Holly Hon , Senior Vice President of Operations at Entertainment Partners, joins David Wright to explore how strategic execution, data-driven leadership and cross-functional collaboration shape long-term success. Holly shares lessons from transforming services into scalable product organizations, building AI readiness through data governance and advocating for enterprise-wide change — all with a mindset rooted in continuous learning and purposeful leadership. Key Takeaways: (04:22) Good ideas do...
Jun 30, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 115
Host David Wright talks to Breno Gentil , Strategic Advisor of C.I.KNOW , whose previous roles include Global CTO of British American Tobacco and Senior Director of Digital and Technology at Heineken. Breno shares lessons from his global career leading transformation across consumer goods and explains why simplifying tech is core to IT leadership today. From AI hype to sailing analogies, this conversation dives into the people-centered realities behind digital progress. Key Takeaways: (06:12) Pe...
Jun 08, 2025•41 min•Season 1Ep. 114
Ramesh Razdan , Global CIO/CTO of Bain & Company , joins David Wright to share how a foundation of humility, gratitude and servant leadership has shaped his journey from rural Kashmir to leading global technology transformation. They discuss managing change at scale, fostering collaboration across geographies and functions and how emerging technologies like AI can unlock personalized solutions in areas like healthcare. Key Takeaways: (03:10) Leaders must prioritize their physical and mental ...
May 12, 2025•33 min•Season 1Ep. 113
A technologist who embraces business leadership, prioritizes humility over ego and learns to truly let go can drive lasting transformation. Brad Sexton , Chief Information Officer of Terrible's , joins David Wright to talk about leadership, innovation and the realities of driving digital transformation in a diverse, fast-paced organization. Brad shares lessons learned from a career spanning government, hospitality and retail, offering practical insights on team empowerment and the importance of ...
Apr 27, 2025•56 min•Season 1Ep. 112
This week, David Wright is joined by Dr. Aalpen Patel , Chief Clinical and Innovation Officer of MedQuest Associates . Dr. Patel shares insights on innovation in healthcare, particularly in radiology, and discusses his journey from engineering to medicine. Dr. Patel emphasizes the importance of innovation in addressing healthcare challenges. Key Takeaways: (04:06) Removing the word "impossible" from your mindset and focusing on finding solutions rather than obstacles. (05:53) Overcoming challeng...
Mar 30, 2025•34 min•Season 1Ep. 111
Sandra Powell-Elliott , Chief Innovation and Commercialization Officer at Hackensack Meridian Health , joins David Wright to discuss the intersection of innovation, AI, and commercialization in healthcare. With a background spanning administration, business strategy, and technology adoption, she shares insights on how health systems can embrace automation, foster an innovation-driven culture, and transform care delivery. Key Takeaways: (03:33) Diving into a problem makes finding solutions easier...
Mar 23, 2025•43 min•Season 1Ep. 110
This week, David Wright is joined by Farnaz Ronaghi , Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer at NovoEd , to discuss how AI transforms employee learning, the shift in enterprise SaaS and the key leadership lessons she has learned while scaling a company. They explore the role of curiosity in leadership, the challenges of growing a team and how enterprises are rethinking their approach to learning and development. Key Takeaways: (03:16) Prototyping ideas is easier than ever with AI. (05:17) Findi...
Feb 23, 2025•35 min•Season 1Ep. 109
This week, David Wright is joined by Claudionor Coelho Jr. , Chief AI Officer at Zscaler , the company running the largest cybersecurity cloud in the world. Together, they discuss the intersection of AI and cybersecurity, the accelerating pace of technological change and how organizations can prepare for an AI-driven future. Key Takeaways: (05:54) Lessons learned from early career failures and how collaboration drives success. (08:36) The rapid acceleration of AI development, from LLMs to genera...
Feb 09, 2025•39 min•Season 1Ep. 108
Pavan Pidugu , Chief Technology Officer of FMCSA at the US Department of Transportation , shares insights from his transformative career, which spans retail leadership and federal government innovation. As CTO, he leads initiatives that enhance safety and efficiency in the transportation industry, driving cultural and technological change. Key Takeaways: (02:31) The importance of fostering a startup culture within government roles. (09:41) How learning from failure and adaptability shapes strong...
Feb 03, 2025•49 min•Season 1Ep. 107
Cheryl Johnson , Chief Product and Technology Officer at Betterworks , joins David Wright to share her career journey and leadership lessons. Cheryl discusses embracing challenges, staying grounded and creating human-centered work cultures. She also shares pivotal career moments, including overcoming burnout, navigating startups and driving innovation with AI. Key Takeaways: (03:53) The value of showing up authentically as a leader. (09:40) Leaning into fear creates growth opportunities. (16:32)...
Jan 06, 2025•54 min•Season 1Ep. 106
Ryan Hale , Chief Information Officer at Lithko Contracting , joins David Wright to discuss scaling a business while navigating digital transformation. Lithko, the nation’s second-largest concrete contractor, manages over 500 projects in 22 locations. Ryan reflects on his decade of leadership, sharing lessons on problem-solving, data-driven decision-making and embracing innovation. Key Takeaways: (02:26) Lithko’s projects span warehouses, hospitals and high-rises, fostering local connections in ...
Dec 08, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 105
In this episode, David Wright is joined by Daniel Burrus , a renowned futurist, author, and Founder and CEO of Burrus Research, Inc. a global research and consulting firm based in Wisconsin. Burrus shares his insights on anticipatory thinking, hard and soft trends, and how businesses can leverage these concepts to remain relevant and future-ready. Key Takeaways: (07:45) Thinking big, then aiming for an even bigger goal. (08:55) The power of failing fast to learn faster. (12:14) Failure fosters g...
Nov 24, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 104
Paul Smith , Chief Information Officer of Amnesty International , shares his journey from a working-class background to becoming a leader in digital innovation at one of the world’s largest human rights organizations. With insights into resourcefulness, cybersecurity and global tech solutions, Paul offers a look into managing technology with purpose and resilience. Key Takeaways: (06:06) The importance of leveraging networks for shared knowledge and support. (08:23) Recognizing the value of humi...
Nov 17, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 103
Ingo Paas, CIO and CDO of Green Cargo, shares insights into leading digital transformation within the rail cargo industry. Green Cargo was the winner of the 2023 IDC Future Enterprise Best in Future of Digital Infrastructure EMEA Award. Ingo has been at the forefront of leveraging AI to innovate and transform traditional industries, showcasing how digital infrastructure can support scalable and sustainable solutions. Key Takeaways: (04:10) Don’t underestimate transformational changes in technolo...
Oct 20, 2024•36 min•Season 1Ep. 102
This week, David Wright is joined by Mike Todasco , Visiting Fellow at the James Silberrad Brown Center for Artificial Intelligence at San Diego State University . Mike shares his journey from accountant to leading innovation at PayPal and now, in his current work with AI at San Diego State University. They explore the power of AI tools in driving business effectiveness, the importance of great leadership, and maintaining work-life balance in today's fast-paced environment. Key Takeaways: (03:25...
Oct 13, 2024•47 min•Season 1Ep. 101
David Wright is joined by Scott Murray , Chief Operating Officer at Collective Health , to discuss the future of healthcare. Scott shares insights from his diverse career, spanning roles at Safeway, eBay, and now Collective Health. He emphasizes the importance of leadership, innovation, and customer-centricity in transforming healthcare. Key Takeaways: (03:05) Confronting brutal facts and not letting fear dictate your actions leads to better decision-making. (05:31) Scott's career focuses on uni...
Sep 29, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 100
This week, David Wright is joined by Gaurav Banga , the CEO and founder of Balbix , a company leveraging AI to enhance cybersecurity risk management. Gaurav shares his journey from PhD to serial entrepreneur, offering insights into the intersection of cybersecurity and AI, and the lessons learned from building successful companies. Key Takeaways: (03:06) Focus on solving problems, and view cybersecurity as a data science or AI challenge. (07:02) Gaurav’s journey began with a PhD and a smartphone...
Sep 22, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 99
In this episode, David Wright is joined by Dr. Douglas Bruce , Professor of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and SVP, Chief Clinical Integration Officer at MetroHealth System . They explore the intersection of healthcare and technology, focusing on behavior change and the role of digital tools in patient care. Dr. Bruce shares insights from his extensive experience in public health, digital transformation and working with marginalized groups, emphasizing the importa...
Sep 08, 2024•40 min•Season 1Ep. 98
This week, David Wright is joined by Claudia Infante , Chief Data Officer at Margaritaville , to discuss her journey from Director of Revenue Strategy to leading Margaritaville’s data-driven initiatives. They explore how Claudia has played a pivotal role in scaling the brand, the importance of understanding customer experiences, and the lessons learned from failures. Key Takeaways: (02:25) Walking in customers’ shoes to understand their experience. (05:12) Overcoming biases by recognizing that y...
Aug 25, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 97
Understanding the cost dynamics and technological advancements in diagnostic imaging is crucial for both patients and providers. This week, David Wright is joined by Dr. John Simon , Founder and CEO of SimonMed Imaging , to discuss the innovations in radiology, the affordability of imaging services and the impact of AI on diagnostic care. Key Takeaways: (02:25) Dr. John Simon's role and the scope of SimonMed Imaging. (03:00) The importance of being an informed patient and asking questions. (05:4...
Aug 18, 2024•34 min•Season 1Ep. 96
Innovation isn't just about the next big idea; it's about fostering a culture that brings those ideas to life. This week, David Wright is joined by Prith Banerjee , CTO at Ansys , to delve into the intricacies of driving innovation in large organizations. They explore the importance of leveraging external disruptive innovations and balancing academic research with practical applications. Prith shares insights on understanding customer pain points, creating markets for disruptive innovations, and...
Aug 04, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 95
Imagine transforming your business with technology that not only boosts productivity but also empowers your team and drives success. This week, Jason James , CIO of Aptos Retail , joins David Wright to discuss the strategic role of technology in retail and the significance of leadership and mentorship in driving business success. They dive into how technology empowers businesses, the importance of proactive communication during failures and the role of culture in successful digital transformatio...
Jul 28, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 94
In this episode, David Wright is joined by Jonathan Chan , Head of Global IT and Security at Episource , who shares insights on leveraging technology to drive business goals and enhance efficiency in healthcare. Jonathan reveals how transforming IT from a cost center into a revenue driver can revolutionize healthcare. Key Takeaways: (03:36) IT is a business enabler. (05:11) Converting IT conversations to revenue-driven goals. (07:57) AI as assisted intelligence, not artificial intelligence. (14:...
Jul 21, 2024•32 min•Season 1Ep. 93
This week, David Wright is joined by Brian Rowe , Vice President of Information Technology at Rehrig Pacific Company . Brian shares details of his unique journey and insights into the pivotal role of human-centric solutions in driving innovation and efficiency. Key Takeaways: (04:00) Every problem is ultimately a human problem. (06:03) The realization that coding didn’t bring personal fulfillment. (12:09) Balancing innovation with data security and understanding the broader business impact is cr...
Jul 08, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 92
This week, David Wright is joined by Dr. Soma Venkat , SVP & Chief Information Technology Officer of Cooper Standard , to discuss the transformative power of higher ideals in leadership, the importance of adaptability and the future of digital innovation in the automotive industry. Key Takeaways: (03:42) A mantra for career growth: having higher ideals and goals, focusing on service rather than power or money. (07:53) Soma’s journey from India to becoming a global CIO. (12:54) The value of l...
Jun 23, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 91
This week, David Wright talks with David Sylvan , Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer of University Hospitals , about healthcare innovation and digital health. David Sylvan shares insights from his varied career, his role in leading strategy and innovation, and the future of healthcare. Key Takeaways: (02:16) David Sylvan introduces his roles at University Hospitals and talks about the system's size and partnerships. (03:28) The importance of listening more and talking less for good leadership...
Jun 10, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 90
This week, David Wright is joined by Stephen Brobst , Chief Technology Officer of Ab Initio Software , to delve into his journey in technology, the importance of teamwork and the future of AI and data management. Key Takeaways: (02:26) Stephen’s role at Ab Initio, which is known for innovation and engineering. (03:10) Smart people are important for success. (04:18) A summer internship sparked Stephen’s interest in high-speed computing. (09:41) Stephen values experiences and travel over possessio...
Jun 03, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 89
This week, David Wright is joined by Darlene Reina , Head of IT & Business Systems at Calendly , to discuss the evolving role of IT leadership and strategic alignment within fast-growing tech companies. Key Takeaways: (02:58) Darlene shares a piece of career advice and its significance to her career. (04:00) From working at Apple and higher education to leading IT at Calendly. (05:50 Communicate and engage with different audiences: The importance of storytelling in IT. (09:00) Learning from ...
May 28, 2024•38 min•Season 1Ep. 88
This week, David Wright is joined by Jessica Kalinowski , VP of DevOps and Corporate IT for connectRN , to explore how embracing challenges and leveraging technology can enhance healthcare delivery and clinician support. Key Takeaways: (02:23) Jessica introduces her role and the mission of connectRN to improve work-life balance for clinicians. (03:08) The importance of stepping out of your comfort zone to drive career transformation. (06:37) How DevOps principles can be applied across different ...
May 19, 2024•37 min•Season 1Ep. 87
This week, Huntzinger Partner and Executive Vice President Dr. William Reed, PhD is joined by Aaron Wootton , Chief Digital Officer of Huntzinger Management Group , to delve into the integration of AI and digital technologies in healthcare. They discuss the transformational role of these technologies in improving patient care and operational efficiency. Key Takeaways: (03:40) Telemedicine and call centers as transformative healthcare technologies. (04:19) Aaron reflects on 25 years in healthcare...
May 05, 2024•35 min•Season 1Ep. 86
