
Microsoft Teams Insider
Microsoft Teams discussions with industry experts sharing their thoughts and insights with Tom Arbuthnot of Empowering.Cloud. Podcast not affiliated, associated with, or endorsed by Microsoft.
Latest episodes

Jun 4, 2025 • 22min
MDEP (Microsoft Devices Ecosystem Platform) Explained: Microsoft Teams Android devices and beyond
Chris Johnson, Senior Director of Program Management for MDEP at Microsoft, shares insights on the Microsoft Devices Ecosystem Platform. He discusses how MDEP tailors a secure Android OS for enterprises while highlighting collaborations with chipset vendors to enhance innovation. Chris emphasizes the significance of regular updates and security patches for device reliability. Listeners can look forward to new features in Android 15 and understand MDEP’s role in shaping a more secure and integrated future for Android devices.

May 28, 2025 • 28min
Unpacking Teams Phone Mobile with VMO2's Duncan Finlay
Duncan Finlay from VMO2, a telecom expert specializing in fixed and mobile technologies, joins the discussion. He highlights how Teams Phone Mobile integrates seamlessly with Microsoft tools to revolutionize corporate communication strategies. Listeners learn about the potential for cost savings and operational efficiencies while transitioning from outdated systems. The conversation also surveys the evolving landscape of digital self-service solutions and the rise of eSIMs, showcasing how cloud technologies enhance user experiences and simplify deployments for businesses.

May 27, 2025 • 15min
Microsoft Teams Update - May 2025
Discover the latest features and insights from Microsoft Teams, including exciting updates from the Microsoft Build conference. Dive into the implications of the EU antitrust case and how it might shape the platform. Learn about improvements like the network strength indicator and the end of Classic Teams for a smoother meeting experience. Plus, check out the advancements in Teams VDI and device updates that showcase Teams' exceptional performance over competitors.

May 21, 2025 • 34min
Trends in UCaaS and AI with Craig Durr and Kevin Kieller
Kevin Kieller, co-founder of EnableUC and analyst, teams up with Craig Durr, founder of the Collab Collective, to share insights from Comms vNext. They discuss how AI is transforming workplace collaboration with a focus on UCaaS platforms, including Microsoft's Copilot and Zoom's AI companion. The conversation dives into the evolving role of AI from a tool to a teammate, the importance of trust in AI adoption, and how reliable AI can boost productivity. They also touch on future developments like agent orchestration and multi-AI integration.

May 14, 2025 • 21min
Inside Gong’s AI Microsoft Teams Integration
Patrick Burke, an expert in technology partnerships at Gong, explains how AI can revolutionize revenue operations and boost sales performance. He dives into Gong's journey from basic conversational intelligence to a powerful revenue AI platform integrated with CRM systems. The integration with Microsoft Teams and Numonix for compliance and data insights is a game-changer. Patrick also speculates on future chat-centric AI tools that could transform sales strategies, emphasizing the importance of contextual data for success.

May 7, 2025 • 24min
Rolling Out 200 Teams Rooms globally in 90 Days and driving savings at SCOR
Reto Schadegg, Global IT Infrastructure Manager at SCOR, leads the rollout of 200 Microsoft Teams Rooms across 35 countries in just 90 days. He discusses the meticulous vendor selection that made Neat Bar Pro the core device for most rooms. The effort resulted in a remarkable 40% reduction in operational costs and streamlined support with only 1.5 personnel for 200 rooms. Reto also highlights SCOR's ongoing transition to Teams Phone, aiming to eliminate desk phones and achieve significant telecom savings.

Apr 28, 2025 • 35min
Compliance Recording in Microsoft Teams: What It Really Takes and How to Choose
In this discussion, Michael Levy, CEO of Numonix, a specialist in compliance recording solutions, shares insights on compliance-grade recording in Microsoft Teams. He talks about the rigorous certification process, the importance of adapting to platform updates, and the complex landscape of regulations like GDPR. The conversation also highlights advanced features like AI integration and filtered recording that enhance compliance. Levy emphasizes the need for ongoing security reviews to ensure that technology solutions remain compliant as they evolve.

Apr 22, 2025 • 14min
Microsoft Teams Update - April 2025
Microsoft Teams Monthly Update - April 2025Teams clients older than 90 days will be blockedGeneral Channel is backDetect sensitive content screen shared in meetingsShare PowerPoint control with all presentersNew Unify Contact Center to Microsoft Teams Integration modelEnforcement of Teams Phone license checks for Extend Contact Centres and Attendant ConsolesM365 Copilot Chat will be pinned by default in Teams and OutlookTeams Devices UpdatesRoadmap WatchThanks to Neat, this month's benefactor, for your support of Empowering.Cloud and the community.Note that this is an audio-only version of the update, so if you would like to see the accompanying slides, please watch the video version on Empowering.Cloud

Apr 21, 2025 • 15min
Bookable Desks in Microsoft Teams Explained
Evie Grimshaw, a Product Manager at Microsoft focusing on Teams devices, shares insights into the innovative bookable desks feature within Microsoft Teams. She explains how this system allows for seamless desk reservations without new hardware, enhancing the remote work experience. The discussion covers user control over location privacy, and how admins gain valuable insights through integrated analytics. Upcoming updates promise even more flexibility and smarter desk management, making hybrid work easier for everyone.

Apr 16, 2025 • 27min
Exploring Teams Phone Mobile: Mobile UCaaS Integration in Enterprise
Tom Arbuthnot speaks with Adam Holtby, a Principal Analyst at Omdia, about the evolving landscape of Teams Phone Mobile, mobile UCaaS integration and its strategic impact on organizations.Discussion Points:Challenges: Tom and Adam discuss the slow adoption of mobile UCaaS, highlighting the need for better integration between cellular networks and collaboration tools like Microsoft Teams and Cisco WebExOpportunity: The opportunity for telcos to become key integrators of advanced communication solutions, enhancing their business value.Strategic Benefits for Enterprises: A centralized approach to managing mobile and fixed collaboration tools can significantly reduce costs and improve operational efficiency for multinational companiesSecurity and Compliance: Benefits for regulated industries like financial services, where secure and compliant communication is essential.Thanks to Ribbon, this episode's sponsor, for their continued support and for helping to make content like this possible