK Tech Star of the Year award in 2023, we pivot to his groundbreaking community efforts. Despite living miles away in Weymouth, he's at the heart of building the Scottish Power Platform User Group, fostering collaboration and growth for Power Platform professionals in Scotland. Get the inside scoop on camaraderie at the awards, including fun-filled moments with peers like Chris Huntingford. With support from Mark Christie and the Scottish Summit team, Charlie's story is a beacon for aspiring MVPs, showcasing how dedication to community and technology can create ripple effects that transcend borders.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/632 Ever tried juggling three laptops while navigating airport security? Chris did, and it was as chaotic as you'd imagine! Tune in for a chuckle as we recount our technical misadventures at Microsoft Ignite in Chicago, where a Wi-Fi hiccup with Riverside had us scrambling. Plus, get a heartwarming glimpse into family life with an amusing story about Andrew's daughter Alexandra's nursery adventures that will surely bring a smile to your face. Shifting gears, we tackle the serious business of technology's role in political dynamics and cybersecurity. From Facebook and TikTok's influence on elections to parallels with the Cambridge Analytica saga, we're diving into the murky waters of cybercrime. With its sophistication now rivaling the GDP of major economies, cybersecurity complacency isn't an option. We'll explore the pitfalls of the "walled garden" approach and emphasize why resilience plans and the growing trend of white hat hacking and chaos engineering are crucial for safeguarding our digital landscape. The episode also casts a spotlight on data integration challenges within modern organizations and the societal impact of digital phenomena. Using Microsoft's Dataverse and OneLake as examples, we discuss the potential for tech giants to lead the charge in solving these complex issues. From the electrifying atmosphere at Microsoft Ignite to our evolving podcasting journey and plans for an AI-focused show, this episode is a treasure trove of insights and inspiration. Join us for a whirlwind of tech talk, political intrigue, and personal stories that promise to keep you entertained and informed. Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

Andrew Butenko, a seasoned Solution Technical Architect and Microsoft MVP, shares his insights on the transformative power of the Microsoft Power Platform amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He highlights innovations like FPV drones used in warfare and the exceptional talent of Ukrainian developers. The conversation delves into the evolution of Power Platform development, emphasizing low-code solutions and the critical role of professional developers in creating flexible connectors. Andrew urges a focus on user-centered design to mitigate technical debt and enhance application functionality.

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/630 Ever wondered how technology can revolutionize both education and business? Join us as we explore this transformative journey with Rafsan Huseynov, a senior IT program manager and enterprise architect from Washington DC, who has just earned his first MVP award in 2024. Rafsan, a passionate advocate for community empowerment, shares his inspiring story—from his beginnings at the United Nations to his academic pursuits in Italy. We dive into his love for culinary adventures across Europe and discuss how these experiences shape his approach to continuous learning and professional growth.Rafsan guides us through the fascinating world of the Power Platform and its pivotal role in modernizing educational curriculums worldwide. Discover how tools like Power BI and Power Apps are not just streamlining processes but also empowering students from all walks of life, including fields like nursing, to innovate and prepare for the evolving job market. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of transitioning from traditional ERP systems to agile solutions and get Rafsan's insights on balancing technical skills with business acumen. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or an industry professional, this episode offers valuable takeaways on mastering solution architecture and harnessing the potential of AI within the Power Platform.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/629Ever wondered how traditional software management can be transformed by innovative AI solutions? Join us as we navigate the exhilarating Ignite 2024 through the eyes of our field reporter, Chris Huntingford. With over 200 AI sessions and an emphasis on Contact Center advancements, Chris vividly captures the conference's electrifying atmosphere. Meanwhile, back at our studio, we reflect on the sheer joy of merging hands-on collaboration with cutting-edge AI capabilities, highlighting a rewarding return to the essentials like data modelling.The conversation takes a fascinating turn as we dive into the complexities of on-demand licensing for Copilot studio, illuminating the challenges organizations face in financial forecasting. We also take you on a cultural journey through London's vibrant networking scene, where we share anecdotes from our 2017 move to the UK, shedding light on the distinct business drinking culture and the unique expressions that bring a touch of humor to serious business meetings. Our experiences paint a picture of a collaborative environment where professionals from the UK and the US come together to bridge cultural gaps and foster innovation.Finally, we shed light on the rising phenomenon of "shadow AI" in the workplace and the pressing need for robust governance frameworks. Discover the latest developments in Microsoft's GitHub Copilot and the seamless integration between AI Foundry and AI Studio, promising a tailored and advanced experience for developers. As we bring this episode to a close, we reflect on the myriad of technological advancements and cultural insights, encouraging you to engage with the ongoing dialogue and explore the future of software innovation.Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/628  Join us as we sit down with Georgia Tsoraklidou, the dynamic HR Digital Cell Lead at SLB, who has successfully championed the integration of Microsoft's Power Platform. From her multicultural roots in Greece to her adventurous life in Houston, Georgia's stories are both inspiring and relatable. She shares candid insights into her journey—how an unexpected interview question led her to embrace the Power Platform, despite having no prior knowledge. This episode not only highlights her professional achievements but also delves into her passions for language, travel, and savouring the world's diverse cuisines.Our conversation takes you inside SLB's innovative approach to digital transformation, fueled by a network of 'agents' spreading Power Platform expertise company-wide. Discover how the pandemic accelerated SLB's digital efforts and learn about the creative solutions these agents devised—from emergency response apps to automating routine processes. Georgia's experiences underline the importance of curiosity and the willingness to embrace change, ensuring you leave with fresh insights on balancing technical prowess with a lifelong love for learning. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a curious listener, Georgia's journey offers a unique perspective on thriving in a rapidly evolving world. Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/627 Discover the incredible journey of Manonmani VS, a Microsoft MVP who has risen to prominence within the Microsoft Dynamics community. From her beginnings in Coimbatore, India, to her current role as a community leader in Sydney, Manonmani shares her transformative story of breaking into the tech industry despite initial challenges. Her passion for Microsoft Dynamics CRM not only propelled her career but also turned her into a serial community leader, avid event organizer, and influential speaker. Manonmani's reflections on embracing diverse cultures and savouring cuisines add a personal touch to her professional narrative, offering inspiration for aspiring MVPs and tech enthusiasts.Join us as we explore Manonmani's impactful work in aligning CRM systems across multiple regions, showcasing her resilience and strategic acumen. She reveals her commitment to building inclusive tech communities, empowering women in tech, and nurturing IT career transitions through initiatives like IT Transfer Launch. Her transition from an introvert to a key leader in the Asian Microsoft Business Applications User Group demonstrates the power of personal growth and community engagement. This episode is a testament to the strength of active, inclusive tech communities and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in the constantly evolving tech landscape.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  90 Day Mentoring Challenge - https://ako.nz365guy.com/ Support the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/626  Discover how a mathematician from Hyderabad became a leading voice in the tech community. Join us for an episode that chronicles Vibhuti Dadhich's fascinating journey from numbers to code, illuminating her passion for low-code development on the Microsoft Power Platform. With a focus on creating "mega apps" that transform business operations, Vibhuti shares her insights into leveraging these robust solutions for long-term enterprise success. Her personal narrative intertwines with the dynamic growth she has witnessed in Hyderabad, providing a compelling backdrop to her endeavors in technology.In our second segment, we unravel the powerful impact of AI in intelligent document processing, revealing how it's reshaping industries worldwide. Listen as we discuss the surge in demand for AI-driven automation, tackling everything from sales order generation to advanced integrations with tools like Microsoft Teams and SAP databases. As organizations navigate adopting AI, we delve into the complexities of choosing between standard ERP connectors and crafting custom integrations for optimized efficiency. This episode is brimming with actionable insights for anyone looking to harness the potential of AI and the Power Platform in today's digital landscape.Support the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/625What if you could revolutionize your coding process with tools designed by a Microsoft MVP? Join us as we chat with Andrzej Zwierzchowski, a 2023 MVP awardee and development standards lead at TNP, the NAV people. With over twenty years of experience in .NET development, Andrzej has been instrumental in helping developers transition from CAL to AL languages using innovative tools available on the Visual Studio Code Marketplace. He shares his passion for writing clean, efficient code and highlights how these tools, developed since 2017, incorporate wizards and code-cleaning commands to simplify coding tasks.We also explore the vibrant community that thrives around these tools, where feature requests and improvements are actively discussed on GitHub. Andrzej opens up about his journey to becoming an MVP and how it has granted him invaluable insider access to Microsoft. He discusses his role as a development standards lead and involvement in significant projects across the education and production sectors. Wrapping up, we ponder the impact of AI on development work, from enhancing problem-solving to generating code, while acknowledging the challenges posed by current documentation limitations.OTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP  Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/624Balancing work and personal life is no small feat—in fact, it might just be one of the great challenges of our time. Imagine juggling a demanding career, family responsibilities, and personal interests, all while society whispers that you should be "having it all." Our candid chat opens with a humorous nod to Chris's gym escapades, setting the stage for a deep dive into the pressures of modern work life. As Anna bravely shares her battles with workaholism, the conversation shifts towards the necessity of setting boundaries and managing stress effectively. We take a closer look at the often overlooked pressures women face, questioning the myth of seamlessly balancing career and family life. Our discussion navigates the delicate dynamics between colleagues who are parents and those who aren't, illuminating the subtle tensions and misunderstandings that can arise. We examine how societal norms often steer us towards work-centric identities, sometimes at the expense of personal fulfillment and identity. Through our reflections, we expose the slippery slope to workaholism, where personal interests and family connections can be sidelined in the pursuit of career success. In a world where the lines between work and personal life blur more than ever, we explore the concept of work-life integration as a more fluid approach to achieving harmony. Sharing personal anecdotes, we highlight the importance of crafting a personal rhythm that incorporates family time, hobbies, and self-care. By challenging traditional notions of work-life balance, we advocate for a lifestyle that resonates with individual values and desires, free from societal expectations. Join us as we unravel these complexities and offer insights into fostering environments that nurture both personal well-being and professional productivity. Microsoft 365 Copilot Adoption is a Microsoft Press book for leaders and consultants. It shows how to identify high-value use cases, set guardrails, enable champions, and measure impact, so Copilot sticks. Practical frameworks, checklists, and metrics you can use this month. Get the book: https://bit.ly/CopilotAdoptionSupport the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith