Microsoft Innovation Podcast

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/646   What challenges await when you pack up your life and settle in a vibrant new city like Valencia, Spain? Our own Ana shares her personal adventure of embracing the local culture and the quirks of the Spanish education system, offering a glimpse into the exhilarating yet challenging landscape of 2025. Alongside this, Mark unpacks the burgeoning opportunities within the AI landscape, emphasizing a pivotal shift towards practical applications that promise to redefine the way organizations function. As we journey through this transformative year, we explore the concept of "trustworthy AI"—a vision that extends beyond mere compliance to encompass reliability and safety, inviting you to imagine a digital future where innovation and trust walk hand in hand.  Is AI truly a threat to our jobs, or could it be a catalyst for new opportunities? In this episode, we challenge the fear surrounding AI's potential to replace human roles, underscoring the irreplaceable value of critical thinking and creativity—skills only humans possess. Drawing parallels to the early days of the iPhone, we explore how AI's form and utility are still evolving, with trust in its systems being paramount. We unravel the intricacies of ensuring accuracy in AI outcomes by prioritizing relevant data and processes that correct errors. The conversation paints a hopeful picture of a future where AI models continue to improve through better data management, reminding us that while AI continues to evolve, so too will the opportunities for human growth and innovation.TAKEAWAYS• Exploring the pivotal concept of trustworthy AI • Importance of data quality in AI implementations • Evolving user experiences and the reducing importance of UI • The necessity of filtering data sets for accurate insight • Human roles in AI: critical thinking and creativity emphasized • Anticipating future job roles in an AI-dominated landscape • Navigating upcoming AI regulations and their implicationsSupport 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/645 The episode shines a light on the transformative potential of Microsoft 365, particularly through its AI capabilities like Copilot. Simon Doy discusses integrating Copilot's custom solutions, highlights the importance of data security, and explains the Microsoft 365 Maturity Model's role in guiding organizations toward effective technology utilization.  TAKEAWAYS• Simon cherishes time spent bouldering and engaging in meaningful family routines, such as sharing daily highlights during meals.  • A daily meditation routine helps Simon stay focused and manage a dynamic lifestyle. • He emphasizes the importance of robust data management strategies to mitigate risks, prevent data oversharing, and maintain security. • Simon co-developed a comprehensive framework to help businesses maximize Microsoft 365's potential for productivity and governance. • The role of artificial intelligence in enhancing business productivity. • Deep dives into Microsoft Copilot's functionality and real-world applications. • Examination of data security risks and effective management strategies. • Insights into the competencies and practical implementation of the Microsoft 365 Maturity Model.OTHER RESOURCES  •  Acquired Podcast - https://www.acquired.fm/ •  Microsoft Research Podcast - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/podcast/ai-frontiers-rethinking-intelligence-with-ashley-llorens-and-ida-momennejad/ •  Filter by the AI keyword - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/podcast/?msockid=0a0c194908e364fc326c0d4d09bb6531•  Maturity Model for Microsoft 365 - https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/community/microsoft365-maturity-model--intro •  Article on some Gotchas with Copilot Studio and GPT-40 - https://simondoy.com/2024/08/01/gotchas-discovered-building-a-custom-engine-copilot-with-gpt-4o-and-copilot-studio/ 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 NOTEShttps://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/644In this episode, we dive into the exhilarating leap from MVP status to freelancing, as Angelo Gulisano unveils the freedom and creativity that self-employment affords. We offer listeners a roadmap for successfully marketing oneself as a freelancer, emphasizing the power of community engagement through conferences, blogging, and leveraging tools like the Creator Kit and Figma for Power Apps. Whether you're an aspiring freelancer or a seasoned tech professional, Angelo's insights promise a blend of inspiration and practical strategies to thrive in the ever-evolving tech landscape. TAKEAWAYS • Introduction to Angelo and his life in Italy • Journey in the IT field leading to MVP status • Transitioning from corporate life to freelancing • Overcoming fears associated with leaving job security  • Strategies for finding clients and self-promotion • Discussion on the Creator Kit and its benefits • Insights into public speaking and its impact on professional growth • Preparation techniques for effective presentations • The Power Platform community in Italy is supportive and collaborative • Angelo emphasizes the importance of soft skills in marketing oneself • Angelo uses the Creator Kit for application development • Networking through conferences helps in finding clients • Angelo's journey reflects a blend of personal passion and professional expertise.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/643  This episode explores the evolving landscape of recruitment within the Microsoft ecosystem, focusing on the growing trend of in-house talent acquisition over traditional partnerships. Bilal (Bill) Khan shares his personal journey, insights on the importance of AI skills, and the vital role of personal branding in securing opportunities in the tech industry.TAKEAWAYS• Discussion on the shift from Microsoft partners to in-house recruitment teams • Importance of empathy and the human element in recruitment • Emerging need for AI skills in the job market • Insights on personal branding and its impact on careers • Reflections on family, food, and fun as integral to work-life balance• How can career development be self-initiated in partner organizations? • Why is building in-house teams becoming a more cost-effective strategy for businesses? • How can agencies adapt their approach to client relationships to stay competitive? • How is AI expected to revolutionize recruitment by 2025? • Why are empathy and effective communication essential in recruitment?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/642 This episode showcases Kristoffer Ruyeras, a new MVP, as he shares insights into his journey navigating the tech landscape, the importance of community engagement, and the blend of personal heritage with professional passion. His experiences highlight how storytelling and connection shape the road to becoming an MVP and the value of knowledge-sharing platforms like blogs and podcasts. TAKEAWAYS• Exploration of Kristoffer’s background and cultural heritage • Insights into the Matalino blog and its mission • Overview of the Dynamics Corner podcast and its organic style • Discussion about community engagement and networking experiences• Becoming an MVP is a journey of learning, sharing, and community involvement.• Kristoffer's journey highlights the value of mentorship • Reflections on the journey to becoming an MVP and the significance of sharing knowledge• Learn the importance of education and continuous learning in his career.• Kristoffer believes in the power of community to help individuals grow in their careers.OTHER RESOUIRCESKristoffer's Personal Blog: https://matalino.io/about  Support the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

In this engaging discussion, Kasper Larsen, a Microsoft M365 MVP and senior solution architect, shares his expertise in PowerShell and SharePoint Premium. He highlights the often-overlooked power of automation for streamlining tasks and enhancing document management. Kasper delves into exciting AI integrations, especially in SharePoint Premium. He reflects on community-driven initiatives that make these tools even more impactful. Plus, he shares thoughts on leisure activities like diving that remind us of the balance between work and play.

FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/640   Asif Rehmani's journey as a Microsoft MVP showcases the vital intersection of user support and technology adoption. Through his work with Visual SP, he reveals how contextual assistance can effectively bridge knowledge gaps and empower employees at every stage of their careers. • Discussion of the MVP journey and experiences • Insights into the evolution of Visual SP • Importance of contextual support for users • Personal anecdotes linking life experiences to professional growth • Reflections on the changes within the MVP program over the years • Exploration of effective educational tools and their impact on user training • Emphasis on community and networking among MVPsOTHER RESOURCES: Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP 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/639  Discover the transformative journey of Douglas Daley from Sydney as he shifts from a tech-focused career at IBM to a more business-centric role at PwC. Gain insights into how this evolution is not just a career pivot but a holistic change that enhances both professional and personal life. Doug's tale is as much about embracing business perspectives to boost organizational performance as it is about balancing these insights with passions outside work, like his love for pre-industrial furniture making. This episode unpacks how traditional crafts can offer a much-needed antidote to burnout culture, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.Explore how AI is revolutionizing technology consulting, with a focus on creating a diverse personal knowledge base. This episode sheds light on the tools that are shaping the field, from ChatGPT to Midjourney, and emphasizes the significance of adopting AI-enhanced methods for capturing and organizing information. We also discuss the pressing need for creativity and caution against becoming overly reliant on AI-generated content. With Doug's valuable reflections, listeners will understand the impact and potential of AI tools like Notion AI in streamlining business processes and how they are reclaiming time for more profound, creative endeavors.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/638  Experience the inspiring journey of C R Bhargavi, a senior software engineer at Ford Motor Company, who blends her technological expertise with her rich cultural heritage. Sparked by her father's legacy as a software project manager, Bhargavi walks us through her path into the tech world, focusing her talents on the Power Platform to revolutionize business processes. As she shares her story, listeners are invited to explore how her early exposure to technology set the foundation for her career and how her Indian roots and artistic passions in fashion design and Bharatanatyam dance shape her personal and professional life.Join us in this episode as we explore the intricacies of balancing a career with personal passions through Bhargavi's experiences. Discover her role at Ford, where she applies her Power Apps skills to tackle business challenges, reflecting the company's commitment to Dynamics 365 and the Power Platform. Hear firsthand how community networking and familial guidance molded her journey, and find inspiration in her story of integrating technology with the arts. This conversation sheds light on the multifaceted nature of a career in tech, celebrating the fusion of cultural influences and professional accomplishments.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/637  Discover the inspiring journey of Cat Schneider, a senior software engineer at Hitachi Solutions America, as she shares her remarkable career transformation from working in the public sector to becoming a passionate advocate for Power Platform tools. Through her engaging story, you'll learn how a mentoring relationship at the Florida Department of Transportation ignited her interest in Power BI, leading to the creation of a community with over 300 active users. Cat's enthusiasm for integrating these tools not only revolutionized her organization but also positioned her as a sought-after speaker at conferences and opened doors to multiple job offers, including one from Microsoft. This episode is filled with insights into how passion and community can drive innovation and success in both personal and professional realms.We also tackle the significant topic of accessibility, particularly in the public sector, with a focus on making digital content and laws available to all. Cat sheds light on the challenges posed by Florida's sunshine laws and shares her experience forming a user group dedicated to UX, UI, and accessibility. Highlighting the fun yet exhausting world of conferences, she brings a sense of humor with tales of dressing up as a dinosaur, while also sharing her pet projects involving Power Apps and electronics with Arduino and Raspberry Pi. This episode promises to leave you inspired and motivated to explore the transformative potential of technology in creating inclusive and innovative solutions.Support the showIf you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin.Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith