The Global Discussion

In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins talks with Roger Spitz, an expert in strategic foresight and systems innovation. Roger's career spans investment banking, climate strategy, and thought leadership, making him a key figure in understanding and managing disruption in today's world. From Finance to Foresight Roger began his career in investment banking, where he held senior roles for nearly two decades, including Global Head of Mergers and Acquisitions at BNP Paribas, advising on $25 billion in deals. In 2017, his growing interest in the dynamics of change led him to shift his focus. This shift resulted in his roles as President of Techistential and Chair of the Disruptive Futures Institute, where he now explores how organizations can better prepare for an unpredictable future. The Disruptive Futures Institute Roger leads initiatives at the Disruptive Futures Institute (DFI) to help organizations navigate a complex, ever-changing world. DFI offers educational programs that equip leaders with the tools to manage uncertainty. The institute's leading publication, The Definitive Guide to Thriving on Disruption, provides strategies for managing disruption in areas like AI, climate change, and societal shifts. Preparing for the Future Roger emphasizes the importance of preparing for the future, especially with the rapid rise of technologies like AI. He discusses AI's challenges, including ethical concerns and its impact on the workforce, while recognizing its opportunities. Roger introduces the concept of "Techistentialism," which examines the risks and benefits of emerging technologies. He stresses the need for continuous learning and adaptability for individuals and organizations. Commitment to Education Roger's dedication to education is reflected in his speaking engagements and executive programs. His upcoming book, Disrupt With Impact: Achieve Business Success in an Unpredictable World, will offer strategies for thriving amidst disruption. His involvement with the World Economic Forum's Global Foresight Network and various boards further demonstrates his influence in shaping future strategies for business and society. Looking Ahead Roger focuses on helping organizations and individuals build resilience, particularly in the face of climate change. Initiatives like the DFI Sustainability & Climate Academy aim to speed up the energy transition for a sustainable future. Roger also plans to make DFI's educational offerings more accessible through digital courses, aligning with his goal of democratizing essential knowledge. Conclusion Roger Spitz's insights on The Global Discussion are invaluable for those interested in navigating the future. His expertise in strategic foresight, combined with his experience in investment banking and climate strategy, positions him as a leading voice in managing disruption and fostering innovation. For more on Roger's work, follow the Disruptive Futures Institute on LinkedIn or visit their website. His upcoming book, Disrupt With Impact, is also highly anticipated as a guide for navigating the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Simon Penson, the Founder and Managing Partner of Scaled Consulting, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. With a wealth of experience as an exited agency founder, angel investor, and board member, Simon Penson shares invaluable insights on scaling digital businesses, the intricacies of M&A, and the importance of aligning purpose with business success. From Journalism to Digital Pioneering Simon Penson's journey began in the mid-90s when he started his career in journalism. This period, coinciding with the rise of the Internet, sparked his interest in digital transformation. Simon quickly recognized the shifting patterns in how people consumed information and seized the opportunity to create content-driven affiliate sites. His early ventures laid the groundwork for a career in digital marketing and business leadership. Reflecting on his early days, Simon remarked, "I was born at the right time, right when the Internet was becoming a thing. My journalism background taught me the importance of audience creation, which is at the core of everything I've done since." Scaling and Exiting: Lessons Learned Throughout the discussion, Simon emphasized the importance of strategic growth and the art of scaling businesses effectively. He shared his experiences building and successfully exiting two digital businesses, most notably Zazzle Media, where he grew from a small team to a formidable digital content marketing agency. Zazzle Media's success culminated in its acquisition by IPG Mediabrands, a significant milestone in Simon's career. The Birth of Scaled Consulting Simon's passion for helping other entrepreneurs led to the creation of Scaled Consulting, a firm dedicated to guiding the next generation of agency leaders. At Scaled, Simon and his team provide tailored strategies to help businesses grow efficiently and prepare for successful exits. This consultancy is a culmination of Simon's years of experience in digital marketing, business strategy, and M&A. "Scaled was born from my desire to help others navigate the complex journey of building and scaling a business. We provide simple roadmaps to growth, and we roll up our sleeves to ensure those plans are executed effectively," Simon explained during the podcast. Investing in People and Technology Beyond his work at Scaled, Simon is a partner at Haatch Ventures, focusing on early-stage investments in high-growth B2B SaaS businesses. He also serves as an advisor and board member for several companies, leveraging his expertise to support founders in realizing their visions. When discussing the role of technology in business, Simon pointed out the potential pitfalls of "software bloat" and emphasized the importance of strategic planning over-reliance on tools. "Technology is crucial, but it's the strategy and execution that truly drive success. You need great people at the beginning and end of every process," he noted. A Purpose-Driven Approach to Business A recurring theme throughout the episode was Simon's belief in aligning business with purpose. After his successful exit, Simon asked deeper questions about his identity and purpose beyond business. This introspection has driven his passion for helping other entrepreneurs succeed financially and find fulfilment through their work. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Karena Bell, the Founder and CEO of ProfitLinz Solutions, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. With over three decades of experience in enterprise IT, systems, process, and financial optimization, Karena has carved out a reputation as a leader in turning business complexities into opportunities for growth and profitability. From Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneurial Vision Karena's journey from the corporate world to founding her own company is inspiring and instructive. After spending years advising C-suite leaders at Fortune 500 companies, Karena recognized that while corporations often made significant strides, they frequently left potential untapped. This realization fueled her desire to create ProfitLinz Solutions, a firm that doesn't just consult but partners with businesses to maximize their profitability. ProfitLinz Solutions: More Than Just Consulting At the heart of ProfitLinz Solutions is a unique approach to business consulting. Rather than offering generic advice, Karena and her team dive deep into the specifics of each client's operations, applying a forensic level of detail to financial analysis. This method uncovers inefficiencies and new revenue streams that businesses might overlook. Karena's philosophy is clear: profitability is not just about cutting costs. It's about aligning revenue and expenses so that both grow in tandem. Through innovative strategies such as AI strategic planning and personalized consulting, ProfitLinz Solutions helps businesses achieve this balance. In this episode, Karena likened her approach to profit optimization to a diamond, where various facets—like cost control, revenue generation, and AI implementation—contribute to creating a valuable and sustainable business. The Human Factor in Profitability A standout feature of Karena's approach is her unwavering dedication to maintaining the human factor in business operations. While she recognizes the power of AI and automation, Karena advocates for using them as tools that complement and amplify human efforts rather than replace them. This strategy not only safeguards jobs but also preserves the invaluable creativity and intellectual capital that employees bring to an organization. Karena also highlights the importance of internal talent development. Rather than resorting to layoffs, she advocates for re-skilling and re-assigning employees to roles where they can add the most value. This people-first strategy not only maintains morale but also drives long-term profitability. The Future of New Services As ProfitLinz Solutions prepares for a new brand launch, Karena focuses on expanding her company's services. With about 80 to 90 different solutions available, she continues to seek innovative methodologies that can further boost profitability for her clients. Her advice to business leaders? Cultivate a sense of curiosity. By constantly questioning the status quo and exploring new possibilities, businesses can uncover untapped opportunities that lead to sustainable growth and success. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Mark Redmond joins Host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion. Mark shares his journey from being the Chief Executive of the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland to founding his own venture, Redmond Coaching for Impact. With decades of experience working alongside some of the world's most influential organizations, Mark's insights into leadership, strategy, and personal development are both timely and transformative. A Career Rooted in Service and Impact Mark's early experience at Price Waterhouse (now PwC) set the stage for a lifelong commitment to client service and leadership development. Reflecting on his journey, Mark emphasized the importance of learning and development, noting, "I was always kind of passionate about learning and development and realizing people's potential." This passion led him to pivotal roles, including a near-decade tenure as Chief Executive of the Irish Tax Institute and, later, a decade-long role leading the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland. Transforming Leadership in a Complex World One of the most striking aspects of Mark's career is his ability to navigate complex environments and empower others to do the same. At the American Chamber of Commerce Ireland, he was at the forefront of fostering U.S.-Ireland relations, working closely with multinational corporations to drive economic growth and innovation. His insights into the unique relationship between the U.S. and Ireland offer valuable lessons on the power of strategic partnerships and leadership. During the podcast, Mark shared his belief that the world is facing a leadership crisis. He pointed out that authentic leadership is about service, not self-interest, and that the best leaders are those who are deeply reflective and committed to uncovering the truth in all situations. The Vision Behind Redmond Coaching for Impact In 2023, Mark transitioned into a new chapter by launching Redmond Coaching for Impact. This venture is not just a business but a mission to give back to current and future leaders by sharing the lessons he's learned over his illustrious career. The focus of Redmond Coaching is clear: helping individuals and teams enhance their self-belief, confidence, impact, and performance. Strategic Leadership: Simplicity and Agility A key takeaway from Mark's conversation on The Global Discussion is his perspective on strategy. He advocates for a simplified approach, where leaders focus on the essentials: understanding the vision, clearly defining roles, and measuring progress with actual data. Mark also highlighted the importance of agility in leadership, noting that the best organizations can pivot and adapt when necessary. A Call for Purpose-Driven Leadership As the conversation draws to a close, Mark leaves the audience with a powerful message about the future of leadership. He called for leaders to focus on democracy, truth, and understanding, quoting the Irish author Claire Keegan: "To fail to understand another, to fail to imagine another's life, spells the death of civilization." Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

In branding, standing out is no longer just a goal—it's a necessity. This was the central theme when Julie Cottineau, Founder and CEO of BrandTwist and Creator and Dean of Brand School, joined Simon Hodgkins, Host of The Global Discussion. With over 30 years of experience in the field, Julie's insights into branding are as interesting as they are revolutionary, offering a fresh perspective that can help any business or personal brand thrive. A Passion for Branding Julie's journey in branding began long before she held high-profile positions at global giants like Richard Branson's Virgin Group, Interbrand, and Grey Global. From a young age, she demonstrated an innate ability to innovate, as evidenced by her childhood creation of the "Pet Rock" long before it became a cultural phenomenon. This early example of creativity and resourcefulness set the stage for a career dedicated to pushing the boundaries of branding. "I've always been passionate about branding," Julie shared during the podcast. "It's about finding that unique angle—what I call the 'TWIST'—that makes a brand truly stand out in a crowded market." The TWIST: A Game-Changer in Branding Julie's proprietary "TWIST" methodology is the cornerstone of her branding philosophy. The TWIST involves looking outside your industry or category for inspiration, allowing you to bring fresh, unexpected ideas into your brand strategy. This approach has proven successful across various industries, helping brands like Virgin Hotels, Tyra Banks' personal brand, and Discovery Network achieve breakthrough results. Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, or someone looking to refine your personal brand, Julie's TWIST approach offers a roadmap to creating a distinctive and compelling brand identity. By drawing inspiration from unexpected places, brands can find new ways to connect with their audience, energize their employees, and, ultimately, drive business success. Embracing the Human Element in the Age of AI One of the most intriguing parts of the conversation was Julie's take on the role of AI in branding. As AI continues to shape the future of industries worldwide, Julie sees it as both a challenge and an opportunity. She emphasized the importance of using AI as a tool to enhance creativity rather than letting it dilute the human element that makes a brand unique. "AI can be a friend or foe in branding," Julie noted. "It's all about how you use it. Be the creative director—guide AI to reflect your brand's unique twist rather than letting it lead you down the path of mediocrity." Personal Branding: The CEO's Secret Weapon Julie didn't just stop at corporate branding. She also discussed the critical role of personal branding, particularly for CEOs and business leaders. According to Julie, a CEO's personal brand can significantly impact a company's overall brand perception and success. "People buy from people," Julie said. "It's crucial for CEOs to align their personal brand with their company's values and vision. This not only builds trust but also attracts top talent and loyal customers." Julie's book, TWIST: How Fresh Perspectives Build Breakthrough Brands, is a must-read. It's packed with actionable insights, real-world examples, and practical exercises that make branding not just a strategy but an engaging, creative process. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes David Galea, a prominent figure in digital transformation and emerging technologies, to The Global Discussion. David, who holds multiple influential roles, including Board Member at the Smart Cities Alliance EU Tech Chamber, Director at Centigo, and Group CEO of BEAT Limited, Malta, shared his extensive experience and visionary insights into the future of technology and its impact on business and society. A Passion for Change A pursuit of change and improvement characterizes David Galea's career. With over 25 years of experience, David has been at the forefront of guiding startups and established businesses through the complexities of digital transformation. His approach is grounded in the belief that technology, while not a magic wand, is a crucial enabler of change. "Technology is a key enabler of change, providing opportunities for organizations to innovate and drive progress," Galea emphasized during the podcast. From Startups to Global Giants Galea's portfolio is diverse. He has mentored digital startups across various sectors, including education, health tech, and fintech. His work extends to large-scale corporate projects and public sector initiatives, notably in setting up a Programme Management Office for British Petroleum's technology functions and managing the rollout of the 4G network in the UK. He has spearheaded digital projects in Malta that have transformed industries and government services. His passion for helping in the business world—startups and SMEs—is evident. He finds smaller entities' agility and innovative spirit particularly rewarding, as they often have the potential to outmaneuver more prominent and established competitors. Digital Made Simple One of the highlights of Galea's career is his book, "Digital Made Simple." This best-selling book, which has won the Axiom Business Book Award, distills the complexities of digital transformation into practical, actionable insights. "Today's problem is not the lack of information but the overload of it. My book aims to help sift through the noise and focus on what really matters," Galea explained. The book advocates for simplicity in digital strategies, emphasizing the need for organizations to focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) that truly drive success rather than getting bogged down in unnecessary complexity. Smart Cities and the Future of Work A portion of the podcast discussed the future of work and smart cities. Galea challenges the conventional term "smart cities," preferring "smart communities" to emphasize the centrality of human needs. "The focus should be on building cities around the needs of people – as consumers, citizens, and employees," Galea stated. David also highlighted the importance of fostering trust and relationships in remote work settings, essential for driving innovation and creativity. He believes that the future of work will increasingly require organizations to become learning entities, constantly adapting and evolving in response to new information and technologies. Looking Ahead As David looks to the future, he focuses on mentoring and coaching decision-makers to design and implement sustainable digital transformation programs. His approach is pragmatic, built on years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of technology. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Host Simon Hodgkins chats with Cat Johnson, the Founder of Cat Johnson Co and author of The Daily Co, on this episode of The Global Discussion. With a rich community building and content marketing background, Cat has dedicated over a decade to transforming coworking spaces into vibrant, purpose-driven communities. A Journey Rooted in Community Cat Johnson's passion for coworking began in an unlikely place: a record store. For 20 years, she immersed herself in the music scene, transitioning into freelance music writing and eventually discovering the world of coworking. This shift was transformative. "I'm a product of coworking," she shared. Her firsthand experience of the community's power to activate potential and drive personal and professional growth fuels her dedication to supporting coworking space operators. Cat Johnson is on a mission to elevate coworking spaces everywhere. The Lab: A Hub for Indie Coworking Spaces Cat launched The Lab, a marketing club for indie coworking spaces during the pandemic. This initiative, born out of a desire to build rather than cope during crises, has grown into a thriving membership community. "We have creeping up on 80 members from around the world," Cat noted. The Lab provides educational resources, marketing strategies, and a strong sense of community for coworking operators who often find themselves isolated despite their community-centric roles. Coworking Convos: Sharing Knowledge and Building Connections Coworking Convos is another cornerstone of Cat's business. It is a monthly virtual event series designed to help coworking space operators learn, share, and connect. These sessions feature experts who discuss topics ranging from giving great tours to handling leases. The goal is to elevate the entire coworking industry by sharing knowledge and best practices. "If everyone gets better, coworking as a whole rises," Cat emphasized. Over 7,000 people have attended Coworking Convos, The Daily Co: A Bite-Sized Guide for Community Builders Cat's book, The Daily Co, offers coworking space operators daily inspiration and practical advice. Written in short, digestible segments, it serves as a daily reminder of the importance of community and the transformational potential of coworking. Cat's writing aims to support community builders through their work's challenges and triumphs, reinforcing their vital role in fostering connected, engaged, and productive communities. Looking Ahead: Mastermind Programs and Beyond Constantly innovating, Cat hinted at the launch of mastermind programs designed for deeper dives into essential topics for coworking operators. These sessions will leverage the collective experience of The Lab's community, offering more personalized and intensive support. Connect with Cat JohnsonTo connect with Cat, visit https://catjohnson.co. You can also find her on LinkedIn. Final Thoughts As coworking spaces evolve, leaders like Cat pave the way for more connected, collaborative, and thriving work environments. Join Cat and other coworking leaders in creating a brighter, more connected future for workspaces worldwide. Cat Johnson's insights and resources offer invaluable support and inspiration. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global DiscussionWeb: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠ Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Episode 200 of The Global Discussion features an exceptional guest, David Bickford. David, a former Under Secretary of State and Legal Director to the British Intelligence Agencies MI5 & MI6, offers a unique perspective on the murky worlds of terrorism, espionage, and organised crime. His illustrious career and transition to a successful author make for a captivating story. A Distinguished Career in Intelligence David Bickford's journey is anything but ordinary. With a background in law, David initially worked as a legal advisor to the Turks and Caicos Islands government before joining the British Foreign Office. Before being invited to join MI5 and MI6 as their Legal Director, his work spanned human rights, defence, and even Space Law. His path to the intelligence agencies was unconventional, yet his contributions were monumental. In his role, David was at the forefront of the battle against international terrorism, espionage, and organised crime. His groundbreaking solutions and strategic insights earned him the Companion of the Order of the Bath, a prestigious honour recognising his exceptional service. Integrity and Courage: Hallmarks of an Intelligence Officer David's admiration for the intelligence officers he worked with is palpable. He speaks highly of their integrity, courage, and determination. "The very top quality that the agencies look for is integrity," David emphasises. This integrity is crucial as intelligence officers navigate the dangerous and complex world of espionage, ensuring that their actions are both necessary and proportional. He also highlights women's unique strengths in intelligence work, noting their remarkable ability to think simultaneously about multiple aspects of a situation and synthesise these threads into actionable intelligence. Transition to Authorship After an illustrious career in intelligence, David transitioned to authorship, bringing his rich experience into the world of espionage fiction. His novels, co-written with his wife, Cary, introduce readers to the world of Katya, a Russian intelligence agent navigating the perilous landscapes of terrorism and organised crimes Insights into Modern Threats David shares his insights on modern global threats. He discusses the complexities introduced by cyber terrorism, artificial intelligence, and fake news. David's experience underscores the importance of balancing individual rights with national security. His work with the intelligence agencies involved meticulously planning operations within a legislative framework, ensuring that the rights of individuals were respected even in the pursuit of national security. Looking Ahead David and Cary continue to write, with new projects on the horizon. The next instalment of Katya is called Arctic Betrayal, set in the Laptev Sea in northern Siberia, and a novel focusing on another major character from the Katya series. Final Thoughts David Bickford's journey from the secretive tunnels of MI5 and MI6 to the imaginative realms of espionage fiction is fascinating. His dedication to integrity, balanced rights, and storytelling excellence offer his readers and listeners a compelling narrative. Find more about David Bickford: https://davidbickford.co.uk/career https://davidbickford.co.uk/espionage-and-spy-thrillers Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Gemma Allen is a Director at Mason Hayes & Curran LLP and a contributor to Forbes and Nasdaq. Gemma was a former board member of the Foreign Trade Commissioners Association in New York and Vice President of B2C Technology Portfolio at IDA Ireland following her extensive roles at Microsoft. Gemma's journey into writing is nothing short of inspiring, marked by a blend of fortuitous events and bold moves. A Writer with a Purpose After participating in a virtual panel on remote working, Gemma was approached to write about female imposter syndrome. This event marked the beginning of her writing career, which led to her ongoing contributions to Nasdaq and Forbes. Making Waves in the Corporate World Gemma's articles for Nasdaq and Forbes have garnered significant attention. She has written extensively about AI, female investors, and the glaring disparities in venture capital funding for female-founded businesses. Her insights into the lack of diversity and equity in tech and finance are thought-provoking and crucial. In one of her recent pieces for Nasdaq, Gemma highlighted the potential of AI as a tool for good, especially in demystifying investment and financial management for women. She emphasized the need for greater representation of women and minorities in developing AI technologies to ensure ethical and inclusive advancements. One notable point Gemma shared during the podcast was her passion for promoting financial literacy among women. Inspired by her experiences and alarming statistics on female investment, she underscored the importance of educating women about financial management and investment opportunities. She believes that tools like AI can play a pivotal role in making financial literacy more accessible and empowering women to take control of their financial futures. The Power of Networking and Advocacy Beyond her writing, Gemma is a staunch advocate for women's empowerment. She is a member of Chief, a network designed to support women in executive roles. Chief provides a platform for peer advisory, networking, and mentorship, helping women navigate the complexities of the corporate world. Gemma's involvement with Chief has been instrumental in her professional growth. She values the opportunity to connect with like-minded women and participate in meaningful discussions that drive change. A Message to Young Women Gemma's journey is a testament to the power of courage and self-belief. Her advice to young women is simple yet profound: "Be courageous. If you don't believe in yourself, nobody will. Take risks and step out of your comfort zone." Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

Anna Cleary, an AI Marketing Consultant and the Global Strategic Marketing Program Director at Software AG speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. With over 20 years of experience in the B2B IT industry, Anna's insights into the evolving world of AI in marketing are invaluable. A Journey from Traditional Marketing to AI Integration Anna's career is a fascinating journey through various international landscapes. She has significant experience in digital and field marketing. Her experience included working with Software AG, a prominent B2B software company based in Germany. Acquired by IBM, Software AG is at the forefront of enterprise solutions, ranging from API and data integration to business process management and IoT. Anna's experience at Software AG involves managing global marketing campaigns across different business units. This experience has provided her with a unique perspective on AI's transformative impact in marketing. Recognized AI Influencer on LinkedIn Anna's foray into AI began with a personal curiosity that grew into a professional passion. She immersed herself in learning about AI's potential to revolutionize marketing, leading her to become a top voice on LinkedIn. Her posts, which blend practical insights with visionary ideas, have garnered widespread recognition, positioning her as a leading authority in AI marketing. The Disruptive Power of AI in Marketing During the discussion, Anna emphasized that we are merely at the beginning of AI's impact on the enterprise sector. She likened AI's transformative potential to the internet or mobile phones, underscoring that its influence is only set to grow. AI offers businesses unprecedented opportunities to scale operations, optimize processes, and enhance customer engagement. Custom GPTs: The Future of AI Marketing One of the standout points from the conversation was Anna's use of custom GPTs (Generative Pre-trained Transformers). These tailored AI models can perform a wide range of marketing functions, from content creation to SEO analysis and campaign planning. By developing custom GPTs for different customer profiles, businesses can achieve a level of personalization and efficiency that was previously unimaginable. Anna's approach involves breaking down marketing tasks into specific functions and creating GPTs to handle each. This practice saves time and allows small and medium-sized businesses to compete with larger enterprises by leveraging AI's capabilities. Staying Ahead in the AI Game Anna advises those new to AI against trying to "boil the ocean." Instead, she recommends focusing on specific use cases and mastering the tools relevant to those needs. By building a solid foundation and gradually expanding one's AI toolkit, businesses can effectively navigate the rapid advancements in AI technology. Final Thoughts Anna Cleary's expertise and passion for AI in marketing offer a glimpse into the future of this dynamic field. As AI continues to evolve, thought leaders like Anna will undoubtedly play a crucial role in guiding businesses through the complexities and opportunities that lie ahead Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. To support The Global Discussion, please visit: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/globaldiscuss Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion⁠⁠ Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook