ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in Tech

What’s keeping tech leaders up at night? According to CIO Simon Sayegh, it’s not just AI hype. It’s legacy systems, missing skill sets, and unclear outcomes. Segmented Discussion Points: 1. Outcome-Driven Architecture, Not Agile Theatre Why “agile in name only” is no longer good enough The rising demand for capability-based partnerships How CIOs can enable business outcomes without owning everything 2. Simplify or Sink: The Case for Fit-for-Purpose Tech The hidden risks of going “best in class” vs. “fit for purpose” Why modular and hybrid architectures are the new normal Lessons from consolidation trends across enterprise tech 3. The AI Reality Check Why “guardrails first” is Simon’s golden rule for AI adoption What boards should really be asking about AI projects The difference between solving a problem and chasing a trend 4. Partner Ecosystems and Trusted Networks The modern CIO’s secret weapon is who they can call at 5pm on a Friday When to outsource, near-source, or in-source (and how to decide) The underrated art of asking, “Help me understand the value you bring” 5. Culture Isn’t Motherhood Stuff. It’s a Strategy Why work teams are more like sporting teams than families The cost of keeping your “best performer” with the worst behaviour How shared KPIs can transform internal relationships 6. Two-Speed Tech Teams and Career-Defining Projects Why CIOs must deliver quick wins while building long-term foundations The uncomfortable truth: most organisations don’t know what’s going on under the hood Reframing AI as “just another project” but with way more risk 👋 Follow ThunderLabs on LinkedIn for more sharp, human takes. Or subscribe to our newsletter for fresh episodes and smarter thinking. 

What do you do when the strategy slides are polished, the goals are lofty, and yet… nothing moves? In this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan sits down with Robert Winter—thinker, writer, leadership philosopher—to unpack why good people get stuck in toxic environments, how complexity messes with traditional management, and why real leadership feels more like gardening than goal-setting. Whether you're a team lead, a CEO, or just the person quietly holding the business together, this one's for you.  Segmented Discussion Points: 1. Leadership Without the Title What is “discretionary boundary spanning” and why does it matter more than job titles? Why the real leaders in your organisation probably don’t sit in the executive team. The invisible work that keeps businesses alive (and why it rarely gets rewarded). 2. Complexity vs. Complication How to tell if you're managing a complicated process or leading through complexity. Why traditional management breaks down in uncertain environments. The role of language and shared understanding in navigating the unknown. 3. The Curse of Overpreparedness How fear of looking foolish creates paralysis (even in seasoned leaders). Why the most competent people often hesitate—and why that’s not a bad thing. Learning to speak, even when you don’t have all the answers. 4. The Problem with “We’re a Family” Why calling your team a family can backfire—and what to say instead. Navigating organisational growth without losing trust or psychological safety. What to do when people love the work but not the workplace. 5. The Art of Situational Leadership Knowing when to talk, when to do, and when to direct. How to manage without micromanaging. What makes a good manager feel like a leader. 6. Rituals of Reflection and Thinking Time Why your best team members aren’t just busy—they’re thoughtful. The leadership skill no one teaches: creating space for thinking. How “malicious compliance” can kill momentum. 7. Writing to Think, Not Just to Publish Why writing privately is still a leadership skill. The surprising power of choosing the right word. Building influence by showing your thought process, not your credentials. 

Chris McGowan sits down with technology and business leader Alistair Burton. From the realities of justifying IT costs to the uncomfortable truth about our industry’s talent pipeline, this episode is a charged-up unpacking of what tech leaders are really wrestling with in 2025. Discussion Points: 1. The Power of Showing Up What happens when you ask better questions and truly listen The underrated career value of curiosity and connection Alistair’s own reflections on what his podcast taught him about leadership and growth 2. The Top 5 Things on Tech Leaders’ Minds for 2025 AI: Innovation enabler or shiny distraction? Cybersecurity: Why even mature organisations can’t let their guard down Data & Analytics: Why we’re still fighting the same battles from 20 years ago Talent: The hidden cost of always hiring “ready-made” professionals Cost Justification: Why proving value is still harder than it should be 3. Enterprise Architecture: Proving the Value Before the Roof Leaks Why architecture is hard to measure… until it’s too late Tactics for justifying the existence of functions that prevent disasters Breaking down cost in a language execs actually understand 4. Innovation, Risk, and Playing with AI The difference between exploring AI and implementing it What smart experimentation really looks like How to fund innovation without being told to “just trust me” 5. The Talent Pipeline Problem (and a Possible Fix) Why most organisations aren’t growing their own talent The lost art of hiring for potential over polish A throwback to a nearshore innovation model that might be due for a comeback  If you’re a tech leader navigating AI, budgets, or hiring headaches, this one’s for you. Subscribe to ThunderCast on your favourite platform and follow us on LinkedIn to stay charged-up with more no-fluff insights. 

In this refreshingly real episode of ThunderCast, General Manager of ThunderLabs, Ali McKee, joins host Chris McGowan for a deep conversation on career transitions, motherhood, and leadership. Ali shares how she made the leap from print to tech, the power of pushing past self-doubt, and what it really takes to show up — at work, at home, and in life. Whether you're re-entering the workforce, navigating growth as a parent, or just feeling a bit stuck in your career, this one’s for you. Episode Breakdown1. From Safe to Stretch: The Career Leap Why Ali left a “safe” job in print to jump into the unknown world of tech The mindset shifts required when switching industries What happens when you realise you’ve been underestimating yourself for years  2. Mental Load & Modern Leadership The invisible weight working parents carry—and how to handle it Why judgement-free flexibility is more than a nice-to-have The reality of showing up for your kids and your team  3. Vulnerability vs Strength: The Balancing Act Why being open is a competitive advantage (and not a liability) The kind of support returning professionals really need How to spot the difference between growth and overwhelm  4. Choosing Work That Works for You What to look for in your next job (it’s not just salary or title) Why believing in the mission makes the hard days worth it Ali’s take on financial freedom, fulfilment, and flexibility  5. Advice for Re-Entry and Reinvention How to prepare for job interviews after time away Tips for regaining confidence in a changed job market Why openness to learning might be your greatest asset  

In this special morning edition of ThunderCast, Chris sits down with Abdullah Ramay, CEO of Pablo & Rusty’s Coffee Roasters, to grind through the big questions in leadership, business, AI, and, of course coffee. Abdullah’s obsession with craft, culture, and continuous learning turns this casual chat into a masterclass on building resilient, human-centric businesses in an era of rapid change. 1. Coffee Economics 101 (Without Putting You to Sleep) - Why global coffee prices have skyrocketed and why your $5 flat white might still be too cheap. - The difference between commodity and specialty coffee (spoiler: Arabica snobs, you’re not wrong). - How climate, supply chains, and consumer expectations are reshaping the coffee industry.  2. Product, Service, Experience… Emotion? - Coffee as a ritual, not just a beverage. - The four lenses every business should use to evaluate their offering. - The surprising power of a good cup and why it’s not about caffeine.  3. Obsession > Passion: The Case for Caring Too Much - Why great leaders are often slightly obsessed (in the best way). - How motivation can be cultivated and why your team’s energy is contagious. - Why sweeping the floors still matters, even when you’re CEO.  4. Human Touch in a Robotic World - What AI could mean for the hospitality industry — from barista bots to emotion-aware service. - The risk of replacing connection with convenience. - Why 'made by humans' might be the next premium feature.  5. Scaling Culture Without Burning the Beans - Why great founders must build great leaders. - How to keep your values intact while growing the business. - The delicate balance between indoctrination and inspiration.  6. Technology, Transformation & Tinkering With the Future - Why some businesses are stuck bolting AI onto broken systems. - Why innovation should start now—not after your ERP upgrade. - Build the laser, then the Death Star: how to experiment at low risk and high reward.  7. The Secret Sauce? Curiosity - Abdullah’s self-confessed superpower: an unstoppable urge to learn. - Why curiosity might be the only long-term career hack that matters. 

In this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan sits down with Hugh Le, founder of Juxtabyte and former data lead at CBA, to talk about the unseen costs of building something new, the cultural layers of stoicism, and the inevitable collision of AI, governance, and ethics. They dig into the modern workplace, the shift in workforce dynamics, and whether suffering is just a part of the human condition or something we’re learning to opt out of. This is a conversation for anyone navigating change, whether in tech, leadership, or life itself.  Episode breakdown 1. From the Bike to the Mic Chris and Hugh reflect on their past cycling experiences, particularly their shared suffering during long rides. The unexpected journey from endurance sports to sitting across from each other on a podcast. 2. The Power of Shared Suffering How shared physical and mental endurance fosters deep connections. The parallels between enduring physical hardship (like long-distance cycling) and navigating professional and personal challenges. Why suffering together leads to more meaningful conversations and relationships. 3. Riding for a CauseThe contrast between physical illnesses (which demand immediate treatment) and mental health struggles (which are often suffered in silence). How different cultures handle mental health challenges and the need for greater awareness. 4. Cultural Stoicism & The Silent Struggle Hugh reflects on stoicism in Asian culture Chris compares this to the British "mustn't grumble" attitude and explores whether suffering in silence is helpful or harmful. Is enduring hardship quietly an inherent cultural trait, or is it a universal human experience? 5. The Body Keeps the ScoreChris shares his experience of avoiding the book The Body Keeps the Score The impact of unprocessed emotions over time and the importance of finding healthy outlets. 6. Genetic Memory & The Science of Inherited Trauma Can suffering be passed down through DNA, or is it purely environmental? The nature vs. nurture  7. The Raging Frontier of Science & Ethics The tension between scientific advancements and society’s ability to ethically process them. AI, genetic modifications, and the inevitable march toward augmentation—just because we can, should we? 8. The Founder's Journey: Risk, Conviction & Getting Started Hugh’s transition from executive management to launching Juxtabyte. The importance of risk assessment and deciding how much to invest in a new venture. 9. Momentum & The Universe's Role in Success Hugh’s belief that the universe rewards momentum. How unexpected support, mentorship, and resources materialise when you put yourself out there. 10. Learning to Be a Jack of All Trades The reality of wearing multiple hats as a founder.The importance of being "just good enough" to get started and building expertise along the way. 11. Goal-Setting: Holding Plans Lightly & Revising Up Why rigid goal-setting can be limiting.Trusting that growth happens in ways you can’t fully anticipate at the start. 12. The Future of Work: Flexibility, Gig Economy & Specialisation The shift towards fractionalised work.Chris draws a comparison to Uber and Airbnb, questioning whether employment models will follow the same trend. Hugh explores how AI and automation may redefine job roles and career stability. 13. The Intersection of Product & Services: A New Business Model Chris’s belief that the future isn’t just product or services, but a hybrid model. Why companies struggle to break away from rigid service-based or product-based thinking. 14. The Uncommonly Held Belief That Drives ThunderLabs Chris shares his deeply held belief that recruitment and talent deployment must evolve. The long-term vision of building a human-technology interface that ensures meaningful, sustainable work for top talent. 

Chris McGowan sits down with Mark Drasutis, a digital leader with 25+ years of experience spanning media, product development, and digital transformations. They explore how businesses have evolved alongside digital, the importance of simplifying customer experiences, and how to drive product value in today’s tech-savvy market.  Discussion Points  The Digital Thread through Mark’s Career  The steel thread of Mark's career: Simplified customer experiences and effective team building.  How early career experiences in media and AOL shaped his approach to product strategy.  Why digital isn't just a "thing"—it’s a mindset.  Making the Transition: Operational Excellence & Team Building  How leadership thrives on embracing uncertainty.  Building diverse teams to spark innovative solutions.  Why "alignment" is crucial—5 millimeters of misalignment at the top can lead to a 500-meter gap in execution.  Digital Consulting & Ecosystem Thinking  Chris and Mark dive into why every business is now a digital business.  Why organisations need to rethink their operating models to stay competitive.  Finding balance: data-driven decisions vs. the "tummy compass."  Data, Signal, and Simplification in Product Development  The complexities of being data-driven and making data-augmented decisions.  What makes Amplitude stand out in enabling businesses to understand customer behavior.  Mark’s philosophy: everything is a work in progress—embrace continual improvement.  Don’t miss this episode if you're ready to rethink your approach to digital experiences and leadership. If you enjoy the conversation, hit Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts on how digital transformation is shaping your business! 

Chris McGowan dives deep into a wide-ranging conversation with Kim Spithill, Head of Delivery, and Shane Mercer, Head of Emerging Technology. Grab your virtual notepads because the trio covers everything from the elusive nature of innovation to the complexities of AI in tech delivery.   Whether you're here to geek out over technical architecture or hear how AI could change the very fabric of our future, this episode packs a charged-up punch of insights and a healthy dose of philosophical pondering.  Discussion Points:  Fast Delivery vs Long-Term Value:  How do fast delivery and long-term value coexist in software development?  The role of good architecture and avoiding technical debt.  Socratic thinking: Essential vs. Accidental Complexity in engineering.   AI and Software Engineering:   Shane explains how AI could redefine the pace of development.  Are we ready for AI-driven software and how can we prepare?  The lessons Shane learned from building and selling companies.   The Philosophy of Innovation:   Is innovation a parasite on current performance? Shane and Kim debate the nature of progress.  The Socratic method in tech leadership—asking better questions.  What role do human limitations play in technical innovation?   Leading Delivery in an Evolving World:  Kim shares what it takes to lead delivery teams in the modern tech space.  Delivery Leadership vs. Project Management: Why traditional approaches aren't cutting it.  The importance of shared understanding in delivering value, not just output.   The Future of AI & Humanity:  Will AI ever reach superintelligence, and what does that mean for humanity?  Why Shane believes AI could lead to a golden era rather than dystopia.  Ethical considerations and AI’s potential role as a guardian for humanity.  If this episode got you thinking as much as it did us, be sure to follow ThunderCast for more episodes that bring tech insights to life. 

Chris McGowan chats with Samuel Redmond, Director of the Adapt Group, about the conundrum many businesses face — how to innovate effectively while navigating the hype of AI. Sam unpacks the innovation dilemma and how AI, specifically Gen AI, can help overcome business challenges, streamline strategy, and drive value.  Discussion Points  The Innovation Dilemma  Why do organisations struggle with a blank slate when tackling innovation?  How bringing external perspectives and identifying the right problems to solve is crucial.  The AI Dilemma: Hype vs Reality  The pressure CEOs face from boards to implement AI across their businesses.  Why starting with a solution (AI) and hunting for a problem isn’t the answer.  Using AI to Solve the Innovation Problem  How businesses can use AI to rapidly analyse strategy, performance, and gaps.  The role of Gen AI in helping organisations critique rather than build from scratch.  Agile: The Path to Incremental Success  The importance of constant course corrections in agile methodologies.  Why organisations struggle with embracing agile fully.  The misconception of master plans and why small iterations matter  The Human Factor: Cultural and Behavioural Changes for Transformation  Why innovation requires a shift in culture, not just technology.  Why transformation efforts require a 10% productivity hit in the short term for long-term gain.  The hard truth: innovation as a ‘parasite’ on current productivity.  The cultural and behavioural changes needed for successful digital-led transformations. 

Chris McGowan sits down with Elsa Pahnke, a Learning and Development Consultant with a wealth of experience and insights on the value of mature workers in today’s fast-paced tech industry. They dive deep into the biases that plague hiring practices, explore the untapped potential of seasoned professionals, and discuss how the industry can pivot towards inclusivity and innovation.  Music and Career  How Elsa’s band, Storm Cellar, has evolved over 15 years.  The parallels between music and career evolution in the tech industry.  The importance of creativity and innovation across all walks of life.  The Reality of Ageism in Tech  Understanding the biases against mature workers in tech.  The economic impact of sidelining experienced professionals.  How media and societal perceptions contribute to ageism.  The Neuroscience of Experience  Elsa explains the benefits of neuroplasticity and the older brain’s ability to innovate.  Why mature workers can be as dynamic and creative as their younger counterparts.  The misconceptions about the learning capabilities of older employees.  Ageism’s Impact on the Global Economy  The staggering economic costs of ageism in the workforce.  Demographic changes in countries like Japan and China and their effects on the labour market.  How companies can benefit from hiring mature workers.  Breaking Down Barriers in Hiring  The role of AI and unconscious bias in recruitment processes.  Strategies for mature workers to navigate ageism and stay relevant.  How organisations can build more inclusive hiring practices.  Wisdom over Youth: The Strategic Advantage  Why intergenerational teams are more productive and innovative.  The value of historical knowledge and lived experiences in strategic decision-making.  Building a workforce that embraces both experience and fresh perspectives.  Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion! Subscribe to ThunderCast on your favourite podcast platform and follow us on LinkedIn to join the conversation. Share your thoughts on ageism in tech, and let’s work together to foster a more inclusive industry. 

Welcome to another electrifying episode of ThunderCast. Chris McGowan sits down with tech visionaries Anthony Perera (CDAO at La Trobe University) and Mal Wanstall (VP Data & AI at Cochlear) to talk about one of the most puzzling questions: Why does Australia lag in innovation?   They also explore the impact of cultural and political factors and the role of data and AI in driving future growth.   This episode is a must-listen for tech leaders and innovators looking to understand the unique challenges and opportunities in Australia's tech ecosystem.  Listen to learn more about:  1. The Innovation Dilemma in Australia  - Why does Australia struggle with innovation on a broad scale?  - The impact of a duopolistic market on competition and innovation.  - How political and immigration policies influence the innovation landscape.  2. Cultural Barriers to Innovation  - The risk-averse nature of Australian culture and its impact on business.  - Comparisons with more innovation-driven cultures around the world.  - The challenge of fostering a climate conducive to innovation in a comfortable society.  3. Data and AI in Innovation  - The current state and future potential of AI in driving innovation.  - Why AI returns might not be immediate but are essential for long-term growth.  - The dual role of data as both an enabler and a barrier to innovation.  4. The Role of Discomfort in Innovation  - How discomfort and risk are essential drivers of innovation.  - The importance of pushing boundaries and taking risks in tech development.  - Personal anecdotes on risk-taking and innovation from Anthony and Mal.  5. Future of Tech Leadership  - The evolving role of data in leadership and decision-making.  - Why future CEOs might need a strong background in data.  - The importance of data literacy across all organisational levels.    If you found this insightful, don’t forget to subscribe to ThunderCast for more charged-up insights from tech leaders. Follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation. Visit our website for additional resources and stay updated on upcoming episodes! 

In this episode of ThunderCast host Chris McGowan sits down with Greg Magill, the former Head of Digital Development and Digital Delivery at Westpac. Greg brings 18.5 years of experience from one of Australia’s oldest and largest banks to discuss the intricate dance between digital innovation and traditional business models.   They explore:  1. Innovation Roadblocks in Legacy Systems  Why do businesses struggle with integrating innovative digital assets?  The complexity of working with decades-old systems.  Strategies for minimal integration to prove the concept.  2. Simplifying the Digital Transformation  The pitfalls of simply digitising old processes.  The importance of using digital transformation as an opportunity to streamline and simplify.  How outdated policies can hinder innovation.  3. Mastering MVPs and Gradual Rollouts  The difference between MVP, pilot, and POC.  Why starting small and gradually scaling up is crucial in large organisations.  Managing internal stakeholders and building confidence through phased rollouts.  4. Balancing Internal and External Teams  The pros and cons of using internal teams versus external vendors.  The concept of ‘organ rejection’ and how to mitigate it.  Best practices for creating effective mixed teams.  5. The Future of Digital Identity and Data Privacy  The evolving landscape of digital identity and data privacy.  Recent high-profile data breaches and their implications.  The potential of digital identity ecosystems to streamline and secure processes.  Don't miss out on the wealth of insights from Greg. Subscribe to ThunderCast to stay updated on the latest episodes. Follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation. 

Chris McGowan and guest Stan Belikoff dive into the benefits of bringing together delivery and development teams. They explore how this integration can speed up processes, improve project quality, and the role of security in it all. It’s a conversation packed with insights on making teams work better together for more effective tech projects.   Some of the topics they explored:  The transformative power of integrating delivery and development teams.  The critical role of aligning engineering and architecture for project success.  The non-negotiable need to embed security from the get-go. 

Forget boring resolutions! This episode of ThunderCast is a hilarious and heartwarming ride with Chris McGowan and his special guests, Frankie and Mac McGowan (his kids!). Join them as they crack open fortune cookies and dish out unexpected wisdom for 2024. From the importance of quality hugs to the art of admiring without desiring, Frankie and Mac's insights are as sharp as their wit. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even shed a tear as they remind you that the best things in life are often the simplest. So ditch the self-help gurus and grab a fortune cookie — ThunderCast's got the advice you actually need to thrive in 2024. 

Get ready to dive into a conversation with Rowena Millward, author of "Uncomfortable Growth: Own Your Reinvention."   Chris McGowan chats with Rowena about her journey, from simplifying complex concepts for busy minds to navigating the ups and downs of leadership. Along the way, they explore the importance of vulnerability, the power of community, and the art of shifting from a life of constant striving to one of effortless ease.   This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to unlock their hidden potential, embrace the unexpected twists and turns of life, and discover their true calling.  Questions explored:  - How can we turn "uncomfortable growth" into an opportunity for personal and professional development?  - What are some practical strategies for simplifying complex information and making it actionable?  - How can leaders overcome isolation and build a supportive network? - What are some signs that you might be on the path to discovering your true calling?  - How can we harness the power of collective wisdom to accelerate our growth?  - What are some tangible ways to bring your whole self to work and create a more authentic professional experience? 

Join Chris McGowan and Mark McPherson as they unravel the artistry of historical storytelling and the gritty journey from idea inception to holding the published work in hand. Mark sheds light on the emotional toll, the necessity of brutal feedback, and the emotional investment required to birth a historical fiction masterpiece.   Discover how Mark's devotion to authenticity led him to tread the lands his characters roamed in the ancient world. It's a narrative of perseverance, the pursuit of authenticity, and the undeniable love for the old world that crafts a historical fiction author. 

Chris McGowan sits down with organisational strategy expert Martin Kearns once again to talk about the intricacies of OKRs, the challenges leaders face in aligning their teams, and driving results. From the pitfalls of emotional decision-making to the nuances of inside-out vs. outside-in approaches, this episode is a masterclass in leadership and strategy. Tune in to discover how to navigate the choppy waters of Q2 and beyond. 

Join Chris McGowan and the Director of Security Engineering at Vectra.ai Chris Fisher for an eye-opening episode of ThunderCast, where they delve deep into the world of cyber security. This episode focuses on Purple Teaming, a hands-on approach that simulates malicious attacks and penetration testing to fortify cyber defenses. Chris sheds light on how Vectra AI is revolutionising the way organisations identify and counter threats.  

In today's episode, Chris McGowan and Adam Long dissect the potent techniques of one of the FBI’s greatest negotiators, Chris Voss. From calibrated questions to data-driven decisions to tactical empathy, learn how to negotiate like your life depends on it — even if you’re just haggling over a contract. Whether you're a vendor, a client, or someone trying to navigate executive-level conversations, this episode provides invaluable insights into the methods that can help you succeed.

In this engaging episode of ThunderCast, co-founders Chris McGowan and Adam Long take you behind the scenes of their recent Book Club session with the ThunderLabs team. The book in focus? "Never Split the Difference" by former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss.   Together they explore the insights and wisdom distilled in the book, reflecting on the principles of tactical empathy and the nuances of intelligent negotiation. Drawing from their experience in the tech world and their passion for transforming lives, they dive into the relevance of these concepts in daily decision-making and business leadership.  

Chris McGowan sits down with Amr Abdoun, an expert in change management and one of ThunderLabs’ network amplifiers. With a diverse background ranging from software engineering to CTO roles, Amr brings a unique perspective to the table. They discuss the importance of showing competence through action, the power of quick results, and the art of bridging the gap between business needs and technology. Amr also emphasises the significance of recognising and nurturing talent within a team and how it leads to a stronger and more successful organisation. 

In this special episode, we're getting real about the rollercoaster ride that got us here. No corporate talk, just honest reflections on the past two years. From the thrilling victories to the downright terrifying moments, we're sharing it all with you.   Join the party as we toast to another year of growth.  

Cybersecurity and identity management experts Mike Gamble, Mark Belfanti, and Tony Jenner sit down with Chris McGowan and delve into the critical aspects of securing identities and protecting against cyber threats.   They discuss common vulnerabilities such as phishing, the need for multi-factor authentication, and the challenges faced by companies with legacy systems. The conversation explores the balance between security and innovation, emphasising the importance of a clear roadmap to implement effective security measures.   Join the conversation to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the strategies needed to protect identities in an interconnected world. 

Chris McGowan shines the spotlight on David Clark, Head of Software Engineering at Kitfit and one of ThunderLabs' brilliant network amplifiers. They dive into the world of customer success, software engineering, and the joys of tinkering with hardware. They also explore the fascinating realm of customer success platforms powered by AI and natural language processing.

Chris McGowan sits down with Mikkel Bergmann, a deep tech professional and one of ThunderLabs' network amplifiers. Mikkel shares his experiences as a developer and the challenges of balancing a product company with providing services. They delve into Mikkel's latest venture, a customer success platform integrated with AI, and discuss the vision behind it. 

In this episode of ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in Tech, Chris McGowan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Gus Jansen. They dive deep into the realms of stereotypes, preconceptions, and the way we learn, exploring how these factors impact personal growth and success.  Join them as they unravel the intricate connection between behavior, human condition, and the scientific method, shedding light on the fascinating world of psychology and its relevance in today's tech-driven landscape. They also delve into leadership, the idea of agreeableness and its impact on personal and professional relationships.  Throughout the episode, they emphasise the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and understanding emotions in fostering a thriving work environment. 

Is AI large language models (LLMs) at peak hype? Or is it ready for corporate applications? What can we learn from the founder of Shoes of Prey about its phenomenal rise and fall? And why would someone quit Google twice to do a startup? Find out this and more as Mike Knapp joins Adam Long in the ThunderCast studio.

Chris McGowan engages in a dynamic conversation with cybersecurity expert April George on the topic of identity access management (IAM) and its pivotal role in the future of digital transformation.   They explore IAM affects personalized experiences and took a sneak peek into the future of access technology. From biometrics to password alternatives and the challenges faced by less technically literate individuals, discover the importance of inclusive design, the role of identity solutions in business, and the benefits of partnering with specialised providers.   Hear April share her insights on successful transformation projects that prioritise people over technology, emphasizing the need for a deep understanding of user engagement. 

In this episode, Chris McGowan engages in a deep conversation with agile expert Martin Kearns about their experiences with the world of agile and its implications in corporate Australia. They discuss the challenges faced by organizations in adopting agile methodologies, the need for constant assessment and adaptation, and the misconceptions surrounding agile practices. They also explore the shifts they've made in their approach over the years, embracing vulnerability, and finding value in authenticity. Join them as they share valuable insights and discuss the importance of self-reflection and adaptation in a rapidly changing world.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of holocracy and its impact on organisational structure and decision-making processes. Our guest, Frank Cuiuli of 8Squad, shares his experiences and challenges of adopting a new way of thinking and breaking away from traditional operating methods.

In this episode, Chris McGowan talks to Dr Samba about  Data-cenric and human-centric AI AI’s  impact on decision-making The concept of "Homo Deus" by Yuval Noah Harari The concept of free will and its relationship with AI's capacity for imagination Humans’ curiosity and creativity that make us vital contributors to AI's development and improvement Efficiency and effectiveness in AI models

Welcome to the latest episode of ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in Tech, where we explore the latest trends and innovations in the tech industry. In this episode, Chris McGowan and Andrew Walker are joined by Claes Manssen, CIO of University of Sydney. They explore: - Project funding - Purpose - How the Agile Manifesto is more of a philosophy than a methodology - Agile is not a better approach to tracking project success - Skipping the scope document - The role of governance

In this episode, Fan Zhang, a brilliant data expert, shares invaluable insights on the power of data in today's business landscape. We explore why it's crucial for organisations to recognise the urgency to invest in data capabilities, the opportunities for data leaders, the potential for AI to revolutionise the hiring process, and so many more.

In today's episode, Chris chats with Stan Belikoff, the Vice President of Continuous Delivery at Cochlear. Tune in to know the 3 key factors for leaders, the significance of building momentum, the importance of building a psychologically safe environment at work, and the evolving role of business analysts, and so many more.

In this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan is joined by Dan Canham of Tomorrow Strategy Co. They explore the fascinating realm of entrepreneurialism, venturing, and funding. Our guest, Dan, shares his personal experience as a founder, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared wealth in creating successful businesses. They also discuss the power of spotting game-changing innovations and clever commercial models.

In today's episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan and Andrew Walker explore purpose and autonomy in teams that deliver digital solutions. Visit www.thunderlabs.com.au/blog for more charged-up insights on tech and digital solutions.

Chris McGowan speaks with Andrew Walker, CTO at ThunderLabs, about the governance model that lets enterprises deliver tech at speed (and scale). It's the process behind 300+ rapid digital builds at Monash University, Google, iag, Ausgrid, minda, Victoria State Government, and many more.