Claim OwnershipMineWarp
Subscribed: 6Played: 42
Subscribe
© MineWarp with Empie Strydom
Description
Welcome to the MineWarp Podcast where global thought leaders discuss mining's digital transformation with your host Empie Strydom.
We talk with the INNOVATORS pushing the boundaries of what is possible, the INVESTORS funding them, the IGNITORS bringing new technology to the market, and the mining IMPLEMENTORS ultimately unlocking business value through innovation.
#Mining #LetsTalkDigital #MineWarp
We talk with the INNOVATORS pushing the boundaries of what is possible, the INVESTORS funding them, the IGNITORS bringing new technology to the market, and the mining IMPLEMENTORS ultimately unlocking business value through innovation.
#Mining #LetsTalkDigital #MineWarp
92 Episodes
Reverse
Digital mining transformation starts with connectivity—and few understand this better than Dr. Jeannette McGill.From LTE networks in mines to summiting Mount Everest, this is a story of technology, leadership, and resilience.Jeannette’s career spans underground gold mines in South Africa, digital transformation roles in global mining companies, and the deployment of LTE networks enabling autonomous mining operations.In this conversation we explore:Why connectivity is the hidden backbone of digital miningWhat it was like to be among the first women working underground in South African minesHow boards should think about technology risk and valueAnd some bonus material about the leadership lessons learned from climbing Mount Everest! Don't miss this fascinating discussion about technology, resilience, and long-term ambition in the mining industry.#MineWarp #mininginnovation #LTE in Mining
In this episode of MineWarp, we explore one of the most extraordinary mining regions on Earth — the Talnakh ore cluster near Norilsk in the Russian Arctic.Our guest Andrei Gritesenko explains why these deposits are among the richest nickel-copper-platinum group metal resources ever discovered — and why that richness creates its own operational challenge.We discuss:The geology of the Siberian Traps that formed these massive sulfide depositsThe Talnakh, Oktyabrsky, Taymyrsky and Skalisty mines, extending more than 2 km undergroundWhy grade control becomes extremely difficult in high-grade, highly variable ore bodiesHow small mistakes in ore/waste boundaries can destroy valueThe unique challenge of mining complex orebodies deep inside the Arctic CircleThis episode highlights how geology, data, and operational discipline intersect in one of the most strategically important mining districts in the world.
Mechanical engineer turned global mining technology leader, David Dickson traces the journey from aerospace engineering to industrial automation and quantum research.We unpack:- OT/IT convergence- The future of autonomous decision layers- The physics behind quantum computing- Why metallurgy may be one of quantum’s first industrial use cases
In this episode of MineWarp, Empie Strydom speaks with Edward Murray, CEO of iGlobe, about how spatial data has evolved from maps and CAD into a core decision-making platform for modern mining.Edward shares his entrepreneurial journey, from early GIS and surveying work through building, selling, and rebuilding technology businesses, and explains why bespoke mining solutions eventually fail at scale. The conversation dives into platform thinking, drones and sensors, real-time data, AI, and why spatial context is essential for turning disconnected datasets into trusted, living assets.Challenging the idea that mining is slow to adopt technology, Edward argues that the industry is now one of the most advanced digital adopters—and offers a forward-looking view on AI, connectivity in Africa, and what the next decade of mining technology could look like.
In this episode of MineWarp, Gary Lane (President of the Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, SAIMM) unpacks what it takes to build and attract the skills and talent needed for a strong and resilient Southern African Mining industry.Drawing on decades of entrepreneurship and systems-thinking experience, he discusses the need for stewardship, governance and "making mining sexy" again to professionals both young and old.Also under the spotlight is the up and coming role of AI, and what kinds of changes mining should prepare for to remain a valuable contributor to the economy.Don't miss this insightful episode with a highly respected voice in South African mining.
In this episode of MineWarp, host Empie Strydom is joined by Corné Yzelle, Advisory Lead for Business Transformation & Operational Excellence at AMC Consultants, for a deep, practical discussion on what real mining transformation actually means.Moving beyond the usual narratives of digitalisation and technology adoption, the conversation explores delivering sustained, transformational value supported by technology —and what leading organisations do differently. Corné explains why transformation is not about deploying more tools, but about redesigning operating models, decision-making structures, and performance governance so that value is intentionally created and protected over time.The discussion unpacks the critical role of experienced advisors in shaping transformation journeys—providing structure, contextual benchmarking, and continuity that internal teams often struggle to maintain amid operational pressures. Together, Empie and Corné explore concepts such as value flow, value driver alignment, leadership accountability, and why benchmarking must be grounded in the realities of each asset rather than generic “best practice.”This episode is essential viewing for mining executives, transformation leaders, and METS professionals seeking to move from fragmented initiatives to sustained operational excellence—and to understand why consulting-led transformation remains a cornerstone of meaningful, measurable change.
In Part One of this conversation, Emilie Ditton unpacks why the journey toward a low-carbon mine is far more complex than simply electrifying equipment or adopting new technologies. Drawing on her experience working across mining, energy, and industrial environments at Schneider Electric, she explains how decarbonisation efforts are layered on top of already-strained business and operating models, where consistency, profitability, and reliability remain constant pressures.The discussion explores why many sustainability initiatives struggle to scale, highlighting the gap between ambition and execution. Emilie reframes the energy transition as a business transformation challenge—one that demands organisational readiness, cross-functional alignment, and a clear understanding of how energy, operations, and digital capability intersect. This first part sets the foundation for understanding why progress is hard, even when intent is strong.
“Before You Buy More Tech, Use What You Have”A disciplined operations-led view on mining digitalisation with Felipe de Brito Pereira, VP Operations at AngloGold Ashanti.Felipe discusses this and other interesting topics, including letting mining strategy lead technology selection, and his personal fitness regimen!
In this episode of MineWarp, Empie Strydom talks with Dr. Josh Goveia, Acting Manager for Tailing Storage and Water Dams at First Quantum Minerals, about what it really means to lead through learning.From his early days as an academic to taking on real-world engineering challenges in Zambia, Josh shares how the best leaders blend technical excellence with empathy, curiosity, and courage. He reflects on the moments that tested his resilience, how he approaches problem-solving as both a scientist and a human being, and why leadership in mining isn’t about control — it’s about connection.If you’ve ever wondered how culture and mindset shape engineering outcomes, this episode will resonate deeply.#minewarp #miningtechnology #mininginnovation #digitaltransformation
Few voices in South African mining carry more weight — or more candour — than Bernard Swanepoel, Outspoken Industry Leader from THINKspiration, #joburgindaba Chair, and ex CEO of Harmony Gold Mining Company Limited.This week on MineWarp, Bernard shares hard truths about mining’s relevance, leadership courage, and the trust deficit between industry, government and mining communities. What comes through loud and clear is that he’s proud of what South Africa’s mining industry is, and frustrated at what it is not yet becoming.#minewarp #mininginnovation #joburgindaba
In this episode of MineWarp, we sit down with Ahmed Kader, Operations Director at CrystalForge, to unpack how industrial AI is turning operational data into real-world decisions for mines and process plants.Most sites are drowning in sensor data — yet still struggle to connect the dots between systems, teams, and performance. Ahmed explains how CrystalForge’s platform bridges legacy systems with intelligent analytics, creating visibility across assets, processes, and energy use.We discuss the realities of digital transformation in complex industrial environments — from gaining trust in machine recommendations to quantifying ROI. For plant and automation managers, this is a practical look at how to move from dashboards to decisions.#MineWarp #LetsTalkDigital #MiningInnovation
What does it take to optimize billion-dollar mining assets for the future? In this episode, Devin Askham, Global Business Director at Collaborit, shares his journey, Collaborit’s role in SAP-driven asset management, and why trust and visibility are at the heart of digital transformation in mining.#MineWarp #LetsTalkDigital #EAM
Paul Ehlers, CEO of DMS Mining Simulator reveals how gamification and the #Mineralverse are reshaping mining education and collaboration. Discover how simulation makes mining easier to learn - and harder to forget.#MineWarp #MiningInnovation #LetsTalkDigital #MiningGames
In this episode of the MineWarp Podcast, we dive into fleet management, adoption challenges, and Groundhog’s vision of becoming the brain behind the fully automated mine.Satish Penmetsa, CEO and co-founder of Groundhog, explains why mining’s digital race is shifting from hardware tracking to mining orchestration.
In this conversation, Johan Rademan, CEO of Harvinno Digital, Advanced Process Monitoring and Control experts, and GE Vernova Africa distributor, discusses the evolution of his company and the importance of focusing on value in the mining industry. He shares insights on the significance of monitoring and data management, the challenges of control loop performance management, advanced process control and optimization, and the role of predictive and prescriptive analytics in optimizing operations. Johan also offers advice for entrepreneurs on balancing innovation and growth while emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement and support.#Minewarp #letstalkdigital #mininginnovation #AdvancedProcessControl
In this episode of the MineWarp Podcast, Empie engages with Louis Strydom, Director of Growth and Development at Wärtsilä Energy, to discuss the evolving landscape of energy transition, digital transformation, and the challenges faced by developing markets. We explore the importance of flexibility and stability in energy systems, the need for a portfolio approach to innovation, and the environmental considerations surrounding energy technologies. Louis shares insights on financing energy innovations and the necessity of collaboration in energy projects, emphasizing that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to decarbonization. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the MineWarp Podcast05:17 Guest Introduction: Louis Strydom10:59 The Importance of Digital Transformation16:55 Understanding Energy Transition22:55 Challenges in Developing Markets28:41 Financing Energy Innovations34:30 Environmental Considerations in Energy Transition40:21 Lessons Learned in Energy Innovation44:23 Personal Insights and Conclusion#LetsTalkDigital #MineWarp #MiningInnovation
In this episode of the MineWarp Podcast, we delve into the challenges and strategies of building trust in AI recommendations within the mining industry. Join us as we explore insights from Shaun Mitchell, CEO of MaxMine, on how gamification, explainable AI, and a focus on human collaboration are transforming scepticism into acceptance among miners. Discover how these innovative approaches are not only enhancing productivity and safety but also paving the way for a more data-driven future in mining. Tune in to learn how AI is reshaping the landscape and fostering a culture of trust and transparency.
Dive into profitable innovation with Tim Vorage, Operating Partner at 10-Ops. Tim shares how 10-Ops transforms opportunities into actionable operations using AI, Evil Digital Twins, and Inconvenient Truths.Key insights:Leveraging AI to identify and validate new business opportunities.Strategies for scaling innovationTim’s practical advice is a must-hear for CEOs, marketers, and business development managers in the natural resources sector.
Season 2 is here! In this episode of the MineWarp podcast, host Empie Strydom welcomes guests Eric Palmer and Alan Bye to discuss the critical role of Mining Equipment Technology and Services (METS) in the mining industry. They explore the challenges of innovation, investment, and the importance of understanding market fit for new technologies. The conversation also touches on the impact of AI in mining and the personal interests of the guests outside of their professional lives.Episode TakeawaysMETS companies are essential for the future of mining.Innovation in mining occurs in pockets and requires collaboration.Investors face challenges in identifying successful tech companies.The mining sector is ripe for innovation and change.Funding for mining technology often comes from venture capital.Understanding product market fit is crucial for tech start-ups.AI is making an impact but requires careful implementation.Mining companies need to focus on the value they provide to customers.The relationship between innovators and mining companies is symbiotic.
Adriaan Davidse, Director at Deloitte Canada, joins Empie and Jéan to discuss how mining business processes can be optimized for tomorrow’s challenges. They explore how better use of information drives smarter decisions, whether mining is falling behind other industries in digital transformation, and what steps can be taken to close the gap.
Comments
Download from Google Play
Download from App Store
United States