10-Minute Tech Talks: How Tech Entrepreneurs Fail & How You Can Avoid It

When did AI stop being a fun experiment… and start becoming table stakes for running a business? In just a year, AI has gone from "interesting" to essential. But while nearly every company is talking about it, only a fraction are actually seeing real returns. In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, you'll hear from Justine Kasznica and Chris Farmakis of Babst Calland on why AI adoption has exploded, what's driving CFOs a little crazy right now, and how the companies getting it right are separating themselves from the pack. This is the moment AI stopped being optional, and became core to how business gets done. So here's the takeaway: AI is officially mainstream, but success is far from guaranteed. Some companies are unlocking massive efficiency gains. Others are burning money and wondering what went wrong. In our next episode, we'll dig into why so many AI initiatives fail, and what leaders must do differently if they want real ROI instead of expensive experiments. If you're asking yourself, "Okay, so how do we actually do this right?" — you'll want to catch Part Two. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What if the next breakout startup isn't powered by better software… but by better connectivity? Today's 10 Minute Tech Talk is all about removing the invisible limits that hold entrepreneurs back. We are joined by Jay Noschese from T-Mobile for Business, and this conversation flips the script on how founders should think about 5G. We're not talking faster phones. We're talking about new business models, new customer experiences, and entire industries being reshaped because connectivity can now be customized, optimized, and trusted for mission-critical work. Hit PLAY, and you'll hear how technologies like 5G Advanced and network slicing are already powering live sports broadcasts, massive events, and healthcare systems where failure isn't an option. And more importantly, you'll start to see what this unlocks for entrepreneurs building what's next. If you're a founder, operator, or innovator asking, "What can I build now that wasn't possible before?" You're in the right place. Let's jump in. Listen to the entire TechVibe interview here. This Pittsburgh Technology Council podcast is for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What if the biggest threat to your startup isn't the competition, but the decisions you make in the first six months? In this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we dive into a powerful segment from our TechVibe Radio interview with Juliana Keeling and Joe Swider of Terravive, the fast-growing company reinventing single-use products with American-made compostable materials. Their journey hasn't been driven by hype or shortcuts — it's been shaped by sharp strategic thinking, disciplined growth, and a relentless commitment to building a real business from the ground up. In this clip, Juliana and Joe open up about the lessons most founders learn too late: • Why a great idea means nothing without true product-market fit • How accelerators can accelerate the right things — including funding that doesn't cost you equity • The danger of jumping at the first investor check, and how early dilution can quietly sink a company • What authentic partnership looks like when the stakes get high • Why staying scrappy and in control ended up being their greatest advantage This is a candid, practical look at entrepreneurship from two people who have fought through the messy middle and come out stronger. Whether you're building something new or trying to course-correct something established, their insights land with uncommon clarity. Give it a listen — your future self will thank you. Click here for their full TechVibe interview. This is a Pittsburgh Technology Council podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What if the key to better leadership, sharper decisions, and next-level strategy was sitting on a chessboard? Host Jonathan Kersting with the Pittsburgh Technology Council and TechVibe Radio dives into a conversation that every founder, innovator, and builder needs to hear. We're featuring a powerful slice of his TechVibe Radio interview with Ashley Lynn Priore, the force behind Queens Gambit and Queenside Ventures. She launched her first nonprofit at just 14 years old. Today she's empowering thousands of kids each year, guiding CEOs, and—yes—working with NFL players looking to think three moves ahead. Hit PLAY, you'll learn how Ashley turns chess into a real-world strategy framework, why inclusive leadership matters, and how bold thinking—like cold-emailing NFL teams—can unlock huge opportunities. Plus TechVibe Cohost and Tech Council CEO Audrey Russo joins the conversation. Have more than 10 minutes? Listen to the entire interview here. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What does it take for a small, bootstrapped tech company to leap from building dashboards… to designing AI-powered drones for the U.S. Army? Today on 10 Minute Tech Talks, dive into one of the most unlikely — and inspiring — pivots in tech as we welcome James Julius, founder and CEO of Visimo. James reveals how his team evolved from early-stage ramen budgets to landing a $3 million defense contract, why staying close to customers drove every major turning point, and how rapid prototyping and AI are transforming what small teams can build. From bootstrapping to battlefield-ready AI drones, Visimo's journey shows that when you stay curious, stay agile, and stay close to your customers, big opportunities follow. If you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or anyone navigating fast-moving technology, this is a segment you do not want to miss. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What if scaling your tech business was as simple—and as flexible—as snapping together a few Lego bricks? In this 10 Minute Tech Talks episode, we break down how modular, on-demand infrastructure is becoming a game-changing advantage for today's tech entrepreneurs. Dave Tomassoni of Megaport gives insights reveal why agility is no longer a luxury — it's a competitive necessity. Dave details: 1. How adopting a "Lego mindset" can reduce complexity and help you scale globally without slowing down. 2. The hidden ways your current network setup may be costing you money, time, and competitive advantage. 3. Why the most successful tech entrepreneurs build for flexibility first — and how you can, too. If you want the blueprint for faster scaling, leaner operations, and smarter tech decisions, press play and get the insight every modern entrepreneur needs. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What if the secret to staying ahead in business isn't mastering every new technology — but learning how to adapt faster than it changes? In this episode, Jonathan Kersting's TechVibe Radio Cohost and Tech Council CEO Audrey Russo talk with Michelle O'Neill, Senior Director of Web Solutions and Delivery at Brunner — a marketing agency that's been fusing creativity and technology for decades. Michelle shares: How she carved her own path inside Brunner, What entrepreneurs can learn about agility and lifelong learning, and  Why she believes AI should be seen as a tool — never a replacement for human creativity and connection.  Dive into this conversation to find your entrepreneurial edge.. And if you have a few more minutes, be sure to listen to our entire Techvibe interview here. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces this podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What can earning a black belt in karate teach you about running a startup? CGI's Manoj Mishra shares how discipline, quiet confidence, and servant leadership form the backbone of strong leadership — in business and beyond. Manoj joined TechVibe Radio to dive deep on how his journey to a black belt informed his leadership and being a better human. If you have a few more minutes, click here for his full interview.  Whether you're leading a global team or building your first startup, the message is the same — discipline keeps you consistent, quiet confidence earns trust, and servant leadership inspires others to follow. If you want to grow as a leader, start by mastering yourself. Remember, the best tech leaders are always learning, on and off the mat. Hit Play now for these amazing insights! The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces this podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What if your AI could help you live well — not just work better? In this episode of TechVibe, host Jonathan Kersting talks with Mike Hruska, founder of Baryons, about how his new AI platform is redefining what it means to flourish in life and work. After two decades leading Problem Solutions, Hruska's latest venture uses voice-based, human-first technology to help people reflect, reframe, and rediscover purpose. Drawing from science in positive psychology, Baryons engages users in short, mentor-like conversations designed to boost mental wealth, creativity, and clarity — all while maintaining privacy and emotional safety. Hruska's mission? To democratize human flourishing at scale. He believes that when people feel centered, purposeful, and connected, they don't just improve their own wellbeing — they elevate entire organizations. Key Takeaways: Only one-third of today's workforce is truly thriving — Baryons aims to change that. AI can be used to build mental wealth and emotional resilience, not just productivity. "Flourishing" isn't about success or status — it's about living well, every day. Voice-driven interactions are the future of human-centered technology. Why Listen: If you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or leader curious about how AI can empower people — not replace them — this conversation offers a glimpse into the future of technology designed for human potential. Hit PLAY and get ready to FLOURISH! Try Baryons for Yourself:  Free Trial: Up to three calls per month; $20/month for full access Website: www.baryons.com — use code PITT to skip the waitlist The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces TechVibe to explore Pittsburgh's technology and innovation ecosystem.

What if the next breakthrough in AI doesn't come from a giant data center or another LLM, but from a small Pittsburgh startup that's building artificial intelligence modeled on the human brain? Hit PLAY to hear from Chris Paradise and Nick Retos of Digital Dynamics AI—two founders chasing an idea that could redefine what AI is capable of. In just a year, they've gone from concept to prototype, and their KARIOS platform already challenges the limits of traditional AI thinking. Be one of the first to learn about this potentially disruptive AI technology. Let's jump into a clip from the full TechVibe Radio interview where they explain how biomimicry and brain-inspired design could push AI to the next frontier. And if you have a few more minutes click here for the full interview. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

10 Minute Tech Talks dives into one of the biggest transformations happening in business right now — the shift from robotic process automation to intelligent, agent-based AI. 10 Minute Tech Talks host Jonathan Kersting sat down with Bender Singh, founder of Auxiliobits, to talk about how AI agents are changing the game for industries like finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. What really stands out is his take on what this means for the workforce — and how entrepreneurs can use AI to make their teams smarter, faster, and more adaptable. If you've ever wondered what the next wave of automation looks like — or how to prepare your business for it — this conversation is a must-listen. And if you want to dive deeper click here for the full techvibe interview. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What does it really take to build a tech startup from scratch — not in Silicon Valley, but in Pittsburgh — and grow it into a company that just landed $10.6 million in growth capital? On this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we sit down with Alison Alvarez and Tomer Borenstein, the co-founders of BlastPoint, a Pittsburgh-based AI company that's spent nearly a decade perfecting how data can drive smarter business decisions. Their story is one of grit, patience, and the power of building something meaningful over time. You'll hear how Alison and Tomer: Turned a class project at Carnegie Mellon into a national AI success story, powered by sheer determination (and a few late nights with chickens watching from the windowsill). Balanced day jobs, family, and startup dreams for years before finally jumping in full-time — a masterclass in sustainable entrepreneurship. Navigated Pittsburgh's unique startup ecosystem, proving that community support and local roots can be just as powerful as coastal capital. As Alison puts it, "Starting a company is like chasing a crazy dream — but if we hadn't done it, BlastPoint wouldn't exist." Their reflections on resilience, growth, and staying grounded in Pittsburgh's tech scene make this episode a must-listen for any entrepreneur who's ever wondered if it's still possible to build something great the hard way — with integrity, perseverance, and a love for where you live. Hit PLAY now to hear how two tech entrepreneurs turned persistence into progress — and why their best chapters are just beginning. Listen to their entire interview on TechVibe Radio here. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

What if everything we thought we knew about artificial intelligence was built on an outdated model from the 1940s? On this episode of 10 Minute Tech Talks, we sit down with Dr. Rorry Brenner, founder of Perforated AI, whose breakthrough approach is rewriting the very foundations of neural networks. His team is showing how AI systems can be built to run smarter, faster, and far more efficiently — delivering game-changing results like a 38x reduction in cloud computing costs. This isn't just another AI startup story. It's a fundamental shift in how technology will be built and deployed across every industry. And it's happening right here in Pittsburgh. In the next 10 minutes, you'll hear why Perforated AI could reshape the way businesses think about energy use, scalability, and performance in machine learning. And if you want to dive deeper into Dr. Brenner's full vision, you can catch the complete interview over on TechVibe Radio. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

How much is a bad hire really costing your business — and how do you know when to call in experts instead of doing it yourself? For entrepreneurs trying to grow, hiring is both the biggest opportunity and the biggest risk. Sorting résumés, screening candidates and hoping for a good fit can drain your time and budget, while the wrong hire can set back an entire team. In this episode, Anthony Bucci and Blake Babcock from BV Staffing share their hard-won tips on when founders should handle recruiting themselves and when it pays to partner with a staffing firm. Learn simple, no-cost ways to tighten your hiring process before you post a single job. Understand the hidden costs of mis-hiring and how to avoid them. Discover what to look for in a staffing partner and how to hold them accountable with clear metrics. Press play to get practical, money-saving insights on building your team from two pros who help high-growth companies hire right the first time. If you want the full TechVibe Radio interview, click here! Let's jump into the conversation. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

How can data and AI generate measurable value, and what lessons can you apply to your own organization right now? Many leaders are investing in analytics, machine learning, and digital transformation but still struggle to connect their projects back to business outcomes. In this episode, Mitch Kwiatkowski, Executive Vice President of Data at Techstra Solutions, who has led initiatives delivering over $250 million in value, offers a roadmap for entrepreneurs and business leaders facing the same challenge. He answered three key questions on the Pittsburgh Technology Council's TechVibe Radio Show so you can: Learn how Mitch first saw technology's power to transform entire industries and why that perspective still guides his work today. Understand the coming workforce shifts driven by AI and what leaders can do now to reskill, upskill, and redeploy talent. Hear a simple, practical way to ensure every data or AI initiative ties back to measurable business results. Discover how you can align your own data and AI efforts with real business impact, straight from one of the field's most experienced leaders. If you're not not so time-crunched, listen to Mitch's entire interview here. This is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Are skyrocketing medical costs and confusing benefit plans draining your budget and frustrating your employees? You're not alone—commercial healthcare costs are rising 9–10% annually and traditional high-deductible plans rarely deliver the promised savings. This episode of 10 Minute Tech Talk explores Highmark's bold new CopayGo plan, which is designed to simplify benefits and bring real transparency to what care costs before you get it. Host Jonathan Kersting talked to Highmark leaders Jonathan Majernik and Taylor Mackay for the Health Care Reinvented podcast series so you can: Understand how CopayGo removes deductibles and co-insurance so members see a single, clear copay up front. Learn how a national network with tiered high-impact specialties can help control 60% of medical spend without limiting options. Discover how Highmark's enhanced digital tools empower employees to make confident, informed healthcare choices. Press play now to hear how CopayGo can help you rein in rising costs and give your workforce a simpler, smarter healthcare experience. If you've got more time on you hands, listen to the entire episode here. Let's get into the conversation with Jonathan Majernik. The Pittsburgh Technology Council produces this podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Are you truly making the most of AI's potential? In this thought-provoking conversation ripped from the Pittsburgh Technology Council's TechVibe Radio Show, Zico Kolter and Matt Fredrickson, faculty members at Carnegie Mellon University and founders of Gray Swan AI, explore why the time to embrace AI is right now and how technology once deemed futuristic is fundamentally reshaping industries today.  TechVibe hosts Audrey Russo and Jonathan Kersting  discuss the immense power of AI tools already at your fingertips. Key takeaways? You'll gain insights into how AI can radically enhance your productivity, why security is key to unlocking its full potential, and a surprising perspective on why even the most advanced users of AI aren't utilizing it fully. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to stay ahead in the AI-driven world, solve problems more effectively, and tap into the industry-changing possibilities of artificial intelligence. Let's jump into the conversation with Zico and Matt. Got extra time on your hands? Listen to the entire interview here. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

As companies race to integrate AI tools, many overlook the human side of the equation: how employees actually feel about using them, and how workplace culture shifts when new technology enters the mix. If you're leading a team or adapting to AI yourself, this episode gives you the perspective you need to navigate both the opportunities and anxieties. This episode has highlights with Nathan Wadding of the Kindling Culture Agency who authored a fascinating read about the impact of AI on work culture. Click here for a great read. Keep on listening to: Discover why embedding AI into daily workflows can free up time for more meaningful work. Learn how leaders can use "moments that matter" to strengthen trust and adaptability. Hear practical ways to build a culture where employees feel safe, valued, and future-ready in the age of AI. Press play now to hear how you can turn AI adoption into a competitive advantage while protecting the culture that keeps your people engaged. Let's jump into the conversation with Nathan right now. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Are you maximizing the potential of your website's search visibility to drive conversions? In today's digital age, we'll know that getting your business noticed online is crucial. 10 Minute Tech Talks welcomes Meesha Gerhart of RedTree Web Design to help make it easier for you. We're going to explore how search engine optimization (SEO), Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and user experience can work together to not only attract visitors but also lead them down the path to conversion. Hit PLAY to: Discover actionable strategies to enhance your website's visibility before the click. Learn how to create a seamless user journey that turns visitors into loyal customers. Gain insights into integrating thought leadership with SEO and GEO to build brand trust and recognition. Learn how to transform your website into a conversion powerhouse! And be sure to read Meesha's insightful whitepaper for more details. Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.

Has your market and technology evolved so much that it might make sense to rebrand your company? Maybe you acquired a company and the new services are just itching to grab a customer's attention! For security company Intertech CI this was the case on all three points. When Ron Petnuch, President and CEO of Intertech CI, stopped byTechVibe Radio, part of his conversation landed on the company's rebrand as direct reaction to the fast pace of technology evolution in the security industry. From AI-enabled cameras to advanced card readers, technology was not only advancing, but also had to be integrated. Intertech CI's recent rebrand highlights how businesses must adapt to shifts in technology and market demands. After merging with Fedora, a company focused on portable security units, Intertech CI expanded its capabilities to serve larger projects, including major global developers. The rebrand represented a return to their roots in "Comprehensive Integration" while showcasing their enhanced range of services. Hit PLAY to hear Ron detail how Intertech went through its rebrand and if you'd like to hear more from Ron and Intertech CI on TechVibe, click here.  Produced by the Pittsburgh Technology Council, this is a podcast for tech and manufacturing  entrepreneurs exploring the tech ecosystem, from cyber security and AI to SaaS, robotics, and life sciences, featuring insights to satisfy the tech curious.