The Digital Executive

In this engaging episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas sits down with Kimberly Crowe, an accomplished public speaker, author, and founder of Entrepreneur's Rocket Fuel. Kimberly shares her journey from a corporate career to becoming a renowned speaker and advocate for empowering others to share their stories. She explains the importance of knowing what emotion you want your audience to feel and what action you want them to take after your talk, which are critical to audience engagement.Kimberly also discusses her online platform, Speaker's Playhouse, which connects speakers with opportunities to share their messages. She highlights the evolving nature of public speaking in the digital age, stressing the significance of interactivity and direct audience engagement to stand out in a world where information is readily available at our fingertips. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their public speaking skills and connect with audiences in meaningful ways.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas hosts Anne Kim, co-founder and CEO of Array Insights. Based on her innovative work at MIT, Anne discusses her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, driven by her desire to implement privacy-enhancing technologies in healthcare. She explores the pivotal role of federated learning and blockchain in clinical trials and patient data security, offering a primer on these technologies for the uninitiated.Anne outlines Array Insights' mission to partner with patient advocacy groups, ensuring patient engagement without compromising privacy. She also projects into the future of AI and machine learning in healthcare, envisioning a world where advanced technologies seamlessly protect patient privacy and personalize treatment. This conversation is a deep dive into the intersection of technology, privacy, and healthcare innovation.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas engages with Karla Jo Helms, the Chief Evangelist and Anti-PR Strategist at JOTO PR Disruptors. Karla Jo shares her journey from crisis management to pioneering the Anti-PR approach, a method leveraging crisis management techniques and media algorithms to safeguard and enhance the reputations of innovative startups against established giants.She discusses the strategic use of AI in public relations, emphasizing its role as an enhancer of human creativity rather than a replacement. Karla Jo explains the importance of understanding media algorithms and the balance needed between AI assistance and maintaining authentic brand messaging. This insightful conversation sheds light on the cutthroat nature of PR and the power of Anti-PR in shaping public opinion and driving company valuation.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas converses with Nick Rubright, the founder and CEO of Ranko Media. Nick shares how his background as a musician and his passion for creativity have profoundly influenced his approach to running a successful content-focused SEO and Digital PR agency. He discusses the importance of balancing SEO techniques with creative content that resonates emotionally with audiences, setting it apart in a competitive digital landscape.Nick also reveals the challenges and triumphs of scaling Ranko Media, from managing rapid growth to enhancing customer communication, and the crucial moments that shaped his journey from musician to digital marketing mogul. Moreover, Nick offers insights into future trends in SEO and digital marketing, particularly the role of AI as an assistant rather than a replacement in content creation. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in how artistic creativity merges with digital marketing strategies to drive business success.

In this illuminating episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas sits down with Roshan Shah, co-founder and CEO of Decimal Digital Currency and President of Hamilton Road Capital. Roshan delves into the strategic integration of his vast experience in real estate with innovative cryptocurrency ventures. He discusses Decimal Digital's aggressive expansion amidst the Bitcoin halving and the unique approach of their new SMA offering aimed at making Bitcoin mining accessible to a broader audience.Roshan also shares his insights on the intersections between his roles in digital currency, commercial real estate, and health and wellness, revealing how these diverse sectors complement each other and create unexpected opportunities. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the convergence of traditional business models with cutting-edge technology.

In this insightful episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, host Brian Thomas engages with Akli Adjaoute, the visionary founder of Exponion and the former CEO of Brighterion. Akli shares his remarkable journey from founding Brighterion, a company that has become a cornerstone in enterprise AI applications across various industries, to his venture capital pursuits with Exponion. He recounts the challenges faced and the resilience required to navigate the competitive landscape of artificial intelligence, emphasizing the importance of unique innovation and the power of determination rooted in his experiences as a minority entrepreneur.Brighterion, trusted by top banks and recognized with numerous awards, stands as a testament to Akli's dedication to impactful, applied AI. The conversation takes a deeper turn into the technical feats achieved by Brighterion, highlighting its unmatched transaction processing capabilities that set new industry standards.Transitioning to his role in venture capital, Akli outlines his mission to support startups that are not only technologically innovative but also ethically aligned, rejecting investments in ventures that could potentially harm society. He stresses the value of resilience, the entrepreneurial mindset, and the crucial role of mentorship in navigating the tumultuous journey of startup growth.Furthermore, Akli offers a critical perspective on the future of AI, discussing the ethical implications, potential risks, and the necessity for stringent regulation to mitigate the adverse effects of advancements in artificial intelligence. His insights into AI's impact on society, coupled with a call for ethical considerations in the rapidly evolving landscape, provide a compelling narrative on the responsibilities of technologists and entrepreneurs alike.Brian Thomas wraps up the conversation, reflecting on Akli's profound impact on the tech world and his continued influence as a mentor, investor, and advocate for ethical technology development. This episode not only highlights Akli Adjaoute's achievements and insights but also serves as a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs and technologists navigating the complex interplay of innovation, ethics, and success in the digital age.

In this enlightening episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, host Brian Thomas welcomes Vaibhav Srivastava, the visionary behind PhotoSpot, a groundbreaking platform designed to revolutionize the way photographers discover unique photo locations. With an illustrious 13-year tenure at tech giants like Meta, Pinterest, and eBay, Srivastava's shift from leading database decisions to entrepreneurship is both inspiring and insightful.PhotoSpot emerges from Srivastava's personal passion for photography and an identified gap in the travel industry, where travelers struggle to find the Instagram-worthy spots they see online on conventional travel planning websites. This platform not only aids in discovering exceptional photo spots but also integrates travel planning and photography into a seamless experience, leveraging AI to cater to the modern traveler's needs.Srivastava also shares his perspective on the evolving role of technology in enhancing the creative process for photographers of all levels, emphasizing the importance of discovery and composition in capturing the perfect shot. As PhotoSpot prepares to introduce new features and expansions, including an AI-based trip planner and partnerships with local tour guides, Srivastava's journey from a tech leader to a pioneering entrepreneur is a compelling narrative of innovation, creativity, and the relentless pursuit of filling an unmet demand in the market.

In this inspiring episode of The Digital Executive, Aggie Tuxhorn, a seasoned marketing professional and the Senior Vice President, Chief Growth Officer at Citizens Bank of Edmond, shares her journey and insights into the banking sector's evolving landscape. With over a decade of experience, Aggie's transition to Citizens Bank was sparked by an unexpected encounter and subsequent mentorship with Jill Castilla, the bank's CEO, during an awards ceremony in New York. This pivotal moment led her to seize a unique opportunity to amplify her impact within the industry, moving from a larger organization to a community-focused bank where innovation and customer engagement are paramount.Aggie discusses the critical strategies for expanding market presence, emphasizing the importance of understanding the target audience, differentiating from competitors, and adopting an integrated marketing approach. She highlights the necessity of patience and consistency in marketing efforts, debunking the myth of instant success in new markets.Leveraging technology, particularly social media, has been instrumental in enhancing Citizens Bank of Edmond's growth and visibility. Aggie underscores the role of social media in shaping the bank's narrative and expanding its reach, praising Jill Castilla's pioneering use of the platform to connect with customers transparently and authentically.Looking ahead, Aggie is particularly excited about the launch of ROGER, a digital banking platform dedicated to serving the military community. This initiative reflects Citizens Bank's commitment to 'do good, do well,' aligning with Aggie's personal and professional ethos. Through strategic marketing and community-focused projects, Aggie Tuxhorn is poised to drive significant growth and innovation at Citizens Bank of Edmond, contributing to the broader goal of serving and supporting underserved communities.Join us as Aggie Tuxhorn delves into the nuances of strategic marketing in the banking sector, her collaborative efforts with a visionary leadership team, and her dedication to impactful projects like ROGER, all aimed at fostering community engagement and financial empowerment.

In an illuminating episode of The Digital Executive, Arthur Petropoulos, Founder and Managing Partner of Hill View Partners, shares his insightful journey from a distinguished Wall Street career to establishing a boutique firm that caters to the unique needs of privately held companies. With over a billion in transaction value to his name, Arthur identified a critical gap in the market for family, entrepreneur, and small investment group owned companies seeking mergers and acquisitions and capital advisory services. He founded Hill View Partners in 2016 to offer a more efficient, targeted approach to these services, moving away from the inefficient "pray and spray" method prevalent in the industry.Arthur discusses how emerging technology has revolutionized the way Hill View Partners operates, enhancing the firm's ability to diagnose company inefficiencies, optimize operations, and scale businesses more organically. Leveraging technology for global collaboration and automating services has allowed for unparalleled growth and efficiency in serving their clients' needs.The podcast delves deep into the strategies that have made Hill View Partners successful in navigating the complexities of over 100 transactions. Arthur emphasizes the importance of a meticulous, process-oriented approach, combining the best of traditional business practices with cutting-edge technology to optimize outcomes for their clients.Arthur's transition from Wall Street to entrepreneurship has taught him valuable lessons about the necessity of embracing discomfort and uncertainty. He highlights the importance of persistence, faith, and the willingness to endure long journeys toward success, sharing personal reflections on the entrepreneurial experience and the fulfillment it brings.This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and finance professionals alike, offering profound insights into the world of mergers and acquisitions, the transformative impact of technology in finance, and the resilience required to chart one's own path in the business world.

In this episode of The Digital Executive, we're joined by Parker Ence, a serial tech entrepreneur with a rich background that spans teaching guitar to leading innovative tech companies. Parker shares his journey from a guitar teacher to becoming the CEO and co-founder of Jump, a company that leverages AI to revolutionize the financial advisory sector. Parker's diverse experiences have shaped his unique approach to leadership and innovation, emphasizing the importance of dedication, creativity, and understanding customer needs.Parker delves into the origins of Jump, initially aimed at assisting B2B sales teams with AI tools before a pivotal shift towards serving financial advisors. This transformation was sparked by the realization that financial advisors faced significant challenges in managing client information and compliance data. By focusing on the financial advisory niche, Jump aims to streamline advisors' workflows, enabling them to serve more clients efficiently and with personalized care.The conversation further explores how Jump utilizes the latest in generative AI technology to assist financial advisors in managing client meetings, compliance, and follow-ups, significantly reducing the time and effort required for these tasks. Parker envisions a future where AI enhances the advisor-client relationship rather than replacing it, allowing advisors to serve a broader range of clients effectively.Lastly, Parker shares insights on emerging trends in AI, finance, and technology, stressing the importance of advisors adopting AI to augment their services and reach previously underserved client segments. His perspective highlights a future where technology and human expertise combine to provide more inclusive financial advisory services, making it an exciting time to innovate in software and AI.Join us for this inspiring episode as Parker Ence discusses the intersection of technology and financial services, providing valuable lessons on innovation, entrepreneurship, and the transformative power of AI in enhancing client relationships and expanding service capabilities in the financial advisory industry.

In this enlightening episode of The Digital Executive, we are joined by Davin Wedel, the visionary Founder and President of Global Protection Corp. For over three decades, Wedel has been at the forefront of public health innovation, steering his company to become a trusted name in sexual health and safety. Starting from his college days at Tufts University amid the AIDS crisis, Wedel was driven to change the perception of condom use from taboo to a norm as essential and socially acceptable as toothpaste. He shares the transformative journey of making condoms accessible and appealing through creative marketing and social acceptance strategies.Davin delves into the company's history of pioneering firsts in the condom industry, from introducing humor to designing groundbreaking products like glow-in-the-dark condoms, custom-fit options, and the world's first graphene condoms, enhancing comfort, and natural feel. He highlights how leveraging emerging technologies and manufacturing innovations has allowed Global Protection Corp to deliver high-quality, diverse products efficiently and affordably.For aspiring entrepreneurs in health, wellness, and technology sectors, Wedel offers invaluable advice. He emphasizes the importance of listening to customers, solving problems, maintaining a startup mentality, and striving for win-win business relationships. His insights into overcoming societal barriers and leveraging innovation for public health make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their field. Join us for a conversation that illuminates the path from entrepreneurial vision to global health advancement.

In this enlightening episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas engages with Refael Kubersky, a distinguished figure in international relations with a rich background working for the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction and a passion for migration technology and the global rise of populism. A Georgetown School of Foreign Service alumnus, Kubersky shares his journey from public policy to documentary filmmaking, highlighting the human impacts of U.S. foreign policy through his work on the documentary "Allies Left Behind," which sheds light on the plight of Afghans who assisted the U.S. during its two-decade presence in Afghanistan but were left behind due to bureaucratic visa processes.Kubersky also delves into the critical role of technology in diplomacy and global governance, exemplified by the U.S. research monkey shortage crisis post-COVID-19, underscoring the importance of international cooperation and technological advancements in addressing global challenges. Through his experiences and insights, Kubersky offers invaluable advice for those aspiring to enter the field of international relations, emphasizing the importance of broad experiences, understanding foreign cultures, and the critical analysis of technology's influence on information dissemination and public policy. Join us as we explore the intersections of technology, accountability, and global diplomacy with Refael Kubersky on The Digital Executive.

In an insightful episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas explores the innovative world of social media and intergenerational communication with Brielle Wohlenhaus, the visionary founder of CrossGen Media and a leading voice for Generation Z. Brielle shares her journey of eschewing traditional social media for LinkedIn, a platform she believes in for building a future while engaging professionally and effectively. Her mission is to empower individuals across all generations to bridge communication gaps, foster resilient mindsets, and leverage LinkedIn to its fullest potential.Wohlenhaus delves into the genesis of CrossGen Media, pinpointing the prevalent generational disconnects in communication as her catalyst. She emphasizes the importance of using LinkedIn not just for networking but as a tool for genuine engagement and brand building. Brielle offers tangible strategies for businesses to enhance intergenerational communication, stressing the need for effective communication skills as foundational for success in any professional and personal capacity.Highlighting her expertise in content creation, Brielle shares her approach to resonating with a diverse audience. Authenticity and relatability emerge as her content creation hallmarks, alongside practical advice for maximizing engagement through compelling storytelling and strategic messaging. Looking ahead, Wohlenhaus underscores the imminent role of AI in shaping the future of social media marketing and urges businesses to adopt innovative thinking to stay competitive.This episode serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their LinkedIn strategy, improve their communication skills across generations, and stay ahead in the rapidly evolving landscape of social media marketing.

In this compelling episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas delves into the world of telecommunications and security with Alex Quilici, CEO of YouMail and a pioneering force in the fight against robocalls. With a PhD in computer science and over 30 patents to his name, Quilici has spent more than two decades at the forefront of technological innovation. He shares his journey with YouMail, a company that has been dedicated to enhancing communication safety through its free robocall blocking app and call protection service since 2007. Quilici highlights two patents he's particularly proud of: communication fingerprinting for detecting bad phone numbers and using speech recognition to access internet information. These innovations underline YouMail’s strategic approach to combating unwanted calls and securing communications.Under Quilici's leadership, YouMail has not only survived but thrived through perseverance and strategic pivots, evolving from a voicemail service to a robust call-blocking solution. The Robocall Index, launched by YouMail, stands out as a testament to the company's impact, offering unprecedented insights into robocall trends and fueling policy changes. Quilici discusses the role of AI in enhancing telecommunications security and foresees its potential to preemptively identify and neutralize threats in real-time. His vision for leveraging AI to protect vulnerable populations from scams underscores a commitment to using technology for societal good. This episode is a deep dive into the challenges and innovations in the ongoing battle against robocalls, offering inspiration for entrepreneurs and technologists alike.

In this enlightening episode of The Digital Executive, Brian Thomas sits down with Brian White, the visionary Chief Revenue Officer and co-founder of Doorspace. With a rich background of 14 years in business development and B2B software sales, White shares the transformative strategies and pivotal moments that propelled his journey from a Series B startup employee to leading a company to unicorn status, achieving a valuation of $1 billion. White reveals the essence of building strategic partnerships, cultivating a customer-centric approach, and instilling a culture of trust and empowerment within an organization. As Doorspace continues to innovate within the healthcare sector, leveraging AI to address burnout and improve the working lives of healthcare professionals, White's insights offer invaluable lessons on leadership, innovation, and the power of a purpose-driven mission. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring leaders and anyone interested in the intersection of technology and societal impact.

In this insightful episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, host Brian Thomas delves into the innovative world of Paul Wnek, a Salesforce virtuoso and entrepreneurial force behind Coalescence Cloud and Expand AP. With an impressive track record of 14 Salesforce certifications, Paul has carved a niche in the B2B solutions arena, emphasizing CRM, ERP, and automated financial solutions. Coalescence Cloud, a Salesforce consulting partner, and Expand AP, a pioneering expense and AP automation application, stand as testaments to Paul's expertise and vision in harnessing technology to streamline complex financial operations.Paul's journey from working in accounts payable to founding companies that solve critical inefficiencies in financial processes showcases his ability to identify and bridge gaps in the market. His story is particularly compelling, revealing the challenges and triumphs of starting a venture during uncertain times, armed with credit cards and a relentless spirit. Expand AP's unique position as a Salesforce-native application addresses a significant industry need for integrated expense management, a gap Paul recognized through his firsthand experience.The conversation also explores the future of business systems technology, highlighting the potential of AI and machine learning to automate and refine processes further. Paul's insights into the evolving landscape offer valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs and technologists alike.As Coalescence Cloud prepares to support the official launch of Expand AP, Paul shares exciting developments on the horizon, including innovative features like outbound payments and vendor risk assessments. This episode not only celebrates Paul Wnek's entrepreneurial journey but also provides a glimpse into the future of financial automation and efficiency, making it a must-listen for professionals in the Salesforce ecosystem and beyond.

In this engaging episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, host Brian Thomas dives into the inspiring journey of Ralf Sander, the visionary founder and Chief Gelato Officer of Gimme Gelato. Launching the business in 2018, Sander transformed his passion for traditional gelato making by integrating cutting-edge technology, setting a new standard in the culinary world. From his roots in brewing and marketing to a pivotal sabbatical that led him to discover his love for gelato, Sander shares how Gimme Gelato came to offer an innovative, zero-waste, and technologically advanced experience with its mobile vans across Germany.Listeners will gain insights into Sander's approach to maintaining the artisanal quality of gelato while leveraging technology for sustainability and enhanced customer experience. He highlights how technology supports every aspect of the business, from cloud-based recipe management to AI-driven staffing solutions, emphasizing the balance between tradition and innovation. Sander's story is a testament to the power of passion, craftsmanship, and technology in creating a successful, forward-thinking business. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and anyone interested in the intersection of food, technology, and sustainability.

In this compelling episode of The Digital Executive, host Brian Thomas engages with Matt Tinney, Chief of Strategic Growth Partnerships at Windows Management Experts (WME), to explore the depths of cybersecurity, compliance, and strategic partnerships in the IT sector. With over 30 years of experience, Tinney shares his journey from the founder of WME to leading the charge in strategic growth and innovation, highlighting the constant evolution in the field of cybersecurity and the pivotal role of advanced technologies like AI and generative intelligence. WME, known for its leadership in cybersecurity and compliance, offers a range of services from project delivery to managed services, with a strong focus on Microsoft security solutions.Tinney emphasizes the importance of core values such as collaboration, integrity, and open-mindedness in driving WME's success. He discusses the significance of strategic partnerships in navigating the complex landscape of IT and cybersecurity, outlining how WME cultivates relationships that align with its mission to empower businesses with cutting-edge solutions. Tinney also shares success stories demonstrating WME's expertise in sectors with stringent regulatory and compliance requirements, showcasing their comprehensive approach to IT services and solutions.Looking towards the future, Tinney predicts that cybersecurity and compliance will continue to evolve rapidly, with a greater need for agility and proactive measures. WME's strategy includes continuous education, leveraging advanced technologies, and engaging with regulatory bodies to stay ahead of these changes. This episode is a deep dive into how strategic partnerships and a forward-looking approach are crucial for staying at the forefront of cybersecurity and compliance, offering valuable insights for IT professionals and businesses alike.

In an insightful episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, Brian Thomas hosts John Mannino, the Chief Compliance Officer at sFOX, who brings a wealth of experience from over two decades at Goldman Sachs to the dynamic world of cryptocurrency. Mannino discusses his transition from the traditional finance sector to the cutting-edge realm of crypto, emphasizing the similarities between derivatives markets and cryptocurrencies in terms of utility, technology, and mathematics. He highlights how his background in regulatory compliance and operations has been instrumental in navigating the evolving landscape of digital assets at sFOX.Mannino delves into the factors driving institutional adoption of cryptocurrencies, including the growing acceptance of digital assets as a new class, portfolio diversification, client demand, and the development of institutional infrastructure like custody solutions. He explains how sFOX's Wyoming-based trust company offers bankruptcy-protected, regulated custody services, addressing the challenges seen in the crypto space with entities like FTX.Furthermore, Mannino offers predictions on the future of cryptocurrency regulation, pointing to international advancements and the need for the U.S. to catch up. He cites the European Union's MICA legislation and the bipartisan Loomis-Gillibrand bill in the U.S. as hopeful signs for creating a clearer regulatory framework. Finally, Mannino stresses the importance of compliance and risk management in fostering growth and ensuring security within the crypto industry, drawing lessons from traditional finance to apply to the decentralized finance (DeFi) world.This episode is a must-listen for enthusiasts and professionals interested in the intersection of compliance, traditional finance, and the burgeoning field of cryptocurrency, providing a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the digital finance landscape.

In this engaging episode of The Digital Executive Podcast, Brian Thomas converses with Scott Carlson, the innovative mind behind Vans General Store, a creative collective renowned for its groundbreaking work in digital strategy, storytelling, and integrated marketing. Delving into the origins of Vans General Store, Scott shares its evolution from a traditional advertising approach to a pioneering model that harnesses a diverse array of talents—from architects to lighting designers—to solve client challenges uniquely. This approach has not only attracted high-profile clients like Pepsi and Hulu but has also led to creating impactful and authentic brand experiences.Scott discusses the importance of collaboration and aligning with clients who share the collective’s creative vision and values, emphasizing an approach termed "regenerative media," which maximizes a core idea into a plethora of creative outputs within budget constraints. Looking towards the future, success for Vans General Store is defined by team happiness, client satisfaction, creative output, and the ability to attract innovative thinkers.Additionally, Scott highlights the balance between leveraging new technologies, like AI, and maintaining the creative spark that drives the agency. The podcast wraps up with insights into how Vans General Store, blending elements of a general store, art gallery, and advertising agency, organically creates unique brand narratives and immersive experiences for its clients. This episode is a must-listen for those intrigued by the future of creative industries and the power of innovation in storytelling and advertising.