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When organizations rely on spreadsheets, workarounds, and “heroes” to keep operations moving, they often create bigger long-term problems in the process. This episode explores how leadership pressure, weak governance, and rushed decision-making fuel hero culture and why slowing down can actually protect the business.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/giF48fK63cg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial 

Hero culture might solve problems in the moment, but it can also create long-term governance, process, and technology chaos. This episode breaks down how leadership, IT, and business teams can balance flexibility with structure while building organizations that reward consistency instead of constant firefighting.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/giF48fK63cg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial 

AI can automate tasks, improve workflows, and even make split-second decisions, but accountability still belongs to people. This episode explores the growing risk of “set it and forget it” AI culture, shadow agents inside organizations, and why businesses still need strong governance, visibility, and human oversight as AI adoption accelerates.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/giF48fK63cg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial 

Hero culture often starts with leadership bypassing governance in the name of urgency. This episode explores how executives, IT teams, and long-standing relationships can unintentionally create unsustainable systems and decision-making patterns. It also highlights why slowing down, asking better questions, and focusing on the bigger picture are critical during transformation.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/giF48fK63cg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial 

AI can create the illusion of clarity while accelerating poor decision-making. This episode explores how organizations are jumping to solutions without understanding the problem and why governance exists to prevent costly mistakes. It also breaks down how to build better decision-making processes in an AI-driven world.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

AI makes it easier than ever to deploy tools and integrations, but speed can come at a cost. This episode explores how organizations are solving problems too quickly without fully understanding them, leading to expensive and unnecessary complexity. It highlights why slowing down and diagnosing the root issue is more important than ever.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Middleware is meant to connect systems, not slow them down. This episode explores how poor resourcing and overreliance can turn middleware into a major bottleneck and source of technical debt. It also highlights how organizations unintentionally create these issues and what it takes to prevent them.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

When business units push for tools outside the standard architecture, the answer isn’t always no. This episode explores how to evaluate fit, prioritize value, and decide when integration makes sense versus when it creates unnecessary complexity. It also breaks down how to identify tool sprawl by focusing on redundancy, cost, and real business impact.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Enterprise architecture plays a critical role in guiding technology decisions as organizations scale. This episode explores how EA should balance ownership, collaboration, and decision-making across IT and the business. It also highlights why IT maturity must evolve alongside business complexity.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Ownership in modern technology environments is more nuanced than it seems. This episode breaks down the roles of IT and the business in managing systems, integrations, and security in a distributed, AI-driven world. It also highlights why clear accountability and strong collaboration are critical to making technology actually work.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial  

A healthy tech stack isn’t about having the newest tools. It’s about alignment, discipline, and architecture that actually supports the business. This episode breaks down when you don’t need new software and how strong enterprise architecture keeps your systems working together instead of against each other.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Not all expensive technology is wasteful, but not all of it is necessary either. This episode breaks down how to identify true value versus redundancy in your tech stack by looking at usage, overlap, and alignment to business processes. It also highlights how poor architecture decisions quietly create inefficiency over time.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/riD8ltW1nL0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

AI is only as reliable as the data it’s trained on, and that includes the worst parts of the internet. This episode unpacks how misinformation, bias, and human behavior show up in AI responses. It also reinforces why human oversight is critical in every AI-driven decision.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

AI doesn’t fail because of the technology. It fails because of broken relationships between business and IT. This episode explores why alignment, communication, and shared understanding are essential to building AI that actually works.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Building your own AI sounds appealing until you understand what it truly requires. This episode breaks down the real investment in data, engineering talent, and architecture needed to make it work. It also challenges whether full control is worth the complexity and responsibility that comes with it.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

The build versus buy decision becomes even more critical with AI, especially in regulated or high-risk environments. This episode explores how to evaluate vendors, when in-house development makes sense, and what it really means to own your AI systems. It also breaks down how use case, risk, and internal capability should drive the decision.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Not all data should be handed to AI, and knowing the difference is critical. This episode breaks down how to decide what AI can safely support versus what must remain protected to preserve competitive advantage. It also highlights the importance of human oversight and clear boundaries in AI adoption.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial      

Copilot is rapidly becoming the default in many organizations, but is that because it is the best tool or simply the safest bet. This episode explores how familiarity, ecosystem lock-in, and perceived security are shaping AI adoption decisions. It also challenges whether “safe” technology choices actually drive real value.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial  

Data quality is often assigned to one team, but in reality, it belongs to everyone who creates and uses it. This episode explores why shared ownership without structure leads to poor governance and inconsistent data. It also breaks down how organizations can create accountability without turning data into a free-for-all.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

AI is only as effective as the data behind it. This episode explores why clean, consistent data matters more than complex architecture and how poor data quality limits AI’s ability to deliver value. It also breaks down the importance of shared ownership and strong governance to make AI actually work in practice.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial  

Experimenting with AI is easy, but creating real value requires focus and intention. This episode explores why organizations need to commit to specific tools, align AI to clear business outcomes, and move beyond endless testing. It also breaks down how choosing the right platform can accelerate meaningful operational results.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/eijnXSAk8qw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial  

KPIs are meant to guide decisions, but when data definitions are inconsistent, they can create confusion instead of clarity. This episode explores how misalignment between teams, poor communication, and unclear AI strategies can amplify problems across the organization. It also highlights how technology can make things worse when the business and IT are not operating in sync.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/hVY5T2MQbWw    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial  

Massive public sector IT failures are not just about technology. This episode unpacks how vendor dependency, poor contracts, and lack of accountability have led to billions in taxpayer losses and repeated breakdowns. It also highlights the real-world consequences and what organizations can learn to avoid the same costly patterns.   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

AI agents are changing how work gets done, from automating customer support to reducing the need for traditional SaaS seats. This episode breaks down how these shifts are impacting platforms like Salesforce and why vendors are racing to layer AI into their offerings. It also explores the risk of adopting AI reactively instead of aligning it to real business needs.   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Many organizations are rushing to buy Copilot licenses without a clear plan, assuming security and value come built in. This episode breaks down the real numbers, low adoption rates, and hidden risks behind AI “check-the-box” decisions. It also highlights why governance, strategy, and actual usage matter far more than the logo on the tool.   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

The so-called SaaS Apocalypse is forcing organizations to rethink how they invest in software and prove real ROI. This episode explores how AI agents, tool sprawl, and shifting market expectations are changing the value of traditional SaaS platforms. It also breaks down what operators and leaders need to understand before jumping into the next wave of technology.   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Shadow systems are not created by bad employees. They are a symptom of leadership gaps, unclear communication, and tools that fail to meet real business needs. This episode explores why accountability starts at the top and how modern IT teams must evolve into true business partners to prevent risk and regain control.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Gv4vefu_yfo    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial        

Failed implementations are rarely accidents. This episode breaks down how rushed contracts, misaligned incentives, and lack of legal diligence leave organizations exposed while vendors avoid accountability. It also explores real-world cases and why slowing down upfront is the only way to protect your business long term.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Gv4vefu_yfo    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial    

Technology failures are rarely just about systems. This episode explores how leadership decisions, lack of communication, and poor alignment create repeated breakdowns across organizations. It also dives into the real risks behind ERP investments, shadow systems, and why discipline and clarity matter more than chasing the next big solution.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Gv4vefu_yfo    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial    

Large technology investments rarely deliver immediate returns, which makes them difficult to justify. This episode explores how to frame long-term value, communicate ROI, and align leadership around the bigger picture. It also breaks down the real risks of ERP implementations, from cost and disruption to ongoing SaaS expenses.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Gv4vefu_yfo    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Technical expertise isn’t what makes executives effective in technology decisions. This episode explores why listening to internal teams and staying aligned with business needs matters far more than trying to be the expert. Strong leadership comes from balancing strategic priorities with trust in the people closest to the work.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Gv4vefu_yfo    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Many organizations rely on Excel workarounds and disconnected reporting without realizing the root issue isn’t the system. This episode explores ownership of data, reporting responsibility, and the risks of over-relying on vendors or integrators. The focus is on creating a single source of truth and building reporting processes that actually support the business.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/RZnuL2aEU1Y    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial      

The build versus buy decision is becoming more critical as AI agents enter the enterprise. This episode explores why understanding what you’re buying, how it integrates, and who owns it is essential before making a commitment. The focus is on maintaining control, reducing risk, and making informed decisions that actually support the business.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/RZnuL2aEU1Y    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial  

Many organizations rush into AI without defining what they actually need it to do. This episode explores why starting with the problem leads to better outcomes than chasing trends. The focus is on making disciplined, value-driven technology decisions.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/RZnuL2aEU1Y    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial  

Many organizations blame their technology when the real issue is how they operate. This episode explores why poor processes, lack of structure, and unclear ownership are often the root problem. Fix the foundation before investing in something new.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EJ03W5KNxh0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Many organizations rush into new systems without fully understanding what’s actually broken. This episode explores why slowing down, involving frontline teams, and evaluating current tools often leads to better outcomes. Before replacing anything, the focus should be on solving the right problem and getting more value from what already exists.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EJ03W5KNxh0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Too many organizations rush into new systems without fully understanding the root problem. This episode explores why slowing down, listening to frontline users, and evaluating existing tools often leads to better outcomes. Before replacing anything, the focus should be on using what already works more effectively and aligning solutions to real business needs.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EJ03W5KNxh0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

AI does not create value on its own. It should enable a clear strategic objective defined by the business. This episode explores how to set expectations for AI investments, what outcomes should be contractually aligned, and why vendor roadmaps and legacy system sunsetting have more to do with their business model than your success.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EJ03W5KNxh0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

One of the biggest mistakes organizations make when evaluating legacy systems is assuming the technology is the limitation. This episode explores how people, processes, and policies often create the real constraints, and why replacing software without addressing those issues leads to the same problems in a new system.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EJ03W5KNxh0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Infrastructure is only one piece of the cost equation. This episode breaks down how operational complexity and people impact the true cost of system decisions, from internal resource strain and burnout to the risks of replacing systems that already work. The focus is on evaluating tradeoffs realistically and understanding what your organization can sustain before making a change.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EJ03W5KNxh0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Companies often hold on to legacy systems longer than they should, but the real question is not age. It is capability. This episode explores how to recognize when a system is preventing strategic growth, why the software itself is not always the problem, and how to evaluate when adding or changing systems becomes necessary.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/EJ03W5KNxh0    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Maintenance data can dramatically improve production planning, but only if the data is trustworthy. This episode explores how predictive maintenance, machine sensors, and operational expertise should inform reliability decisions, while emphasizing the importance of validating data before relying on it to guide production strategy.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/V64qoIrPdAQ    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Software vendors are responsible for selling their products, not for outlining every risk your organization might face. This episode explores why businesses must take ownership of risk evaluation when purchasing SaaS, from understanding contract terms and exit clauses to identifying operational and financial exposure before signing the agreement.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/V64qoIrPdAQ    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

When data is scattered across SaaS systems, vendor platforms, and disconnected databases, accountability becomes critical. This episode explores the role of the data owner and data steward, why process discipline matters for maintaining reliable data, and how organizations can rebuild trust in their systems by establishing clear ownership and governance.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/V64qoIrPdAQ    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Digital maturity is not robots or futuristic automation. It shows up in everyday operations. This episode explores what a digitally mature production day actually looks like, from simple digital time tracking to connected machines, accessible performance data, and teams that know how to question and validate the information they use to make decisions.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/V64qoIrPdAQ    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Digital maturity is often treated like a buzzword, but what does it really mean inside an organization? This episode explores the practical markers of digital maturity, from implementing and adopting new systems to understanding data architecture, infrastructure, and connectivity. True maturity is not about buying more technology. It is about knowing how to use it and where your data actually lives.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/V64qoIrPdAQ    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

If AI agents can eventually run operational workflows autonomously, what parts of today’s products, roles, or processes become obsolete? This episode explores how AI-driven execution could reduce variation, push quality beyond traditional Six Sigma standards, and reshape industries built around human-managed operations.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/A31UKTnGmLg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

What’s really holding AI agents back from operating autonomously in high-stakes environments? This episode explores the real constraints: safety, immature IT architectures, fragmented data, and weak feedback loops. Until those foundations improve, most enterprises simply aren’t ready for fully autonomous AI.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/A31UKTnGmLg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

At what point does an AI agent move beyond being a tool and start functioning like a digital employee? The answer comes down to intent and design. This episode explores how agents that inform decisions and act within workflows differ from simple AI tools, and why the label “digital employee” often creates more confusion than clarity.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/A31UKTnGmLg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

If you were founding a company today with AI agents at the core, where would you start? In this episode, we explore how to use AI strategically from day one, automating low-risk, repeatable workflows like invoicing and order translation while avoiding complex, data-poor processes that invite failure. For established businesses, the focus shifts to identifying fertile ground where strong data, clear pain points, and reliable processes create the right conditions for AI to drive measurable value.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/A31UKTnGmLg    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/  Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/   Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham   Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial   Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial