The Next Thing Now Podcast

The Future of Software EngineeringWhat is actually changing inside engineering teams?In this episode of The Next Thing Now, Rob Borley is joined by Gordon Lucas, Group Software Engineering Director at PureGym, to explore how AI is really impacting software engineering.Away from the hype and headlines, this is a grounded conversation about what is happening inside real teams today.While AI tools promise dramatic productivity gains, most engineering organisations are still working through a much messier reality. Backlogs still exist. Delivery pressure has not changed. And the day-to-day experience of engineers is evolving in ways that are as human as they are technical.We explore:Why AI has not yet transformed engineering teams in the way people expectedThe growing tension between code as craft and code as outputHow the role of the software engineer is shifting towards orchestration and higher-level thinkingThe leadership challenge of taking teams through rapid, uncertain changeWhether teams will get smaller, or simply produce moreWhat happens to junior engineers in an AI-driven worldWhy decision-making, not coding, is becoming the real bottleneckThis is is a conversation about people, pressure, and the future shape of the profession.If you are a CIO, CTO, Head of Engineering, or product leader trying to make sense of AI in your organisation, this episode will help you think more clearly about what actually matters next.

The Reality of AI in Critical National InfrastructureCan AI be trusted where failure isn’t an option?In this episode, we’re joined by Simon Ayley, Director of Strategic Growth Partnerships at WRC. Drawing on 30+ years of global industry experience, we explore what AI actually looks like inside critical national infrastructure.From regulated industries to complex operational environments, AI is no longer theoretical. It is already being tested, challenged, and in some cases embedded into systems that millions of people rely on every day.We discuss:Why innovation inside large, regulated organisations is fundamentally differentThe tension between speed, safety, and accountabilityWhat it really takes to move from experimentation to productionHow leaders should think about risk, regulation, and responsibility in an AI-driven worldIf you are responsible for technology, operations, or strategy in a complex environment, this is a conversation you need to hear.

What happens to higher education when knowledge becomes instantly accessible, essays can be generated on demand, and AI starts to challenge the very basis of assessment?In this episode of The Next Thing Now, Rob Borley, Kevin Smith and Simon Brookes explore the impact of AI on higher education and ask a deeper question: what is university actually for in an age of large language models?The conversation looks at the future of degrees, the changing value of knowledge, the limits of traditional coursework, and why judgment, discernment and the application of knowledge may matter more than ever.This is not a discussion about hype. It is a serious look at what happens when one of society’s most established institutions is forced to rethink its role.In this episode:Will AI change university forever?Can essays still prove learning?What becomes valuable when knowledge is abundant?Why human judgment may matter more in an AI-shaped worldWhat higher education may need to become nextWatch now and join the conversation.#AI #HigherEducation #University #EdTech #FutureOfWork #TheNextThingNow #Dootrix #ArtificialIntelligence #Education Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Agents Are Building Software NowA year ago, AI was helping engineers write code.Now, agents are building real enterprise software.In this episode of The Next Thing Now, we unpack what has changed and why it matters. This is not another conversation about copilots or productivity boosts. This is about agentic platforms that can reason over requirements, generate architecture, write services, refactor systems, and ship meaningful functionality with minimal human intervention.But there is a catch.Agents can write code. They do not carry accountability.We explore:The shift from AI coding assistant to agentic executionWhy complex systems still require architectural judgementHow senior engineers are moving from builders to orchestratorsWhat this means for CIOs and technology leaders under pressureWhy enterprise software delivery is about to be structurally redefinedIf you are a CIO, CTO, Engineering Director, or product leader trying to understand what agentic development really means in production, this conversation is for you.This is not theory. It is based on real experimentation inside live environments.Agents are building software now. The question is whether you are ready to orchestrate them.Subscribe for more conversations at the intersection of emerging technology, disruptive business models, and the leaders shaping what comes next. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The high performance expert who has coached leadership teams in some of the biggest organisations on the planet, now questioning whether performance still means what we think it does.For more than 30 years, Matt Barker has worked with leaders, teams, and individuals at moments of pressure, transition, and change, helping humans perform better as their environment shifts around them.That experience matters now more than ever. As non-human entities enter the workplace, Matt brings a rare lens. Deep expertise in human performance, combined with a clear-eyed view of how machines are reshaping effort, value, and work itself.This conversation isn’t about productivity or tools. It’s about what high performance means after humans stop being the limiting factor. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI Has a Constitution Now. What Does That Mean for Us?This week, Rob and Kev unpack one of the strangest and most revealing signals in AI right now.Anthropic has published a “constitution” for Claude. Not internal policy. Not developer guidelines. A document written for the AI itself, explaining the values it is expected to understand and reason from.That raises an uncomfortable question.Why would an AI need a constitution at all?In this episode, we explore:What it means when AI companies talk about “non-human entities”The tension between AI constitutions and emerging EU regulationWhy agentic systems are changing how we work, not just what we buildThe shift from asking AI questions to assigning it workWhether this is a technical decision, a cultural signal, or bothThis is not a debate about consciousness or sci-fi futures.It’s about how language, mental models, and responsibility are already changing as AI moves from tool to actor.If you’re working with AI, building products, or making decisions about how these systems are used in the real world, this conversation matters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OFFICIAL: AGI by 2030!Is this the moment everything quietly changed?In this episode of The Next Thing Now, we unpack the restructure of OpenAI, the reworked AGI clause with Microsoft, and why the date 2030 suddenly matters far more than most people realise.This is not about hype. It’s about incentives, contracts, infrastructure, and the uncomfortable signals buried in plain sight.We explore:Why OpenAI and Microsoft have formally planned for an AGI endgameWhat the AGI clause really means and why independent verification changes everythingWhy AI is no longer just a product decision but an infrastructure raceHow agents, hardware, and energy reshape the future of workWhat leaders are missing while focusing on copilots and promptsIf you think AGI is a distant theoretical debate, this conversation may change your mind.The shift is not coming loudly. It’s arriving through contracts, compute, and quiet decisions that lock in the next decade.Pay attention. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Most companies talk confidently about net zero — but few can prove it. In this episode of The Next Thing Now, Rob and Kev sit down with Owen from Fynlo AI to explore one of the biggest hidden challenges in sustainability: the accuracy of carbon reporting.From freight fleets to finance teams, the data behind emissions reporting is often guesswork. Owen explains why this matters, how inaccurate data undermines trust, and what his team is doing to close the gap with AI-powered precision tools.If you care about sustainability, data integrity, or how AI can be used for real-world impact, this conversation is for you.In this episode:Why most carbon output reporting is wrongHow inaccuracy erodes business credibilityThe role of AI in improving emissions measurementWhy “good enough” data isn’t good enough anymoreWatch now to learn how accuracy can become your most valuable sustainability strategy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

OpenAI’s Agentic Commerce Protocol (ACP) signals the next evolution of e-commerce, replacing user interfaces with intelligent, intent-driven agents. e013 The Next Thing Now Podcast.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How AI Agents Are Transforming Financial Services | ProveIt x DootrixIn this episode, we speak with Adrian Defta, founder and CEO of ProveIt, about how AI agents are revolutionising financial services—starting with underserved communities.Adrian shares the journey behind ProveIt, a bootstrapped startup helping UK-based Romanians navigate financial complaints and reclaim lost money. What began as a TikTok experiment quickly turned into a hands-on support service, and now, with the help of Dootrix and the Agentic Incubator, it's evolving into an AI-powered system using intelligent agents to scale trust, compliance, and customer support.🔍 Topics Covered:The origins of ProveIt and the problem it solvesWhy traditional automation hits a ceiling in financial servicesHow agentic AI (like Personal Advisors and Sentinels) work in practiceUsing AI to empower users, not replace themWhat every financial services provider can learn from this model🎧 Whether you're a fintech founder, product leader, or just AI-curious, this is a must-watch on the future of intelligent automation in regulated industries.📌 Learn more: ProveIt: https://proveitweb.co.uk Adrian Defta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriandefta Dootrix: https://dootrix.com#AgenticAI #FinancialServices #Startups #ProveIt #AIForGood #DigitalTransformation #CustomerSupport #AIagents #Dootrix #AgenticIncubator #AIinFS Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ Episode 011 – Hope, Hype, and Heating Engineers: Agentic AI Gets RealIn this episode of The Next Thing Now, Rob and Kev dive deep into the maturing world of agentic AI — and the quietly powerful new standard driving it: MCP.We explore:Why Canva’s new Claude-powered integration might be the first real MCP breakthroughWhat MCP actually is (with a heating engineer analogy you won’t forget)Why the hype cycle has moved on, but the real impact is just beginningHow OpenAI’s $3B Windsurf deal fell apart — and what Google’s surprise move means for the agentic ecosystemPlus, a healthy dose of healthy cynicism on Apple’s AI intentions and why everyone’s talking “agentic” now.Whether you're a product leader, a dev, or just trying to keep up, this is the episode to understand the infrastructure that might define the next decade of software.🧠 No fluff. Just insight, laughs, and the odd Matrix reference. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The conversation delves into the recent redundancies at Microsoft, exploring the implications of AI integration in the workplace and the evolving dynamics of job roles. The discussion highlights the shift towards efficiency and productivity through AI, the future of work, and the challenges posed by ambient computing and SaaS products. Additionally, the conversation touches on the intersection of AI and human cognition, as well as the ongoing copyright issues related to AI training and content creation in the digital economy. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Apple's recent AI whitepaper caused a stir, but did it reveal anything new? We break down what it means, what it missed, and why the future may belong to agents and automation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Kevin and Rob delve into the recent acquisition of Johnny Ive's design company by OpenAI, exploring the implications of this move in the context of AI technology and design. They discuss the potential dystopian future of AI, the rise of wearable technology, and the evolving expectations surrounding AI development. The conversation highlights the challenges and adaptations users face as they navigate the rapidly changing landscape of AI tools and their applications. In this conversation, Kevin and Rob explore the evolving landscape of AI adoption and its implications for the workforce. They discuss the challenges organisations face in integrating AI technologies, the potential transformation of job roles, and the importance of adapting interview techniques to identify candidates who can thrive in an AI-centric environment. The discussion also touches on the quest for enhanced virtual presence in remote interactions, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to improve engagement and collaboration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Next Thing Now Podcast, Ang McKenna, an award-winning head of people and culture, shares her journey in HR and the evolving landscape of workplace culture. She discusses the importance of mental health, the shift from traditional HR to a people-centric approach, and the impact of AI on employee anxiety and job security. Ang emphasises the need for organisations to build trust, adapt to generational differences, and foster resilience among employees. The conversation also explores the challenges of remote work, the role of leadership in navigating change, and the future of work in a technology-driven environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Rob details his AI lead weekend trip. He just did as he was told. And it was an interesting experience!Rob and Kev explore the nature of AI as a predictive tool, drawing parallels between AI behaviour and human cognition. What does it mean as the AI enters the era of experience. They discuss the potential for AI to learn and adapt like humans, the challenges of integrating AI into organisations, and the critical role of leadership in navigating these changes. The conversation emphasises the importance of individual responsibility in adapting to the rapidly changing technological environment. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rob Borley and Kevin Smith discuss the evolution of software development. They explore the complexities of traditional software engineering, the importance of maintaining quality and safety in software, and the balance between rapid prototyping and thorough development. Thinking fast, build slow. This is Vibe Coding for grown-ups. This is how professional should use the new wave of tools and techniques. And what to avoid.The discussion also touches on the need for new training approaches for developers, the integration of AI in software development, and the rapid pace of technological change. The conversation also explores the dual nature of OpenAI, discussing its evolution from a research-focused organisation to a commercial entity. The speakers delve into the complexities of OpenAI's model naming conventions, the emergence of agentic models, and the impact of AI on creativity and development.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Kevin Smith and Rob Borley discuss the rapid advancements in AI technologies, focusing on the emergence of new standards such as MCP and A2A, and the implications of fine-tuning AI models with LoRA. They emphasise the urgency for businesses to adopt AI technologies, likening it to the transformative impact of the internet and electricity. The discussion also highlights the challenges organisations face in adapting to these changes and the importance of taking employees on the journey of AI integration. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Rob Borley and Kevin Smith explore the rapid advancements in AI. They discuss the implications of these technologies for creativity, the challenges faced by organisations in adopting AI, and the evolving role of CIOs in navigating these changes. The conversation highlights the tension between innovation and legacy systems, emphasising the importance of governance and the human element in technology adoption. They discuss the implications of AI on various sectors, particularly focusing on the fear of technological disruption, the impact on employment, and the integration of AI within media companies. They explore challenges faced by established companies like Apple in adapting to AI advancements, and the potential future of consumer technology as AI continues to evolve. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Rob and Kevin delve into the evolving landscape of AI, particularly focusing on image generation, the importance of prompt quality, and the emergence of specialised AI tools. They share personal experiences with various AI models, discussing their strengths and limitations, and explore the future of AI in creative fields. Rob and Kevin discuss the evolution of AI writing models, focusing on their unique characteristics and capabilities. They explore the importance of memory in AI interactions, how it shapes user relationships, and the implications for data privacy. The concept of digital doppelgangers is introduced, highlighting the potential for AI to act on behalf of users. The discussion also touches on the economics of personal AI ownership and the definition of agents in AI, emphasising the need for clarity in understanding their roles in software development. The implications of AI in web development, particularly focusing on the ability to clone websites using AI agents are discussed. They explore the ethical concerns surrounding AI-generated content and the potential for scams. The discussion also touches on emerging AI tools, the evolution of AI in public, and the importance of establishing standards in AI development. They conclude by examining the competitive landscape of AI models and the future of AI integration into everyday applications. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Rob Borley and Kev Smith discuss the rapid advancements in technology. They explore how AI tools are transforming the workforce, the implications of quantum breakthroughs, and the emergence of new models like diffusion language models and AI agents. The discussion highlights the convergence of various technologies and the challenges and opportunities they present for the future. In this conversation, Rob and Kev explore the fascinating world of autonomous agents and their implications for the future of work. They discuss the rise of AI startups leveraging these technologies, the impact on knowledge workers, and the challenges posed by shadow IT and citizen developers. The conversation also delves into the evolution of AI reasoning and the need for a balance between fast and slow thinking in AI systems.And of course they teach AI to play Rock, Paper, Scissors Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.