

Microsoft Teams Insider
Tom Arbuthnot
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 26, 2025 • 24min
Microsoft Teams Queues App with Scott Plette, Partner Group Product Manager - Calling and Premium
Scott Plette, Partner Group Program Manager for Microsoft Teams Calling and Premium, shares his expertise on the innovative Queues app. He discusses how it enhances team collaboration and manages customer calls while providing essential insights through reporting features. Upcoming enhancements like shared call history and AI integration promise to automate insights and improve customer interactions. Scott also highlights advanced call monitoring features and the growth of Teams Phone during the pandemic, emphasizing adaptability in modern communication.

Mar 24, 2025 • 15min
Microsoft Teams Update - Enterprise Connect Special - March 2025
Dive into the latest developments in Microsoft Teams, including exciting new features like Apple Airplay integration and desk booking advancements. Discover updates on client functionality, security enhancements, and tools designed to boost collaboration. The conversation also covers the introduction of SMS for calling plans and highlights from the recent Enterprise Connect event. Get ready to optimize your Teams experience with these game-changing functionalities!

Mar 19, 2025 • 22min
The Path from PBX to Microsoft Teams Phone with Tom Garland, Global Service Delivery Manager
Tom Garland, Global Service Delivery Manager at Willis Towers Watson, shares his expertise on evolving from traditional PBX systems to Microsoft Teams Phone. He discusses the complexities of integrating legacy systems and how the pandemic accelerated the need for cloud-based solutions. Tom highlights the importance of aligning projects to business needs and managing user expectations, especially in diverse regions like India. He also emphasizes compliance with call recording regulations and enhancing user experiences through innovative technology.

Mar 12, 2025 • 33min
Mastering Microsoft 365 Change with Ally Ward, M365 Global Service Owner
In this chat, Ally Ward, the M365 Global Service Owner at a leading legal firm, shares her expertise in navigating the challenges of Microsoft 365 change management. She discusses the importance of assessing update impacts and tailoring communication tools within Teams to avoid user overload. Ally also emphasizes the critical role of subject matter experts and regional collaboration in streamlining change notifications. With over 30 years in the IT sector, she provides valuable insights on leveraging technology for effective adaptation and compliance.

Mar 5, 2025 • 25min
Copilot Practical Applications and Success Stories with Sarah Miller
Sarah Miller, Senior Product Marketing Manager for Microsoft 365 Copilot, shares her expertise on integrating AI in organizations. She discusses the transformative power of Microsoft Copilot and showcases real-world success, like Pets at Home, which enhances operations using AI agents. Key topics include the importance of enterprise security in AI adoption, the function of specialized agents in various industries, and the Copilot Dashboard and Success Kit for measuring AI impact. Sarah emphasizes collaboration between business users and IT for effective AI deployment.

Feb 26, 2025 • 35min
Microsoft Teams Phone and Rooms at Kingfisher, Revolutionising Retail Communications
Matt Sheldrick, M365 Product Designer at Kingfisher, discusses the company's transformative journey with Microsoft Teams. He shares insights on deploying video capabilities in stores to enhance collaboration and communication. The podcast reveals the importance of quick, efficient room setups and how they addressed the unique needs of a large retail organization. Sheldrick also dives into the integration of AI tools like Microsoft Copilot to boost productivity and enhance the hybrid meeting experience within Kingfisher's diverse work environment.

Feb 19, 2025 • 24min
Understanding Microsoft Teams Premium: Features and Use Cases
Mansoor Malik, Principal Group Product Manager for Microsoft Teams Premium, shares insights from his extensive experience with the platform. He dives into key features like Intelligent Recap and Microsoft Places, highlighting how these tools enhance productivity in hybrid work settings. Malik discusses the value evaluation of Teams Premium, focusing on ROI and branding in corporate communications. He also addresses advanced security features that empower users, ensuring privacy and data protection in modern workplaces. Tune in for an engaging exploration of workplace innovation!

Feb 13, 2025 • 15min
Microsoft Teams Update - February 2025
Dive into groundbreaking innovations in Microsoft Teams this February! Discover the new Microsoft Teams Rooms Express Install and explore enhancements like Super Resolution and multiple camera views. Plus, learn about fresh partnerships with OEMs and ODMs. Exciting updates on voice solutions and a glimpse into future developments round out this month's highlights. Stay in the loop with all things Teams!

Feb 12, 2025 • 50min
UC Status Podcast Crossover- Thoughts on 2025 from a combined 40+ years in UC
Join Randy Chapman, host of the UC Status Podcast, known for his expertise in the UC market, and Mark Vale, a regular contributor focused on Microsoft Teams innovations. They dive into the latest Teams features and what’s on the roadmap for 2025. The conversation explores the advancing role of AI in tools like Copilot and its implications for contact centers. They also discuss the evolution of BYOD strategies and the need for robust security in cross-platform communications. A lively exchange on the future of collaboration awaits!

Feb 10, 2025 • 28min
Chandra Chivukula, Vice President, Engineering Microsoft Teams
Chandra Chivukula, Vice President of Engineering for Microsoft Teams, shares insights from his extensive experience guiding Teams' evolution. He discusses the successful migration of over 320 million users to a new client, enhancing collaboration and innovation. Chandra delves into the use of cutting-edge web technologies, such as React and WebView2, to ensure a seamless experience across platforms. He highlights how a unified codebase and user feedback have shaped the architecture and feature set, paving the way for future advancements.


