Episode 22 of Daemon Drumbeat dives into the AI-driven future of work. Kyle chats with Karim, Sihle, and Dale from our AI-First Squad about how AI is reshaping productivity, problem-solving, and collaboration. From coding in “English” to shifting where we spend our energy, they explore the big wins, surprising challenges, and what it really means to work alongside AI.
In Episode 21 of the Daemon Drumbeat podcast, hosts VT and Kyle sit down with Paul Christie, CEO of Tachmed, for a fascinating exploration of a truly unconventional career path. They delve into his remarkable journey from the fast-paced world of high finance to the mission-driven frontier of health technology, uncovering the common thread that ties it all together: the power of a compelling story.For an inspiring story about cross-industry innovation and finding a new purpose, you won't want to miss this episode.
In episode 20 of the Daemon Drumbeat podcast, hosts VT, Managing Consultant at Daemon, and Kyle, speak with Chief Information Officer at D&G, Phil. Before joining D&G, Phil held several CIO and technology leadership roles at Virgin Active, Sainsbury’s, the BBC, and Royal Mail. Earlier in his career, he worked for Scient and Sapient, both digital business transformation companies.The conversation explores what it truly means to lead in today’s technology landscape. Phil reflects on his journey from writing code to shaping strategy, highlighting how leadership has evolved from being the expert in the room to empowering others to grow and succeed.Phil explains leadership as leverage: building capability through teaching, mentoring, and hiring great people. He emphasizes the shift from individual contribution to enabling teams, with trust as the foundation for scaling impact.They also discuss the challenges of leading in a hybrid work environment, where intentional presence is key. While virtual tools facilitate collaboration, face-to-face time remains crucial—especially for mentoring younger professionals and developing the soft skills essential to great leadership. Ultimately, Phil shares that the best leaders stay calm amid uncertainty, focus on building strong teams, and know when to step back so others can step forward.
In Episode 19 of the Daemon Drumbeat podcast, we sit down with Dr. Daniel Hulme, one of the world’s leading experts in Artificial Intelligence and Chief AI Officer at WPP. Hosted by VT, Managing Consultant at Daemon, and Kyle, Daemon’s Chief Growth Officer, this episode explores the rapidly evolving landscape of AI and its implications for business, technology, and society at large.During the conversation, Daniel shares his perspective on the most common mistakes companies and governments make when approaching the adoption of AI, offering a candid view of what’s going wrong—and how to get it right. He discusses how humans and machines can work together most effectively, not by replacing one another, but by augmenting human potential in powerful and often unexpected ways. The conversation moves into the long-term impact of AI on society, including questions around trust, transparency, and the role of leadership in shaping responsible innovation.This episode is packed with practical insights and forward-looking ideas from someone deeply immersed in AI innovation and ethics. Whether you’re a business leader, technologist, or simply curious, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on shaping a better AI-powered future.
In Episode 18 of the Daemon Drumbeat Podcast, hosts VT, Managing Consultant at Daemon, and Kyle, Daemon’s Chief Growth Officer, explore one of the most powerful - and often underestimated - forces in business and consulting: trust. It underpins every deal, every relationship, and ultimately, the success or failure of any venture.But how is trust truly built? Is it just about delivering on promises, or is there something deeper? Together with our guests, we unpack the nuances of trust, how it’s fostered through both emotional connection and proven competence, how to maintain it during challenging times, and what it means to act with integrity and positive intent even when things don’t go according to plan.We’re joined by two exceptional leaders:Richard Newsome, a seasoned technology and transformation executive, brings decades of experience from organisations such as Sainsbury’s, Cancer Research UK, Rolls-Royce, and Cadbury. Recognised as one of Computing’s Top 100 IT Leaders in 2022, Richard shares how he’s built high-performing teams and reshaped technology functions through agile, product-centric models.Judith Batchelar, a biochemist and nutritionist, has spent over 40 years leading across the food, farming, and retail sectors, including senior roles at Mars, Marks & Spencer, and as Director of Sainsbury’s Brand. Now holding multiple board and advisory roles in environmental and health-focused organisations, Judith brings a wealth of insight into purpose-driven leadership and building credibility across industries.Together, we discuss the evolution of trust in relationships, the role of risk-taking, the idea of “winning anyway,” and why, in an age of declining societal trust, personal and professional connections matter more than ever.
In this episode of the Daemon Drumbeat Podcast, we’re joined by Nicola Davis, Strategic Alliances, Partner & Channel Leader at AWS. With a career spanning several decades and an unconventional journey from theatre to tech, Nicola reflects on how the technology industry has evolved to today’s AI-driven advancements.Nicola shares her unique perspective on the ever-changing landscape of tech, discussing its potential to address global challenges and the importance of adapting to constant innovation. We explore the significance of soft skills, the value of diversity and inclusion in building strong teams, and how human behavior influences the adoption of new technologies.She also offers insight into the challenges that newcomers face in tech and shares her predictions for the future of the industry. Finally, Nicola offers valuable advice for those just starting their careers in tech.Tune in for a fascinating discussion on navigating change, fostering diversity, and staying relevant in the tech world.
In Episode 16 of The Daemon Drumbeat podcast, our host VT interviews Netta Jenkins, CEO of Aerodei. With over 15 years of experience advising corporations, Netta has built a LinkedIn following of 200k+ and has been featured in The Washington Post, Forbes, Fortune, McKinsey, and Gartner. In her 2022 TEDx talk, "Reimagining the Workplace," she shared insights on inclusion, which she has also presented internationally in countries like the Netherlands, Ghana, and Turkey. Recognized as one of CIO Views' "Top 10 Most Influential Black Women in Business to Follow" in 2021, Netta previously served as VP of Global Inclusion at IAC/InterActiveCorp, overseeing brands like Tinder, Match.com, and Vimeo. In addition to leading Aerodei, she advises executives on the app Intro, is pursuing a doctorate in quality systems, and authored The Inclusive Organization, which gained attention from Forbes and was shared by Arianna Huffington on LinkedIn. This podcast explores the critical role of diversity, equity, and inclusion in building stronger workplaces, the significance of Black History Month, and effective ways to engage senior leaders in DEI initiatives. Netta Jenkins, a dedicated advocate for inclusion and CEO of Aerodei, shares her journey, the mission behind her company, and why these conversations are essential for creating impactful change at all levels of an organization. Tune in, join the conversation, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!
This week on the Daemon Drumbeat Podcast, guest host Jenny Locke, our Head of People, sits down with Jane Lockwood (COO) and Chris McKenzie (Head of Talent) for a compelling conversation about why employee engagement and recognition, like The Times Best Places to Work and Most Loved Workplaces awards, are more than just accolades. Together, they dive into how these honors align with our North Star ambitions—especially our commitment to being an Employer of Choice and a Great Place to Work. Discover how giving every colleague a voice and role in shaping Daemon’s future has strengthened our culture and fueled continuous improvement. Tune in, join the conversation, and don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe!
Ep. 14 What Does Pride Mean To You? : In this episode of The Daemon Drumbeat podcast, our host VT sits down with Kyle, a key member of Daemon's D&I group, to discuss the significance of Pride and our ongoing diversity and inclusion initiatives. At Daemon, fostering an inclusive environment is more than just a policy—it's a core value that drives our community and work culture. Kyle shares insights into his role within the D&I team and the various activities and programs we implement to support diversity and inclusion. They explore why Pride is vital not just for the LGBTQ+ community, but for everyone, and how it plays a crucial part in our collective growth and understanding. The conversation highlights the importance of asking questions and being open to learning, emphasizing that curiosity and empathy are key to fostering a truly inclusive environment.Tune into this episode to hear about our journey towards inclusivity, the steps to support our diverse team, and how you can contribute to creating a more inclusive world.Listen to the episode here or on any major podcast provider.
Ep. 13 Connecting People To History With AI: In this episode of The Daemon Drumbeat podcast, our host VT talks to Ben Shields, CEO and Joshua Balla-Muir, CTO at Know Me. Know Me is a vibrant startup with an aim to bring history alive - from educating children about historical figures to giving voice to holocaust survivors. Ben Shields and Josh Balla-Muir discuss their vision of a truly interactive and fun learning experience in the form of a video conference-like AI-driven experience. Joining them on the podcast is Damien Duff, AI champion and implementor at Daemon, who, with others at Daemon, worked with Ben and Josh to realise their vision. During this episode, we discuss the possibilities and promises of AI, the difficulties of getting it right, and their own emotional experiences with the characters they have created. Tune into the podcast to understand how AI and AI applications are transforming the world of startups and get a glimpse into how it will transform your experiences in the future. Listen to the episode here or any major podcast provider.
Ep. 12 Moving Toward The Platform: In this enlightening episode of The Daemon Drumbeat, host VT is joined by engineering mavens, Jimmy Headdon, Head of Delivery Excellence, and Victor Szewczenko, Principal Consultant at Daemon, for a deep dive into the evolving landscape of technology platforms. Amidst the fervour surrounding AI and digital transformation, our guests explore the seismic shift towards service-based, composable e-commerce engines and the broader implications for businesses striving for innovation and adaptability. Jimmy and Victor unravel the complexities of breaking up monolithic architectures, shedding light on the journey towards micro-services and the burgeoning trend of platform engineering. They dissect the balance between embracing cutting-edge technologies and maintaining the invaluable core of specialised knowledge and first principles in software development. As they navigate through the pros and cons of cloud adoption, the resurgence of the monolith, and the imperative of critical thinking in technology solutions, Jimmy and Victor provide a masterclass on the strategic considerations businesses must weigh. They stress the importance of aligning technology choices with business goals and the power of developer experience in unlocking team potential. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that goes beyond the buzzwords, offering a candid look at the challenges and opportunities presented by the current technology paradigm.
Ep. 11 The Evolution Of Women In Tech: In this special episode of The Daemon Drumbeat, we celebrate International Women’s Day. Join our vibrant host and Head of People at Daemon, Jenny Locke, as she orchestrates an exhilarating conversation with tech luminaries: Charlie Kieszkiewicz, Consultant Software Engineer at Daemon; Anna Woodhouse, Enterprise Account Executive at AWS; and the dynamic Amy Woolf, owner of Woolf Partnership. During this episode, we take you on a captivating journey through the ever-evolving landscape of the tech industry. Brace yourselves for an insightful discussion on the pivotal role women play in shaping the tech world and the profound transformations witnessed over time. Our guests share their personal stories, insights, and strategies on how we can collectively encourage and support a more inclusive demographic in the tech realm.
Ep. 10 Navigating 2024 Trends: In this exclusive episode of the Daemon Drumbeat, our host VT sits down with the visionaries behind Daemon, founders Steve and Calum. Join us for an insightful chat as they discuss the exciting trends shaping the technological landscape in 2024, from standardizing platforms to the far-reaching realms of artificial intelligence. Discover how these trends can be harnessed to your advantage, and gain a strategic understanding of where your business might need support in the coming year. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the tech scene, this episode provides actionable insights to plan for a successful 2024. Get ready for a dynamic conversation filled with optimism and anticipation as Steve and Calum share their perspectives on the forthcoming year.
Ep. 9 Navigating Global Collaboration: In a special episode of The Daemon Drumbeat, we turn the tables as Nathan, Principal Consultant, steps into the host's shoes again to engage in a candid conversation with Principal Consultant, VT, our regular podcast host, to talk all things collaboration and working with different cultures. VT shares insights from his unique perspective, working from the vibrant heart of South Africa while orchestrating seamless collaboration across global teams. They explore the why and how behind this model's success, especially in serving our clients. VT and Nathan delve into the fascinating world of working with diverse cultures, emphasising the vital role of effective communication and teamwork in achieving a balance between geographic distances. Daemon's global approach isn't just a matter of logistics; it's a testament to the power of uniting different backgrounds and experiences toward common goals. 🎙️ Tune in to this episode of The Daemon Drumbeat and discover how Daemon's collaborative spirit knows no bounds, creating an energetic rhythm across continents and cultures. VT's journey is a testament to the transformative power of teamwork and communication in the modern workplace.
Ep. 8 Technology Leadership: Get ready for a masterclass in technology leadership as Nathan Webster, Principal Consultant at Daemon, steps into the host's chair for a captivating conversation with Richard Newsome, former CTO of Cancer Research and Sainsbury's, and a current Non-Executive Board Member at Daemon. In this episode of The Daemon Drumbeat, Richard takes us on a journey through his inspiring career, sharing valuable insights and wisdom acquired over decades at the forefront of technology leadership. As someone who has navigated the intricate landscapes of both nonprofit and corporate giants, his perspective is nothing short of invaluable. Richard candidly discusses the current challenges faced by technology leaders in our rapidly evolving digital age. But that's not all. Richard recognises the profound impact that mentorship and coaching have had on his own career. He passionately emphasises their role in personal and professional growth, making this episode a must-listen for aspiring leaders or anyone looking to elevate their career to the next level. 🎙️ Tune in to this episode of The Daemon Drumbeat and learn from the insights of a true technology leader.
Ep. 7 Inception: Prepare to be intrigued and inspired in the latest episode of The Daemon Drumbeat! Join your host, VT, as he engages in a captivating conversation with Fran Knight, a Consultant at Daemon, whose journey from academia to the world of coding is nothing short of fascinating. Fran, brings a unique perspective to Daemon, with a background in psychology and neuroscience. In this episode, Fran takes us on a remarkable journey as she shares her transition from being a lecturer to becoming a student once again, this time in the realm of coding and technology. VT and Fran explore the exciting intersection of neuroscience and artificial intelligence, delving into the limitless possibilities that emerge when these two fields converge. Fran's passion for understanding the human brain and applying that knowledge to AI technology is truly captivating. 🎙️ Tune in to this enlightening episode of The Daemon Drumbeat and embark on a journey that explores the boundaries of human knowledge and technological innovation. Fran's story reminds us that with curiosity and determination, we can bridge the gaps between disciplines and make a profound impact on the world.
Ep. 6 Pay It Forward: In a heartfelt episode of The Daemon Drumbeat, our host Vutlhari Rikhotso (VT) sits down for an inspiring conversation with Sam Lotze, the passionate Operations Support at Daemon. Join us as we dive into Sam's extraordinary journey, driven by her unwavering commitment to helping others. Sam's boundless enthusiasm for making a difference not only fuels her personal life but also empowers her at work. In this episode, she shares how her passion for helping people has transformed her into an efficient and empathetic professional, striving to create a positive impact in every task. Discover how Sam's dedication extends beyond her daily responsibilities as she delves into her involvement in charity activities at Daemon. Sam's enthusiasm for giving back to the community is clear, and she shares some heartwarming stories about Daemon's charitable initiatives that have touched her deeply. 🎙️ Tune in to this uplifting episode of The Daemon Drumbeat and let Sam's passion and dedication inspire you to make a difference, both in your work and in the world around you.
Ep. 5 Just Walk Out: Join host Vutlhari Rikhotso (VT) in a captivating episode of The Daemon Drumbeat, where he engages in an insightful conversation with Henry Ayres, Daemon's Head of Engineering. Together, they unravel the exciting world of Amazon Just Walk Out Technology and Daemon's expertise. VT and Henry delve into the project's intricacies, exploring the mechanics of Just Walk Out Technology and its potential to transform the retail landscape. Henry offers an insider's view, discussing challenges, breakthroughs, and the human ingenuity driving Daemon's commitment to helping our clients succeed. As Henry reflects on his career highlight, he underscores the fusion of technology and passion at Daemon. Discover the future through Henry's eyes as he envisions seamless retail experiences and simplified transactions. His perspective hints at Just Walk Out Technology's broad impact across industries beyond retail.
Ep. 4 To Infinity and Beyond: Join our host, Vutlhari Rikhotso, in an inspiring and heartfelt conversation with Jane Lockwood, Daemon's Chief of Operations, in the latest episode of The Daemon Drumbeat! In this captivating episode, we dive deep into Daemon's beating heart as Jane shares her unwavering passion for people and the pivotal role Daemonites play in shaping Daemon's success. Discover how Daemon is rewriting the rules of corporate culture by placing our employees at the core of our vision. Jane unravels the secrets behind Daemon's vibrant work environment, where flexibility and work-life balance are cherished, allowing every individual to thrive both personally and professionally. At Daemon, it's not just about working as a team; it's about creating movements that bring diverse minds together to transform how we work with each other and with our clients. Don't miss out - listen now!
Ep. 3 Teach a Man To Fish: It's here! The latest episode of the Daemon Drumbeat podcast, has just launched! Join our host and Principal Consultant, VT, in an engaging interview with our Chief of Consulting, Kyle, as they deep dive into the essence of what sets Daemon apart – our rock-solid client relationships that power our problem-solving superpowers! In this power-packed episode, you'll also get exclusive insights into the behind-the-scenes magic that drives Daemon's success, and how our team's expertise and dedication to excellence shine through in every project we undertake. Our goal is never to create dependency on us, but rather to serve as partners on your journey towards achieving technological excellence.