Podcast
Tech Leader Talk
Hosted by Steve Sponseller · EN
The Tech Leader Talk podcast brings together successful technology company leaders, entrepreneurs, and experts from around the technology industry to share successes, challenges, and examples of what's working now to build strong tech companies.
Tune in each week as Steve Sponseller interviews a new leader in the tech world.
30episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Innovation Leadership at IBM – Nick Donofrio
1w ago00:37:31Tap to summarizeAre you moving fast enough? On today's episode, I have a wonderful discussion with Nick Donofrio, who has spent most of his life as a technology leader. Although Nick had countless accomplishments, he wonders if he was moving fast enough. Nick worked in various roles at IBM for 44 years. During that time, he redefined innovation at IBM and initiated worldwide collaboration for the company. Nick was the first Executive Vice President of Innovation and Technology at IBM. And he was named one of Business Week's 25 top innovation champions. Nick is the author of the book: If Nothing Changes, Nothing Changes. The book discusses how Nick and others led IBM's global technical team. During our discussion, Nick talks about how Innovation played an important role in IBM's transformation during his 44 years at the company. I'm sure you will enjoy this discussion (and get some tips for your own business, like I did) as Nick shares his knowledge and experiences during his many years at IBM. "Transforming IBM into an innovation company was all about value creation." – Nick Donofrio Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast: - How IBM was transformed into an innovation company - Helping your team members be more successful - The role of Nick's mom in his career Nick's Book: If Nothing Changes, Nothing Changes: https://www.amazon.com/If-Nothing-Changes-Donofrio-Story/dp/1544531346 Connect with Nick Donofrio: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-donofrio-7588609/ Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's latest book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →Combining Blockchain with Serverless Infrastructures – Tim Wagner
2w ago00:33:48Tap to summarizeIs your company leveraging the latest data sharing and data storage technologies? On today's episode, I am talking with Tim Wagner. Tim is the CEO of Vendia, which provides a platform that combines next generation blockchain with a serverless infrastructure. Tim is passionate about growing teams within organizations and innovating problems related to data sharing. He also has technical knowledge in programming languages, modern databases, and algorithm design. On today's episode, Tim and I discuss the power of combining serverless architectures with blockchain technologies. We also discuss the value of transparency in your organization and growing strong teams. "If you're going to build a blockchain technology that services millions of customers, you need access to enough silicon to do that." – Tim Wagner Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast: - Current data sharing and data storage trends - The importance of transparency in your business - Tips for growing strong teams - The power of combining blockchain with serverless infrastructures - The growth of multi-cloud systems Connect with Tim Wagner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timawagner/ Website: https://www.vendia.net/ Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's latest book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →B2B Marketing - The War Between Art & Science – Camela Thompson
3w ago00:31:22Tap to summarizeOn this episode, I talk with Camela Thompson, who is a B2B thought leader, an entrepreneur, a podcaster, and an author. Camela and I discuss B2B marketing. In particular, Camela explains "The War Between Art & Science" – which includes issues related to digital marketing in today's world. We also talk about the ability to track and analyze results in different types of marketing. "We now have the ability to measure the impact of the creative item we're testing." – Camela Thompson Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast: - How to solve the conflict between art and science in marketing - A common website problem you can easily fix in a few minutes - How Camela's background in data has helped her succeed as a marketer - B2B priorities for tech companies - Modifying your website pages based on who is viewing the content Resources: The Revenue Marketing Report Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-revenue-marketing-report/id1568810136 Book: Non-Violent Communication by Marshall Rosenberg (https://www.nonviolentcommunication.com/product/nvc/) Connect with Camela Thompson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camela-thompson/ Website: https://www.camelathompsoncreative.com/ Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's latest book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →Creating an Authentic Brand that Attracts Customers – Kate DiLeo
Apr 1600:33:25Tap to summarizeOn this episode, I have a valuable conversation with Kate DiLeo about her Brand Strategy Process for technology companies. Kate believes that a brand is the path of least resistance to revenue and she's passionate about helping organizations create common ground with their customers. She has worked with over 200 companies across 20 sectors, helping them create authentic brands that attract more customers. "Your brand is the path of least resistance to revenue." – Kate DiLeo Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast: - How Kate's Brand Strategy Process is different from other approaches - Learn a process that quickly helps companies articulate who they are, why they're different, and how to solve their customer's problems - How a brand can help technology companies (especially startups and small tech companies) - When you should start thinking about a brand strategy Connect with Kate: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katedileo/ Website: https://katedileo.com/ Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's latest book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →Solving Real Problems and Niching Down – Dan Fuller
Apr 900:35:27Tap to summarizeIf you are enjoying the Tech Leader Talk podcast, can you do me a favor and share it with one or two friends who might enjoy the content? This will increase the number of podcast listeners, which helps make a bigger impact in the tech industry. Thanks for your help. When growing a tech business, you must focus on solving real problems, niching down, and building your network. Today, I'm discussing those issues with Dan Fuller, who has 15 years of experience in the unmanned systems industry (such as drones) and more than two decades in aerospace, semiconductors, and advanced technology. During our conversation, Dan explains why it's important for tech startups to niche down and go deep. He also talks about how his curiosity for solving real-world problems led him from the corporate world into entrepreneurship. Dan discusses the rapid advancement in drone technology and the impact it's having on various industries. He shares insights on making decisions in rapidly changing technology environments. Dan and I also talk about the importance of identifying and protecting inventions, which includes designing a patent strategy for your company. I'm sure you will get some valuable insights from this conversation with Dan that you can apply in your own organization. Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast: - Avoiding hype and solving real problems - Patent strategies for tech startups - Technology as a tool, not an end in itself - The value of relationships and community - Decision-making in rapidly changing technology environments Resource: Dan's "Beyond the Fog" newsletter on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/beyond-the-fog-7169134803827580928/ Connect with Dan Fuller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieldfuller/ Website: https://clarifyconsultingllc.com/ Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →The Power of the Space Mindset – Shelli Brunswick
Apr 200:37:03Tap to summarizeSpace is not just rockets – it's a mindset for leadership, strategy, and collaboration across borders and industries. On today's episode, I have the pleasure of talking with Shelli Brunswick, who will be discussing the power of the space mindset. Shelli is an experienced leader in the space industry with previous roles in the military and with the Space Foundation. Today she is the CEO and founder of SB Global, LLC. During our conversation, Shelli discusses the rapidly evolving landscape of technology and space – and talks about the "space mindset." She also talks about her latest book "What's Space Got to Do with It? An Interstellar Guide to Success." This book is a valuable resource for anyone looking for a blueprint to succeed in in the space industry – from students to executives. Shelli also shares insights from launching her own company and advising entrepreneurs and organizations throughout the world. Shelli explains that today's leaders must see the big picture and foster global collaboration. Whether you're interested in space, technology, entrepreneurship, or fascinated by the future of leadership, you will love this conversation with Shelli. Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast: - Rapid evolution of the space industry - Global and cross-sector collaboration - Bridging academia, industry, and government - Collaboration drives innovation - Leadership, awareness, access, and action Resource: Shelli's Latest Book: What's Space Got to Do with It? An Interstellar Guide to Success Link to Shelli's book: https://www.amazon.com/Whats-Space-Got-Do-Interstellar/dp/B0FTZMGV77 Connect with Shelli Brunswick: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellibrunswick/ Website: https://shelli-brunswick.com/ Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →Revolutionizing Energy Storage – Gunjan Agarwal
Mar 2600:26:58Tap to summarizeToday I'm talking with Gunjan Agarwal, who is leading a company at the forefront of battery innovation. Gunjan is the CEO of Zenthos Energy and shares insights on overcoming challenges in product development, the impact of strong communication, and the importance of hands-on leadership in technology startups. On today's episode, Gunjan discusses her childhood fascination with technology and robotics and talks about her work experience with Intel, Tesla, and Rivian. Those experiences taught her valuable lessons during important product launches that shaped her approach to leadership and innovation. Gunjan also talks about exciting applications in aerospace and data centers. She shares about her interest in the potential of aluminum batteries and creating space with her methods for leading teams through uncertainty. Whether you're a product developer, startup founder, or just passionate about cutting-edge energy technology, this episode has plenty of practical insights and inspiration. Discussed on this episode: - Navigating pivotal technology transitions - Leadership insights for innovation success - Working through ambiguities - Innovating with Aluminum Batteries - CEO leadership insights Connect with Gunjan Agarwal: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/agarwalg/ Website: https://www.zenthosenergy.com/ Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →Tracking All of Your Critical Inventions – Steve Sponseller
Mar 1900:09:55Tap to summarizeOn this episode of the Tech Leader Talk podcast, I'm continuing the discussion of my 7-Step system that's helped dozens of tech companies build robust patent strategies. Today I will be discussing the third step in that system, which is important to ensure that your million dollar inventions don't slip through the cracks. Step 3 that I'm talking about today is important after an invention has been identified by someone in your organization. Once an invention is identified, it's critical to keep track of that invention as it's evaluated and possibly approved for filing a patent application. If you identify an invention, but then lose track of it, you may be losing the opportunity to protect valuable inventions. This episode discusses encouraging team members to use an Invention Disclosure Form to submit inventions. I also describe what to include in an Invention Disclosure Form and how to track submitted forms. Steve's book You can get a copy of Steve's book, Cracking the Patent Code, through Amazon (Paperback or Kindle) at: https://www.amazon.com/Cracking-Patent-Code-Competitive-Inventions/dp/B08HQ92X1D You can also download a free PDF copy of the book at: https://stevesponseller.com/book/ Questions? If you have any questions about building a robust patent strategy for your company, contact me to schedule a complimentary call. Contact me via email: Steve@SteveSponseller.com Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of my latest book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover my proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →Transforming Your Business with Digital Twins – Brenda Discher
Mar 1200:33:23Tap to summarizeAre you using digital twins to improve your business? If not, today's interview will help you understand how to get started. On this episode, I'm talking with Brenda Discher. Brenda is a Senior Vice President of Business Strategy & Marketing at Siemens Digital Industries Software. She has more than 20 years of business experience and is currently empowering companies of all sizes to create and leverage digital twins to enable a digital enterprise. During our conversation, Brenda explains why digital twins are important to technology companies. She also discusses many situations and industries that have successfully used digital twin technology. Brenda shares her thoughts about how this technology can improve efficiency, optimize product development, and improve manufacturing processes. Brenda also shares her insights regarding the use of digital twins to support sustainability, such as with farming to optimize water and fertilizer usage. I know you will enjoy our conversation and get some valuable tips to use in your own business. "A digital twin is a virtual digital representation of something in the physical world." – Brenda Discher Today on the Tech Leader Talk podcast: - Successful examples of digital twin technology - Why tech companies need to understand digital twins - The power of artificial intelligence and digital twins - How digital twins improve efficiency and optimize product development - Getting started with digital twin technology Connect with Brenda Discher: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendadischer/ Website: https://siemens.com Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's latest book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
Transcribe →Space Technology and Deep Sea Diving – Hiro Hirokazu
Mar 500:31:56Tap to summarizeHave you ever thought about the similarities between a spacewalk and deep sea diving? My guest on this episode is Hiro Hirokazu – he will be discussing these similarities and sharing many other space-related insights. Hiro is the CEO of Warpspace USA, which is an innovative space technology company. He also helps other organizations develop space solutions using his expertise in business strategy, satellite data utilization, and spaceport operations. Hiro discusses recent developments in optical satellite communication systems. He also shares insights related to leveraging existing company capabilities to construct space business strategies. Hiro talks about unique aspects of space industry research and development that differ from terrestrial sectors. He also shares his thoughts on the importance of following your passion. I'm sure you will enjoy this conversation and get some insights that can be useful in your own business. Discussed on this episode: - The Future of Optical Satellite Communications - Space Business Strategies - Mastering Work-Life Balance - Strategies for Entering the Space Sector - A Passion for Underwater Exploration Connect with Hiro Hirokazu: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hirokazu-m-29aa1510a/ Website: https://warpspace.jp/home-en Get a copy of Steve's one-sheet summary for Building a Robust Patent Strategy. Send an email to: steve@stevesponseller.com Thanks for listening! Be sure to get your free copy of Steve's book, Cracking the Patent Code, and discover his proven system for identifying and protecting your most valuable inventions. Get the book at https://stevesponseller.com/book.
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