Scaling Data-Driven Digital Companies & Promoting Diversity With John Cushing The Lucent Perspective podcast

1:04:09

In this episode, Rebecca Hastings sits down with John Rossman — former Amazon executive, Managing Partner at Rossman Partners, and author of Big Bet Leadership and The Amazon Way series. They unpack what it really takes to drive transformation in high-stakes, high-ambiguity environments. John draws from his time launching and scaling the Amazon Marketplace and his advisory work with Fortune 500 leaders to explain how bold ambition, when paired with strategic discipline, is the winning formula for transformation that delivers. Whether you’re a founder at a fast-growing AI startup or a C-suite exec navigating transformation at scale, this episode arms you with a practical toolkit for making confident decisions and leading change that sticks. Topics Covered: Why “big bets” aren’t about gambling — they’re about calibrating ambition with controlled risk The concept of the Big Bet Vector — clarity on the problem + clarity on the future state Avoiding transformation theatre and analysis paralysis Why velocity beats perfection in decision-making Systems thinking, wicked problems, and the power of the “Three Futures” exercise Common reasons transformations fail — and how to avoid them Episode Highlights: 00:57 — Intro to John Rossman and “Big Bet Leadership” 03:10 — Are we in uniquely turbulent times? (Spoiler: not really.) 05:48 — Why companies stall despite big ambitions 08:25 — The real questions leaders must answer before executing transformation 13:11 — What kind of leaders thrive during transformation? 17:32 — The Three Futures exercise for effective executive alignment 23:41 — The danger of “all hat, no cattle” innovation 26:30 — How to manage a portfolio of big bets effectively 31:48 — Playing chess, not checkers: systems thinking in action 34:52 — Financial projections vs. outcome-based thinking 38:57 — Why many transformations fail before they start 41:07 — Big Bet GPT: John’s AI-powered strategy tool 42:19 — Why speed matters more than ever About John Rossman: John Rossman is the Managing Partner at Rossman Partners, a former Amazon executive, and the author of the bestsellers Think Like Amazon and Big Bet Leadership . At Amazon, he led the launch of the Amazon Marketplace. Today, he advises leaders at global enterprises on strategy execution, digital transformation, and innovation leadership. 🔗 Resources & Links: John’s Book: Big Bet Leadership Lucent AI Salary Guides: https://bit.ly/DataAILeadershipGuide2025 Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How to Build AI Startups That Cut Through the Noise with Varun Nair, CTO at That Works 52:56

19 days ago52:56

52:56

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings is joined by Varun Nair , Co-Founder and CTO at That Works —an AI-powered workspace tackling the chaos of modern work by eliminating noise from meetings, messages, and manual status updates. With over 15 years of experience spanning startup exits, team-building at Meta, and investing in AI-first ventures, Varun shares how to move faster, build smarter, and avoid the common traps in early-stage product development. They dive into what makes AI startups succeed (or fail), how “done is better than perfect” still applies—if you execute it right—and why most tools miss the mark on real team productivity. If you're building in AI, trying to scale a SaaS product, or pitching in today’s competitive investor landscape, this episode is full of clarity and practical wisdom. Topics Covered: Why “move fast” is essential for AI founders—but so is product quality What Varun learned going from startup founder to Meta engineering leader How to balance data-driven thinking with human intuition The myth of perfect positioning—and how to actually stand out to investors Why most team tools create noise, not clarity Frameworks for testing fast, shipping faster, and learning quickly What to do when traction is “mid” and VCs want top-tier growth How to know if your co-founder dynamic is your greatest strength Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Intro to Varun Nair & That Works 02:00 – From Two Big Ears to Meta: scaling product & mindset 04:37 – Startup vs. Big Tech: how priorities shift 08:09 – Lessons from Meta: data, positioning & product clarity 11:54 – Startup #2: prioritization over hustle 16:56 – The real problem with dashboards, meetings & Slack 25:35 – Why shipping fast is still the smartest move 30:34 – Launching AI products: speed vs. substance 33:48 – What investors actually look for in AI startups 41:09 – Fundraising: qualifying VCs & avoiding pitch fatigue 48:43 – Varun’s advice for founders: detail, gut-feel & staying close to users About Varun Varun Nair is Co-Founder and CTO of That Works , an AI workspace that helps teams work smarter by cutting through the noise. Previously, he co-founded Two Big Ears (acquired by Meta), where he went on to lead product and platform engineering for immersive and AI technologies. He now advises AI startups across Europe and the US and writes regularly on how teams and products can scale with clarity, not chaos. 👉 Connect with Varun on LinkedIn Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How Agent AI Scaled to 1.4M Users: Building for Non-Tech Builders with Andrei Opirsan 53:19

5 weeks ago53:19

53:19

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings is joined by Andrei Opirsan , Head of Engineering at Agent AI—a platform redefining no-code AI. With over 15 years’ experience leading technical innovation at startups and tech giants like Wayfair and HubSpot, Andrei shares the engineering, architectural, and leadership choices that powered Agent AI’s explosive growth to 1.4 million users in under a year. They discuss how Agent AI empowers non-technical users to build intelligent agents, the challenges of orchestrating AI at scale, and why small teams often outperform larger ones. If you're navigating AI adoption, scaling a SaaS platform, or managing high-performance tech teams, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Topics Covered Agent AI’s user growth: From zero to 1.4M in less than a year Key technical and product decisions that enabled fast scaling Designing platforms for both no-code and technical users Modular system architecture and continuous testing at scale Human-in-the-loop design and agent orchestration challenges How small teams build faster and stronger cultures Hiring for ambiguity, versatility, and ownership Strategic decisions behind building vs. integrating AI tools Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Intro to Andrei Opirsan & Agent AI 02:00 – The 3 pillars behind Agent AI’s growth 06:00 – Building for no-code and technical users 09:00 – When to build AI agents from scratch vs. integrate 11:00 – Agent orchestration and managing scale 15:00 – Testing, architecture reviews, and moving fast 21:00 – Small teams vs. large: Agility and ownership 24:30 – Traits to hire for in a startup environment 28:00 – Leadership shift: From doing to enabling 33:00 – How they manage distributed teams & alignment 36:30 – Metrics that matter beyond vanity user numbers 37:50 – Trust, AI in hiring, and identity verification About Andrei Andrei Opirsan is Head of Engineering at Agent AI and a co-founder of OneScreen.AI. With a background in scaling engineering teams and platforms at companies like Wayfair, Liberty Mutual, and HubSpot, he blends technical depth with product strategy. At Agent AI, he’s leading the charge in making AI agent-building accessible, scalable, and impactful—especially for non-technical users. Connect with Andrei on LinkedIn Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
Scaling SaaS Globally: Lessons in Pricing, People & Product with Lucas Lovell 48:38

9 weeks ago48:38

48:38

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings speaks with Lucas Lovell , VP of Product at Paddle . Lucas shares the behind-the-scenes story of how Paddle scaled from a growing fintech to a global leader in payments infrastructure—including navigating a major acquisition, evolving pricing models, and hiring talent for scale. Lucas offers insights into how AI is reshaping SaaS pricing strategies, what makes global expansion successful, and why product-led companies must strike a balance between scrappiness and operational maturity. Key Topics Covered How to scale a SaaS company with intention and avoid common growing pains The impact of AI on SaaS pricing—and whether subscriptions are really dying What product leaders should focus on to drive growth The importance of adaptability when hiring at different stages of scale Lessons from merging Paddle with a US-based company How AI tools are lowering the barrier to innovation and redefining team capabilities Tips for companies thinking about talent pipelines, upskilling, and hiring former founders Episode Highlights [00:59] Lucas’ background and journey from founder to VP of Product at Paddle [02:25] Challenges of scaling from 90 to 300 employees [06:41] Hiring for growth phases and balancing startup mindset with operational rigor [13:55] Lessons learned from acquiring a US-based company [19:45] Why SaaS pricing models are evolving, not disappearing [26:48] The biggest mistakes companies make when pricing their product [30:34] Where pricing roles typically sit in SaaS companies—and why it matters [32:36] Are we risking a “lost generation” of talent? [36:59] Why AI is lowering the barrier to entrepreneurship [39:25] How Paddle is helping its teams stay current and experiment with AI [43:00] Advice for scaling SaaS globally with intention [44:39] Why hiring former founders can be a major asset About Lucas Lovell Lucas Lovell is the Vice President of Product at Paddle. Prior to Paddle, he co-founded Hopstay, an international travel tech company. With years of experience scaling product and engineering teams, Lucas now plays a key role in shaping Paddle’s global growth strategy, talent development, and pricing innovation. 📌 Connect with Lucas: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Paddle Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How Businesses Can Make Smarter AI Investments with Oliver King Smith 59:14

11 weeks ago59:14

59:14

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings speaks with Oliver King Smith, founder of SmartR.AI. His company specializes in transforming raw data into behavioral intelligence, with expertise spanning AI-powered decision-making, machine learning, and embedded systems. Oliver shares insights on how businesses can navigate AI investments, avoid common pitfalls, and measure ROI effectively. He also discusses how AI models are evolving in 2025 and what leaders should focus on when implementing AI solutions. Key Topics Covered How businesses should approach AI investments. The most common mistakes companies make when implementing AI. Why AI should be seen as assistive intelligence, not artificial intelligence. The risks of AI model poisoning and how to mitigate them. Why private AI models are becoming more attractive to enterprises. How organizations can measure AI success beyond ROI. The growing divide in AI adoption between the US and Europe. Episode Highlights [00:57] Oliver King Smith’s background and expertise in AI. [02:25] Why businesses struggle to measure AI ROI. [06:13] The biggest mistakes companies make when investing in AI. [08:44] Why AI projects often fail and how to set them up for success. [14:30] The role of private AI models in protecting sensitive data. [20:32] How AI hallucinations impact decision-making and how to control them. [24:26] The risks of AI model poisoning and how companies can safeguard against it. [29:19] How organizations can measure AI success beyond immediate ROI. [35:54] The evolving role of HR in AI adoption. [38:15] The impact of AI on hiring, talent retention, and job roles. [41:51] The future of AI hardware and how businesses can prepare. [47:26] How to balance human expertise with AI-driven decision-making. About Oliver King Smith Oliver King Smith is the founder of SmartR.AI, a company dedicated to optimizing AI-powered decision-making. With a background in machine learning, AI automation, and data-efficient reinforcement learning, Oliver has helped businesses navigate AI investments and strategy. 📌 Connect with Oliver : 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 SmartR.AI Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How Technologists Can Become Effective Leaders with Vladimir Baranov 40:39

14 weeks ago40:39

40:39

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings speaks with Vladimir Baranov , an exited founder, CTO, and executive coach. With experience spanning fintech, wealth tech, aerospace, and AI-driven space technologies, he has co-founded and scaled multiple companies, including AdvisorEngine, later acquired by Franklin Templeton. Now, through Human Interfaces , he helps founders and executives improve leadership skills to run businesses effectively. Vladimir shares why technologists struggle in leadership, the most common mistakes founders make, and how to develop leadership skills for long-term success. Key Topics Covered How technologists can transition into leadership. How to identify high-potential leaders in technical teams. How leadership development is often overlooked. How communication affects leadership success. How perfectionism holds back technical founders. How personal branding impacts leadership and hiring. Episode Highlights [00:57] Vladimir Baranov’s background and leadership expertise. [02:25] How technologists struggle when stepping into leadership. [06:13] How to identify and develop future leaders. [08:44] How temporary leadership roles test managerial fit. [14:30] How to demonstrate leadership skills early. [20:32] How Vladimir transitioned from technologist to coach. [24:26] How fintech vs. aerospace leadership styles differ. [26:58] How perfectionism slows down founders. [29:19] How communication strengthens leadership. [31:51] How personal branding helps attract top talent. [35:54] How technologists can take control of career growth. [38:15] How founders can align their leadership teams. [39:18] How to connect with Vladimir for coaching. About Vladimir Baranov Vladimir Baranov is an exited founder, CTO, and executive coach with two decades of experience in fintech, aerospace, and AI-driven space technologies. Through Human Interfaces , he helps founders and executives scale businesses and develop leadership skills. 📌 Connect with Vladimir: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Human Interfaces – Book a free discovery session Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
Top Tips For Managing Organizational Change with Leisa Docherty 19:36

15 weeks ago19:36

19:36

In this bonus episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings speaks with Leisa Docherty , an experienced Chief People Officer , Executive Coach , and HR transformation expert . Leisa has led HR strategies, business acquisitions, and cultural transformations at companies like Sage, Aspire Technology Solutions, and Causeway Technologies . She shares insights on navigating organizational change, AI integration, and leadership alignment . Key Topics Covered Structuring successful company integrations post-acquisition Why clear communication is vital during transitions Signs it’s time to rethink organizational structures How AI is reshaping HR and People Ops Common restructuring pitfalls and how to avoid them Leadership’s role in driving meaningful change Managing employee expectations and morale through transitions Episode Highlights [01:41] How to set up a successful post-acquisition integration [03:35] The importance of proactive and transparent communication [06:05] Key indicators for organizational restructuring [07:57] Why leadership alignment is critical during transformation [09:48] How AI is reshaping HR and business operations [10:52] Common disruptions and how to prepare for them [12:20] Building leadership skills to effectively drive change [15:54] Best practices for managing morale and expectations [17:18] Preparing for emerging roles and AI-driven shifts [18:34] Where to connect with Leisa for further insights About Leisa Docherty Leisa Docherty is a Chief People Officer , Executive Coach , and HR transformation expert with experience in M&A, organizational design, and leadership coaching . She helps businesses scale successfully while ensuring effective people strategies. 📌 Connect with Leisa: 🔗 LinkedIn Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How Agentic AI is Changing Business and Leadership with Gary Crawford 51:47

17 weeks ago51:47

51:47

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings speaks with Gary Crawford , an AI strategy expert and Founder of Owendale Advisory , a consultancy helping businesses adapt to the intelligence era. With rapid AI advancements, including agentic AI , businesses face new challenges and opportunities. Gary shares insights on AI-driven organizations, leadership evolution, and talent strategies in a changing landscape. He explores AI’s impact on hiring, business transformation, and strategic decision-making . Key Topics Covered What agentic AI is and how it differs from traditional AI. Why AI is moving from a tool to an autonomous workforce contributor. The impact of AI-driven automation on hiring and career development. How businesses should rethink talent strategies as AI expands. Why leadership teams must understand AI beyond the buzzwords. How agentic AI is shaping finance, healthcare, and software. Risks of delaying AI adoption and why hesitation is costly. The future of AI in business models and organizational structures. Episode Highlights [00:57] Introduction to Gary Crawford and his AI strategy expertise. [02:33] What agentic AI is and how it operates autonomously. [04:39] Why AI adoption is a business transformation, not just a tech shift. [06:48] How AI is disrupting hiring and reshaping talent strategies. [10:49] The risks of over-relying on AI for decision-making. [15:08] How AI is transforming traditionally slow-adopting industries. [22:53] Common misconceptions about AI and its business impact. [31:12] Structural and cultural shifts businesses must prepare for. [35:53] Why delaying AI adoption could leave companies behind. [40:52] How leaders can strategically experiment with AI. [47:31] Final thoughts on AI’s impact on leadership and strategy. About Gary Crawford Gary Crawford is the Founder & Chief Advisor at Owendale Advisory , where he helps businesses align AI opportunities with strategic goals. With a background in working with C-level executives, boards, and leadership teams, Gary specializes in AI transformation, business strategy, and executive coaching . His experience spans financial services, healthcare, energy, public sector, and retail , making him a sought-after advisor on AI-driven innovation. 📌 Connect with Gary: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Owendale Advisory Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How to Leverage AI Agents for Smarter Workflows with Sam Mallikarjunan 48:19

18 weeks ago48:19

48:19

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings speaks with Sam Mallikarjunan , General Manager at Agent.ai . Sam shares insights into how AI agents are revolutionizing work, streamlining decision-making, and enhancing productivity. Drawing from his experience as CEO at OneScreen AI, Chief Revenue Officer at Flock, and Head of Growth at HubSpot Labs, Sam explores the practical applications of AI agents and how businesses can leverage them effectively. Key Topics Covered Why AI agents are changing the way we interact with SaaS tools. Common misconceptions businesses have about AI implementation. How AI agents are helping companies improve efficiency and reduce workload. The impact of AI agents on learning and development. AI-driven automation in sales, support, and communication. Challenges of integrating AI into organizations and ensuring widespread adoption. The future of AI agents in business and personal productivity. Episode Highlights [00:58] Introduction to Sam Mallikarjunan and his background in AI, growth, and business strategy. [02:24] Why businesses need to rethink AI adoption and avoid past digital transformation mistakes. [04:13] Unique ways AI agents are enhancing learning, communication, and decision-making. [06:29] How Agent AI's team is using AI agents to manage workload and improve efficiency. [09:26] The power of customizable AI agents in sales, recruitment, and talent acquisition. [12:30] The shift towards AI-augmented teams and the evolving role of professionals. [17:00] The vision for Agent AI: democratizing AI access and enabling custom-built solutions. [22:25] The role of AI in user research and product development. [28:54] How AI agents can free up time for strategic thinking and innovation. [35:06] Lessons from HubSpot: growing a company while focusing on people and customers. [43:22] The future of AI agents: reducing costs, improving performance, and reshaping SaaS. [46:11] Where to learn more about Agent AI and connect with Sam. About Sam Mallikarjunan Sam Mallikarjunan is the General Manager at Agent.ai , a company focused on democratizing access to AI agents for businesses and individuals. With previous leadership roles at OneScreen AI, Flock, and HubSpot Labs, Sam has extensive experience in growth, revenue strategy, and AI-driven innovation. His work centers on enabling organizations to build and customize AI tools that drive efficiency, enhance decision-making, and shape the future of work. Sam on Linkedin Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How to Leverage AI and Data Architecture for Scalable Business Success with Lucas Hendrich 53:12

25 weeks ago53:12

53:12

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , Rebecca Hastings speaks with Lucas Hendrich, Chief Technology Officer at Forte Group. Lucas brings his expertise in AI-enabled data architecture, governance, and the intersection of technology and business strategy. The discussion explores actionable steps for scaling AI projects, overcoming data challenges, and the transformative potential of extended intelligence in organizations. Key Topics Covered Transitioning AI projects from pilot to full-scale production. Common challenges in data architecture and governance. Leveraging AI to improve talent acquisition processes. Advantages and implementation considerations of data lakehouses. The concept of extended intelligence and its practical implications. Balancing innovation with business outcomes. Episode Highlights [00:56] Introduction to Lucas Hendrich and his role at Forte Group, focusing on AI-enabled data architecture and governance. [02:03] Steps for scaling AI projects and avoiding innovation for its own sake. [05:32] Data challenges in businesses, including legacy systems and overlooked analytics opportunities. [09:10] AI’s role in talent acquisition, from unstructured data to assessing candidate fit. [12:22] Guardrails for AI adoption and the ubiquity of tools like ChatGPT. [20:26] Using data to shape team personas and enhance performance management. [27:14] Real-time analytics and the benefits of adopting data lakehouses. [36:16] Extended intelligence as a framework for enhancing human decision-making. [50:08] The importance of aligning AI initiatives with clear business objectives. [51:55] Lucas’s key advice: engineer toward results, not technology for its own sake. About Lucas Hendrich Lucas Hendrich is the Chief Technology Officer at Forte Group, where he specializes in AI-enabled data architecture and governance. With a career spanning advisory roles with private equity firms and global boards, Lucas has played a pivotal role in aligning technology strategies with business goals. His work focuses on making data a strategic asset, driving efficiency, and creating scalable, future-ready systems. Lucas on LinkedIn For updates on The Lucent Perspective , subscribe to our podcast, share this episode, or leave a review. Access Lucent Group’s talent guides at www.lucent-search.com/salaryguide. Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How to Build Future-Ready Tech Leaders and Teams with Mark Herschberg 1:05:02

26 weeks ago1:05:02

1:05:02

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , we’re joined by Mark Herschberg, a technology leader, author, and MIT instructor. With over 20 years of experience in AI, cybersecurity, and innovation, Mark shares strategies for building essential leadership skills. As creator of the Brain Bump app and a fractional CTO, he explores integrating AI, fostering adaptability, and building resilient tech teams. From AI integration challenges to the human side of hiring, this episode offers insights for future-proofing careers and organizations. Key Topics Covered: The misconception that AI integration is “plug and play” and how to approach it systematically Strategies for fostering a culture of learning and adaptability within tech teams Why foundational skills like networking and negotiation are critical for leadership growth The evolving role of data literacy and its importance across all levels of an organization How AI is transforming hiring processes and where it falls short Episode Highlights: [00:57] Introduction to Mark Herschberg, his career, and his work with Brain Bump and as a fractional CTO. [03:03] Steps for rolling out AI initiatives responsibly, including pilot programs and AI councils. [06:32] Why identifying the right problems to solve is as important as solving them effectively. [12:00] Foundational skills every professional needs, and why they matter for leadership at any level. [15:51] Mark’s take on why hiring is a skill that requires ongoing training and thoughtful processes. [20:27] How to create a career plan to reach the C-suite, including identifying skills gaps and using your network. [25:18] The benefits of peer-learning programs for building team skills and collaboration. [31:11] Mark’s perspective on how AI will reshape the workforce and the skills needed to adapt. [39:06] Where AI adds value in hiring processes, and why human involvement remains irreplaceable. About Mark Herschberg: Mark Herschberg is a technology leader, author, and educator with over two decades of experience in AI, cybersecurity, and team-building. He authored The Career Toolkit: Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You and created the Brain Bump app for on-demand professional tips. Mark on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey/ Resources Mentioned: The Career Toolkit: Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You Brain Bump app: brainbumpapp.com Mark’s resource library: thecareertoolkitbook.com Podcasting and media resources: cognoscomedia.com Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
How to Hire Machine Learning Engineers and Stay On Top of AI Tech with Ron Green 50:15

29 weeks ago50:15

50:15

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , we’re joined by Ron Green, co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI. With over 20 years of experience in AI and a career dedicated to practical applications of machine learning, Ron shares his perspective on what it takes to build and lead high-performing AI teams. From hiring production-grade AI engineers to the importance of ongoing skill development, Ron provides a comprehensive guide for companies looking to harness AI effectively. Known for his work in creating custom AI solutions, Ron brings a unique approach to AI talent, emphasizing domain-specific applications and the critical role of culture in team dynamics. Key Topics Covered: The essential skills for AI engineers in production environments The importance of cultural fit and humility within AI teams Why businesses should prioritize domain-specific AI over generative AI Effective strategies for assessing AI talent beyond technical skills Future AI trends and their implications for business and talent demand Episode Highlights: [00:57] – Introduction to Ron Green, his background, and his work at KUNGFU.AI where he focuses on building custom AI solutions across industries. [02:58] – The critical components of production-grade AI, emphasizing the need for software skills in addition to AI expertise. [04:38] – Challenges in transitioning proof-of-concept projects to production, and why generative AI isn’t always the best fit for companies new to AI. [09:45] – Ron’s approach to hiring, highlighting the importance of humility, cultural fit, and adaptability in AI roles. [22:25] – Discussion of KUNGFU.AI's “Lab Day,” an initiative allowing engineers to dedicate time to staying current with AI advancements. [30:09] – Ron’s insights on domain-specific AI applications, particularly for companies beginning their AI journey. [38:10] – Future AI trends, including advancements in predictive capabilities, and how these trends will shape business strategy. About Ron Green: Ron Green is the co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI, where he leads a team of engineers focused on developing tailored AI solutions for clients across a range of industries. With a strong emphasis on practical, production-ready AI, Ron’s approach prioritizes building reliable, scalable AI models that meet specific business objectives. In addition to his role at KUNGFU.AI, Ron hosts Hidden Layers , a podcast exploring current developments in AI and offering insights for both technical and business audiences. Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
Aligning AI with Business Goals: Practical Strategies and Insights with Olga Topchaya 44:35

31 weeks ago44:35

44:35

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective , we are joined by Olga Topchaya, the founder and CEO of Lapis AI Consults. Olga shares her expertise in aligning artificial intelligence with strategic business goals, drawing from over a decade in marketing and product development. As a seasoned professional in AI integration, Olga provides practical advice on assessing company readiness for AI, strategies for successful AI implementation, and the importance of custom solutions versus off-the-shelf AI options. Her insights cover the full spectrum of AI adoption, from planning and training to scaling and overcoming barriers. Key Topics Covered: How to assess AI readiness in a company Key steps and fundamentals for successful AI implementation Misconceptions about AI in business Importance of aligning AI with strategic business goals Challenges and opportunities for women in AI Episode Highlights: [00:56] – Introduction to Olga Topchaya, her background, and the goals of Lapis AI Consults. [01:48] – Identifying the markers of an AI-ready business, including executive support, internal champions, and risk tolerance. [03:33] – Misconceptions about AI implementation, especially for mid-market companies and the role of data. [05:51] – Steps to executing AI strategies, including goal setting, defining technical requirements, and gradual rollout. [09:25] – Common challenges in scaling AI, such as cross-departmental buy-in and legacy system integration. [19:18] – The role of AI in enhancing internal collaboration and cross-functional workflows. [27:23] – Discussion on the gender gap in AI, Olga’s career transition from marketing, and advice for women entering the field. [39:08] – Guidance for professionals moving into AI from non-technical backgrounds. [42:07] – Advice for CEOs on future-proofing their companies with AI, including starting small and embracing iterative improvement. About Olga Topchaya: Olga Topchaya is the founder and CEO of Lapis AI Consults, where she leads the development of tailored AI solutions that align with client goals. With a unique blend of experience in marketing and product development, Olga transitioned into the AI sector to help businesses leverage AI effectively and strategically. Her work at Lapis AI Consults emphasizes practical and custom approaches to AI integration, particularly for companies looking to enhance productivity and customer engagement. Call to Action: Connect with Olga on LinkedIn: Olga Topchaya on LinkedIn Learn more about Lapis AI Consults at lapisconsults.com . Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
AI-Driven Content Management and Multilingual Strategies with David Meikle 43:51

33 weeks ago43:51

43:51

David Meikle, founder of Bloxweaver and a veteran in language technology, shares his insights on AI-driven content management and multilingual strategies. With extensive experience in open-source software and as a former CTO, David offers valuable perspectives on content management, AI customization, and preparing companies for exits. Key topics covered: Challenges in multilingual content management AI applications in language technology The concept of "content fabric" for global businesses Customizing AI for enterprise success Benefits of open-source contributions to career development Preparing companies for exits from a CTO's perspective Episode Highlights: [00:55] David's background in language technology and open-source software [02:11] Current challenges in multilingual content management for global businesses [05:58] How AI is addressing multilingual content challenges [08:36] The concept of "content fabric" and its importance for global businesses [11:45] Limitations of off-the-shelf large language models and the need for customization [20:45] Future developments in AI for language technology [25:57] David's experience with the Apache Software Foundation and its career impact [32:19] Balancing open-source work with professional responsibilities [34:55] Key factors for CTOs to consider when preparing a company for exit [38:01] How exit experience shaped David's approach to building Bloxweaver [39:53] Advice on considering exits from the outset of building a business [41:51] How to get involved with the Apache Software Foundation and open-source projects About David Meikle David Meikle is the founder of Bloxweaver, a company specializing in AI-driven content management and localization. With over 15 years of experience as a member of the Apache Software Foundation and a background as a CTO at companies like Lingo 24, David has been instrumental in advancing language technology and open-source software. Connect with David on LinkedIn Learn more about Bloxweaver at www.bloxweaver.com Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.…

1
The Product-to-Exit Playbook: Building, Selling, and Advising Tech Companies with Jamie Graves 1:06:06

35 weeks ago1:06:06