Podcast
Keeping IT Real | Technology | Business
Hosted by vCom Solutions · EN
Welcome to the original Keeping IT Real podcast. IT is not what it used to be. This podcast features honest and transparent conversations about what it takes to manage corporate technology and expenses today. Each episode, listen to true and personal stories from IT professionals who are working hard to make sure their business stays connected and competitive.
Note: Previously known as Braindrop.
Topics:
IT Leadership
IT Management
IT Managed Services
IT Operations
IT Trends
AI
Telecom, Mobile, Cloud
Managed Mobility Services
Telecom Expense Management
Digital Transformation
Communications
20episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
S3E33 - Andy Sen, CTO of AppDirect
Feb 1000:32:18Tap to summarizeWatch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/tRBHk70ObscOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Andy Sen, the CTO of AppDirect. They discuss Andy’s career journey in IT, from starting at IBM to leading technological innovations at AppDirect. They talk about into the rapid evolution of AI, its applications in various business functions, the importance of visibility and supervision in AI projects, and the future impact of AI on organizational efficiency.You can find Andy Sen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/senandy/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E32 - Mari Shankar, CTO of Telarus
Dec 400:28:27Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Mari Shankar, the CTO at Telarus. They discuss the challenges of data management, the importance of clean and reliable data for the success of technological innovations, and the role of AI in transforming tech projects.You can find Mari Shankar here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marishankar/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E31 - Nayan Patel, SVP of Transformation and Technology
Aug 500:30:18Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Nayan Patel, the Senior Vice President of Transformation and Technology at FinThrive and former hospital CIO. Nayan shares his journey into IT, starting from a high school car audio project, to obtaining a Master's in Electrical Engineering, and eventually an MBA to pivot towards a business-oriented approach. They discuss the importance of continuous learning, adaptation to rapid technological changes, and effective communication in complex IT environments. Nayan emphasizes the value of reading, application rationalization, and leveraging AI for future advancements in IT management.You can find Nayan Patel here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nayandpatel/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E30 - Murali Rajagopalan, Senior IT Director
Jul 2200:33:17Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Murali Rajagopalan a Senior IT Director. Murali shares his lifelong journey in IT, starting from reading tech books inspired by his father, to pursuing a PhD driven by the resurgence of AI. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, curiosity, and collaboration in both business and personal growth. He also discusses the integration of business needs with technology, his teaching philosophy, and the significance of maintaining an open mindset. Murali's insights offer valuable lessons for IT professionals and leaders aiming to navigate and thrive in the fast-evolving tech landscape.You can find Murali Rajagopalan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/murali-r-2963724/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E29 - Duane Massie, Executive Vice President of Information Technology
Jul 800:35:09Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Duane Massie, Executive Vice President of Information Technology, CIO, and CISO. With a career spanning from the early days of AOL to modern IT strategies, Duane shares his unique journey, emphasizing the importance of bridging tech and business. He discusses the challenges of acquisitions, change management, the evolution of tech infrastructure, and the critical role of data-driven decision-making in modernizing operations. Duane also offers insights on prioritizing IT initiatives, fostering innovation, and preparing for the future of technology.You can find Duane Massie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duane-massie-8407976/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E28 - Taruna Rai, VP of IT at Articulate
Jun 2400:36:37Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Taruna Rai, a VP of IT. Taruna discusses her non-traditional path into IT, emphasizing her passion for connecting technology to business outcomes. She sheds light on the evolving role of IT from being an order taker to a strategic business partner, and the importance of maintaining a growth mindset in a fast-paced industry. Taruna also touches on the significance of building credibility within teams and leveraging IT's unique end-to-end perspective for organizational success.You can find Taruna Rai here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarunarai/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E27 - Elliott Adler, Director of IT at MedRite Urgent Care
Jun 1000:33:09Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Elliott Adler, the Director of IT at MedRite Urgent Care. Elliott shares his journey into the IT world, from childhood fascination to leading digital transformations in healthcare. The discussion covers the evolution of technology, the challenges of maintaining cybersecurity, and the importance of communication and teamwork. Elliott reveals how his team balances innovation and security to enhance patient care and streamline operations.You can find Elliott Adler here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliottadler/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E26 - Gavin Hupp, VP of Technology
May 2700:34:37Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Gavin Hupp, a VP of Technology. Gavin shares his unconventional journey from studying clinical exercise physiology to becoming a seasoned technology executive. He highlights his experience in various roles, from running an e-commerce business to leading digital transformations at companies like Denny's, PetSmart, and now United Parks and Resorts (SeaWorld). Gavin provides a deep dive into his successes, challenges, and the significant lessons learned while integrating technology with business strategy to enhance customer experience, with a focus on the critical role of data.You can find Gavin Hupp here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gavinhupp/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E25 - Obinna Amalu, Senior Director of IT Ops and Infrastructure at Slalom
May 13, 202500:35:25Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Obinna Amalu, the Senior Director of IT Ops and Infrastructure at Slalom. Obinna, who has over 20 years of experience focusing on edge computing, AI, and team empowerment, shares his journey into IT, starting from helping his mother’s computer training business to significant roles in various sectors in the United States. He discusses the excitement and concerns of advancements in technology, the importance of upskilling, and the human-centric approach to managing IT in a fast-paced environment. Obinna emphasizes the value of continuous learning and collaboration to foster innovation, navigate challenges, and drive productivity in IT.You can find Obinna Amalu here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karl-obinna-amalu/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →
S3E24 - Nicholi Gray, IT Service Director at Nikola Motor Company
Apr 29, 202500:33:14Tap to summarizeOn this episode of Keeping IT Real, Jethro Castillo is joined by Nicholi Gray, the IT Service Director at Nikola Motor Company. Nicholi shares his unique journey into the world of IT, from helping his father's business to pivotal roles at Romeo Power and Nikola. He discusses the excitement and challenges of constant change in the tech industry, the importance of adaptability, and the human side of managing technology. Nicholi highlights key projects, the value of user experience, and the shift from traditional IT roles to more dynamic, communicative positions.You can find Nicholi Gray here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholi-gray-329b83108/To learn more about vCom and our IT spend and lifecycle management solutions visit https://vcomsolutions.com.LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/vcom-solutionsTwitter: https://twitter.com/vComSolutionsInstagram: https://instagram.com/vcomsolutionsFacebook: https://facebook.com/vcomsolutionsPodcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/vcomsolutions
Transcribe →