Shows
UntangledModern Policing & Data-Driven Leadership: A Conversation with Chief Paul NoelIn this episode of Untangled, Avero Advisors CEO Abhijit Verekar sits down with Chief Paul Noel, Knoxville’s 27th Chief of Police, to explore how visionary leadership and technology are reshaping modern policing.Knoxville Police Department Website: https://knoxvilletnpolice.gov/Chief Noel, who joined KPD in 2022 after more than 25 years with the New Orleans Police Department, has led one of the most dramatic public safety turnarounds in the country. Under his leadership, Knoxville has seen a 45% reduction in nonfatal shootings and a significant drop in homicides—results driven by data...
2025-10-031h 24
Avero GovTech InsightsAI in Government: Maturity, Risk & the Road AheadGovernments across the globe are racing to adopt AI—but are they truly ready? In this episode of the GovTech Podcast, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) unpacks the critical factors agencies must consider before implementing AI tools. From defining smart city use cases to navigating vendor risks and federal policy, this conversation goes beyond buzzwords to give you a roadmap for safe, strategic AI integration in the public sector.You’ll hear:Why an AI maturity model matters before you buy another toolReal-world case studies from Raleigh, San Jose, and DenverWhat’s coming in federal AI policy...
2025-09-2915 minAvero GovTech InsightsAI Policy & Smart Cities: What Government Leaders Need to KnowIn this GovTech Pod episode, Abhijit Verekar breaks down the latest federal policy updates on AI and what they mean for government agencies. From national security to smart cities, he explores how federal investments, public-private partnerships, and evolving regulations are shaping the AI landscape for public sector innovation.AV also highlights real-world examples—from Raleigh’s AI-powered traffic lights to San Jose’s smarter 311 systems—and explains how local governments can harness automation while protecting data, avoiding compliance pitfalls, and planning strategically.Whether you're a CIO, city manager, or digital transformation leader, this episode will help you...
2025-09-2214 minUntangledEAM in Focus: Strategic Asset Management for Modern GovernmentWhat does it take to modernize how governments manage roads, bridges, buildings—and everything in between?In this episode of Untangled, Avero Advisors CEO Abhijit Verekar sits down with Associate Consultant Caleb Cruz to break down the complexities, opportunities, and overlooked challenges in modern Enterprise Asset Management (EAM).Tune in for an insider look at:Why EAM is more than just work orders—it’s strategic financial stewardshipHow GIS, mobile access, and asset hierarchies impact implementation successThe dangers of ignoring outdated data, microservices, or homegrown systemsHow AI and machine learning are starting to sha...
2025-08-1440 minAvero GovTech InsightsBeyond Efficiency: Rethinking Government’s Role in the Age of AIIn this thought-provoking episode of the GovTech Pod, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar explores a question we don’t ask often enough: What is government really for—and how should AI change the answer?From traffic systems and housing to citizen services and workforce planning, AV unpacks what it means to lead with purpose in a moment of rapid technological change. It's not just about automation or saving time—it's about building systems rooted in abundance, equity, and human need.You’ll hear: – Why “efficiency” shouldn’t be government’s North Star – How AI might help address sca...
2025-07-2813 minUntangledTimelines, Trust & Transformation: What It Really Takes to Modernize Public Sector TechERP projects don’t fail because of software—they fail because of unrealistic timelines, poor planning, and missing advocacy. In this episode of Untangled, Avero’s Abhijit Verekar and Robert Kornovich unpack the real drivers behind successful (and unsuccessful) digital transformation efforts in the public sector.From misunderstood sunset dates to go-live myths, this conversation goes deep on:What a “realistic” transformation timeline actually looks likeThe overlooked role of change management in staying on trackHow vendor contracts can quietly derail your projectThe true cost of skipping third-party project managementWhy go-live definitions should come from your team—not your ven...
2025-07-2429 minAvero GovTech InsightsERP Isn’t Just Tech—It’s People, Process, and PlanningERP modernization in the public sector isn’t just about software—it’s a full-scale transformation that touches every part of your organization. In this GovTech Pod episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) breaks down the real-world lessons agencies can learn from large-scale projects like the UK’s £144M Workday implementation.From data governance and vendor coordination to G-Cloud procurement models and AI readiness, AV unpacks what government leaders need to plan for—before, during, and after a system rollout.Whether you’re still managing workflows in Excel or gearing up for your next big tech purchase...
2025-07-2109 minUntangledModernizing Government Finance: Insights from GFOA 2025What’s really driving the future of government finance? In this episode of Untangled, Avero’s Megan Seaton, Abhijit Verekar, and David Buchan share raw, real-time insights from the 2025 GFOA Annual Conference.From AI tools that promise the moon to procurement teams overwhelmed by legacy processes, this episode unpacks what public finance leaders are thinking—and what’s actually working. We cover:The AI hype vs. reality in ERP modernizationWhy procurement and IT strategy must evolve togetherHow consultants should add value, not delay projectsWhy soft skills matter more than ever in an AI-first worldThe future role of CFOs...
2025-07-1746 minAvero GovTech InsightsWhat the UK’s £144M ERP Transformation Can Teach U.S. Government LeadersWhat happens when one of the world’s largest ERP transformations is put under a public sector microscope?In this GovTech Pod episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar unpacks the United Kingdom’s £144M Workday initiative—an ambitious modernization effort driven by the Cabinet Office, Workday, and Cognizant—and what lessons it holds for U.S. state and local agencies.From the importance of vendor alignment to the overlooked value of legacy integration and clear success criteria, AV breaks down what’s working, what’s risky, and why this project is far more than a software rollout.
2025-07-1413 minAvero GovTech InsightsFlight Plan for ERP: What Aviation Teaches Us About Go-Live SuccessWhat do ERP implementations and aviation have in common? More than you might think.In this episode of GovTech Insights, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar is joined by ERP consultant (and licensed pilot) Isaac West to unpack how lessons from the cockpit apply directly to public sector digital transformation.From pre-flight planning to checklist discipline and mid-air course corrections, AV and Isaac draw clear parallels between flying and managing complex ERP projects—with insights that could save your agency time, money, and frustration.✈️ What we cover:Why communication breakdowns derail ERP successThe role of che...
2025-07-0713 minAvero GovTech InsightsERP Implementation: Negotiating Contracts & Avoiding Project FailuresToo many government tech projects go sideways because agencies forget one essential truth: you’re allowed to push back. In this episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) gets real about what it takes to lead a successful ERP or digital transformation—before, during, and after vendor selection.He tackles:Why it’s not “fighting” to ask tough questions—it's protecting your organizationThe danger of letting vendors define your success criteriaWhat “being blacklisted” really means—and why you shouldn’t fear itHow CHROs, CIOs, and CFOs can align priorities instead of working in silosWhy waiting until go-live to define “success”...
2025-06-3012 minUntangledBeyond the Bid: What the UK’s £144M ERP Deal Teaches Us About TransformationWhen the UK government awarded a £144 million contract to Workday and Cognizant, it wasn’t just about technology—it was a masterclass in scale, procurement efficiency, and what it takes to modernize across multiple agencies.In this episode of Untangled, Avero Advisors CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) breaks down one of the largest ERP initiatives in UK public sector history—what it means for global GovTech, and what U.S. leaders can learn from their approach.AV explores:How the UK leveraged G-Cloud to simplify procurementWhy standardization still requires flexible architectureThe hidden risks of legacy system...
2025-06-2622 minAvero GovTech InsightsERP Implementation: CFO, HR Roles and Avoiding Project PitfallsERP projects in government are rarely just about systems—they’re about people. In this episode, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar breaks down the unseen challenges that derail transformations, from vague reporting goals to unclear ownership and internal overload.You’ll hear real talk on:Why vague RFPs lead to failed reportingWhen to build an internal ERP team (and when not to)The myth of “bolt-ons” and modern system integrationWho should actually lead change managementWhy CHROs get steamrolled—and how to stop itWhether you're in finance, IT, or HR, this episode gives you the straight truth on wha...
2025-06-2314 minUntangledFlight Plan for ERP: Lessons in Leadership, Checklists, and ControlWhat do ERP transformations and flying a plane have in common? More than you'd think.In this unique episode of Untangled, Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar (AV) is joined by Associate Consultant and pilot-in-training Isaac to explore the surprising parallels between aviation and public sector ERP implementation.From pre-flight prep to landing protocols, AV and Isaac walk through the critical phases of digital transformation using the cockpit as a metaphor. They discuss why readiness assessments matter, how to avoid autopilot leadership, what communication clarity really means, and how to handle turbulence—whether in the air or in...
2025-06-1948 minUntangledGovTech Unfiltered: Live Q&A with Abhijit VerekarIn this candid live session, Avero Advisors CEO Abhijit Verekar pulls back the curtain on the realities of public sector transformation. From vaporware promises in ERP demos to project red flags leadership often misses, this Q&A tackles the real questions local government leaders are asking—but don’t always get straight answers to.AV breaks down vendor myths, how to push back without burning bridges, the human cost of poor change management, and why in-person trust still matters in a post-Zoom world. Whether you're planning an RFP, navigating implementation chaos, or just trying to define what succ...
2025-06-1248 minUntangledNetSuite & Infor Insights: Navigating the Future of Business SolutionsThis episode features two of the industry’s finest, Dan Aldridge from Solutions Marketing at PCG and Abhijit (AV) Verekar, CEO of Avero Advisors.Dan and AV discuss the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in enterprise resource planning (ERP) and share their insights on how these platforms can transform business operations and strategic decision-making.Whether you're a seasoned user, considering investing in Infor or NetSuite, or just into business tech, this episode is for you. It’s the perfect chance to learn from the pros, pick up some best practices, and even throw your own ques...
2024-07-1957 minUntangledThe State of SAP in the Public SectorJoin us for a timely discussion on "The State of SAP in the Public Sector." Delve into the latest innovations and trends shaping SAP's impact on government entities, educational institutions, healthcare organizations, and more. Avero's Robert Kornovich and Global SAP Expert Paul Byrne will explore key topics regarding SAP S/4HANA migrations. This livestream is your gateway to understanding SAP's present and future landscape in public services. Tune in and engage in thought-provoking discussions in real time.Top 10 Public Sector ERP Systems: ➡ https://share.hsforms.com/1ee49ru4aSpe3x4ByzuqifgeexmlLearn More...
2024-07-1152 min
UntangledMindful Pauses: ERP Project Wellness ChecksDiscover the concept of a "mindful pause" in our latest podcast episode with Avero CEO Abhijit Verekar and leading digital transformation thought leader Judith O'Callaghan. This innovative approach involves taking mindful breaks during transformation programs to reassess and align with objectives. Learn how ancient trading cultures' practices can enhance modern-day project management, especially in ERP implementations. Join us as we explore practical steps, the importance of change management, and real-life examples of successful conscious pauses. Perfect for professionals seeking sustainable and effective project outcomes.📅 Let’s Stay Connected:Hit subscribe so you don’t miss our latest...
2024-06-0553 min
UntangledIntroduction to Cross-CollaborationIn this episode of Untangled, titled "Introduction to Cross-Collaboration," hosts Megan and Abhijit Verekar (AV) delve into the complexities and significance of cross-functional collaboration within local government projects. They highlight the detrimental impact of departmental silos on modernization efforts and stress the importance of breaking these barriers to enhance efficiency and decision-making. The conversation covers several key points:The transition from siloed operations to a more integrated approach emphasizes the need for departments to share resources and data.The challenges of modernizing outdated systems, mainly when dealing with disjointed systems and custom integrations that hinder cross-departmental collaboration.Strategies...
2024-02-2438 min
UntangledBuilding a Robust ERP Implementation TeamIn a live stream discussion, Avero Advisors CEO Abhijit Verekar, Megan Seaton Business Development Manager, and Director of Advisory Services Robert Kornovich discussed the importance of building a robust implementation team for ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) projects. They emphasized the need for a project sponsor, a project champion, and a change management lead. They also highlighted the importance of defining roles and responsibilities early on, and ensuring that everyone is pulling in the same direction. They advised smaller organizations to spread responsibilities across different roles to avoid overburdening one person. They also stressed the importance of effective communication and c...
2024-01-0552 min
UntangledModernizing a City: Strategizing the Initial Steps Towards a Comprehensive IT UpdateIn a live-stream discussion, Megan and Abhijit Verekar (AV) discussed the importance of modernizing cities and the initial steps to take. They emphasized the need for automation and efficiency in city operations and the importance of envisioning a future where every citizen thrives, and the environment is cherished. They also highlighted the importance of setting a clear vision for modernization and the need for city leaders to work together to achieve this vision. They discussed potential funding sources for modernization projects, including internal sources, ARPA funds, grants, and state funds. They also highlighted potential roadblocks to modernization, including lack...
2023-11-1732 min
UntangledBreaking Point: The Escalating Threat of Ransomware and Data BreachesIn a live stream discussion, experts Robert Kornovich and AV discussed the escalating threat of ransomware and data breaches. They emphasized the importance of proactive planning and regular training for staff to recognize and respond to potential threats. They also highlighted the need for organizations to prioritize their most critical services and ensure they have the necessary resources to recover quickly in the event of an attack. The experts warned against complacency and the false sense of security from relying on cybersecurity insurance or AI tools. They also advised organizations to regularly review and update their cybersecurity policies and p...
2023-11-1044 min
UntangledCreating a Workplace Culture that Embraces Accountability and LeadershipCreating a Workplace Culture that Embraces Accountability and Leadership with Megan Seaton & Katie Connatser.In this conversation, Megan Seaton and Katie Connatser discuss the importance of fostering a culture of leadership and accountability in the workplace. They emphasize the need for clear communication, setting realistic expectations, and providing constructive feedback. They also highlight the importance of understanding each other's roles and responsibilities, promoting cross-functional collaboration, and being flexible and adaptable to change. They suggest that creating a culture of leadership and accountability can attract new talent and help employees grow professionally. They also discuss the challenges of...
2023-11-0439 min
UntangledPotion Mixing Perils: The Dark Arts of Customization with Paul OberdorferEnter the enigmatic world of potion-making with your host, AV, and special guest Paul Oberdorfer in this compelling pre-recorded podcast episode.In an era where customization is at the forefront of consumer desire, the prospect of creating individualized solutions is enticing and laden with pitfalls. Paul Oberdorfer, a recognized expert in this field, untangles the complicated relationships between various potion ingredients, evaluates the ethical concerns involved, and illustrates the nuanced balancing act required to craft personalized solutions without harmful side effects.🔮 Episode Highlights:An in-depth look at the complex combinations of ingredients that make eac...
2023-10-2742 min
UntangledTales from the Crypt: ERP Zombies - Stories of Half-Dead ERP ImplementationsYou didn't dare miss our haunting live broadcast on October 18th at 10 AM emanating from the shadowy corners of social media networks like LinkedIn and YouTube. AV and Tyler unearthed the darker, more sinister aspects of ERP systems in that chilling session. They navigated you through the pitfalls that have ensnared many, leading to projects that stalled and became eerie tales of failure or derailment. Through a series of real-life horror stories and sage advice from beyond, they aimed to spare you from joining the spectral ranks of ERP zombies. Whether you were a novice wandering into the ERP...
2023-10-2039 min
UntangledGhost of Resistance: Change Management PhantomsWelcome to a special episode of "Untangled," where we bring you an impactful discussion originally aired as a live broadcast on October 11th. This week's focus is "Ghost of Resistance: Change Management Phantoms." We are honored to feature Eric Kimberling from Third Stage Consulting and experienced experts AV and Megan. In this enlightening episode, we expose the often-overlooked obstacles that can compromise the effectiveness of change management initiatives. Benefit from our compelling dialogues and actionable insights to enhance your organization's resilience during transformative times. Tune in to "Untangled" and enrich your approach to managing change! 📅 Let’s Stay C...
2023-10-1349 minUntangledLeading Major City Modernization Efforts In The Midst Of A Pandemic With John JuechEnsuring a major US city’s survival during COVID-19 is challenging enough, let alone leading it towards commendable modernization efforts aimed at making its residents’ lives better. Cincinnati may be in the Rust Belt, but its city management team is far from rusty. Manned by a talented workforce and forceful leadership, the city has managed to perform beautifully in technological solutions, including the massive undertaking of providing Wi-Fi access to identified lower-income neighborhoods. As Assistant City Manager, John Juech gets to see and participate in all these efforts first hand. Listen as he shares how fruitful that experience has been...
2023-03-0832 minUntangledDesign Thinking and Business Process Redesign in Enterprise ITEverything we do in government is all about achieving quality service delivery. A lot of that can be achieved through process innovation, but it can often be a challenge when you’ve got a team of people who were never empowered to think outside of the transactional box. Mark Wheeler sees this as one of the biggest responsibilities he is called upon to shoulder as Philadelphia’s CIO. Possessing years of GIS-related experience, Mark brings in a proclivity towards innovation, as well as the top-notch leadership, communication and planning skills that all IT leaders need to have. He now join...
2023-02-2442 minUntangledHow To Become COVID-Resilient Through Shovel-Ready ProjectsDuring the pandemic, necessity has driven a lot of change in many organizations worldwide. Many government organizations were agile enough to gather resources like CARES funding quickly to complete shovel-ready projects. However, others did not take advantage of this funding. During this podcast, Abhijit Verekar and Mike Caffrey discuss the basics of creating a COVID-resilient government organization. As the pandemic continues to take a toll, the CARES funding deadline has been extended. This extension allows more time to find shovel-ready projects, create long-term strategic plans, and execute projects that help your organization achieve desired outcomes for your community....
2023-02-1040 minUntangledInternet Access & Affordability - Part 2 With Mike CaffreyEven as advanced as the world has gotten in terms of technology, many people still do not have access to internet. Sometimes, it is just not available in the area; other times, it is not affordable. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar sits down with Mike Caffrey to continue their conversation around this topic. Mike discusses the results from his CBRS – Proof of Concept, sharing with us its success and the reasons for it. He also talks about who was involved in the project and how the technology is the potential of building a learning environment of the future. Shedding li...
2023-02-0330 minUntangledPublic Housing Authorities, Systems, And Challenges That Get In The Way Of Efficient Operations With Robert KornovichMany housing authorities suffer from the lack of IT support, even the big ones. In this day and age, having the team and systems behind you could take you a long way. Host Abhijit Verekar invited for today’s show the Senior Manager at Avero, Robert Kornovich, who has been very involved in the Public Housing Authority Practice. Here, he talks about the challenges that often get in the way of efficient operations. He discusses how to manage the support process and vendor relationships, and why these are very important. Join Robert in this episode as he breaks down th...
2023-01-2740 minUntangledIT Modernization: Proven Roadmaps And Pitfalls To Avoid With Mike CaffreyAm I spending too much? Are we behind the times and too slow? These are often questions that Avero hears from its clients regarding Information Technology within their organizations. Today, IT modernization means so many things to many different people. In this conversation, Mike Caffrey and Abhijit Verekar share their thoughts on proven roadmaps, pitfalls to look for and spend traps to avoid when it comes to IT modernization. It's easy to throw money at IT without seeing anything in return. However, utilizing a consulting partner to assist in revealing or validating your organization's concerns can save you from...
2023-01-2139 minUntangledInternet Access And Affordability - Part 1Access to affordable, high speed or ANY Internet is increasingly seen as a utility across the world. Most especially at a time where we’re all forced into our homes, bringing with us our work and even school, having the right internet access is a must. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar explores with Mike Caffrey, the Vice President and Partner at Avero Infrastructure and Avero Advisors, wi-fi zones, 5G, StarLink and Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS). They break down each of these to help you gain insight into which ones provide the best solution for your needs. Plus, they al...
2023-01-1334 minUntangledHarnessing Government Technology To Make a Big Impact With Abhi NemaniWhat many people don’t realize is that local governments are big enterprises that require good communication and coordination systems to work efficiently. A lot of the problems that cities face right now can be solved with the proper use of government technology and with the help of someone who has both the technical expertise and bureaucratic clout to make things happen. With his stellar performance as former CDO for the City of Los Angeles and subsequently as interim CIO for Sacramento, Abhi Nemani is an absolute thought leader when it comes to all things GovTech. With his new Gov...
2022-12-1552 minUntangledStrategic Innovation In City Management: Pearland TX With Clay PearsonThe past two decades have been an era of hyper-growth for the City of Pearland, TX. For city manager, Clay Pearson, it’s just the right environment for his strategic and innovative mind to work. Having held the reins as Chief Executive Officer since 2014, he sees the need for the city government to be strategic and flexible in adopting information technology systems that allow it to keep up with the demands of ensuring quality life for a rapidly growing population. In this conversation with Abhijit Verekar, Clay shares the work they are doing for the city in terms of IT...
2022-12-0730 minUntangledDigital Innovation For Better Utilities With Gabe BolasThough they may not be as quick to pivot as other industries, the utilities are doing their best to keep up with the digital revolution. In the spirit of delivering more efficient, responsive and reliable service, utility boards around the country are adopting digital innovations in their systems and physical technologies. Such is the case of Knoxville Utilities Board, whose President and CEO, Gabe Bolas joins Abhijit Verakar for this interview. There is a reason why we take utilities for granted and why we really should – the utilities are such basic necessities to our modern lifestyle that excellent service me...
2022-12-0121 minUntangledLeveraging Innovative Technologies In The Public Housing Sector With Ben BentleyThe public housing sector is not just about providing livable spaces, but also ensuring a better quality of life for everybody. How are cities responding to this need with the help of information technology? Joining Abhijit Verekar to present the case of Knoxville, Tennessee, is Ben Bentley, the CEO and Executive Director of Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC). Far from just being a helpful tool, Ben considers IT as a utility, something that everyone needs to thrive in this rapidly changing world. Learn how KCDC copes with the demands of their sector while working with limited funding and te...
2022-11-2520 minUntangledCreating An Innovative City With The Business Community With Patricia RobledBusinesses are partners of governments when it comes to creating an innovative city. Sharing the growth of the entrepreneurial community in their city through technology, Abhijit Verekar sits down with Patricia Robledo, the business liaison for the city of Knoxville, Tennessee. Patricia takes us into how the city has changed operations to become more tech-friendly and how they are working with entrepreneurs with tech-oriented businesses. She then further defines what innovation means for the city and how they help the community through those innovative projects. Listen in on this episode to know how Patricia is working to connect with...
2022-11-1718 minUntangledMaking Innovation As The Focal Point In Knoxville, Tennessee With Tom BallardIt is in the best interest of the government and innovators to join hands and move together into the future so they can better the lives of people. This episode’s guest, Tom Ballard, the Chief Alliance Officer of PYA, P.C., has successfully done that. He sits down with host, Abhijit Verekar, to take us into how Knoxville, Tennessee, has made innovation its focal point and how he is leading in putting people who are innovating in the region into the limelight. On top of that, he also shares his origin story where he discovered the value of in...
2022-11-1025 minUntangledKeeping Electronic Payments Secure With Jaydeep PalkaOne of the biggest points that organizations should consider is how to give customers the confidence that they can transact with them in whichever way they want without compromising the security of their data or account information. To do that, they need to have the infrastructure or the functionality in their IT environment. Joining Abhijit Verekar and co-host Mike Caffrey on today’s podcast is Jaydeep Palkar, who oversees the PCI Compliance and General Governance for Gap. Jaydeep shares how they’re keeping electronic payments and transactions secure for their clients and vendors. As more and more businesses are tran...
2022-11-0340 minUntangledIntelligent Pavement Management with James Golden, CEO, PMGWhen we have somewhere we want to go, we often just think about where we are and where we want to go. We often overlook the roads that take us there and the work that is put into roadway management. Joining Abhijit Verekar on today’s podcast is James Golden, the Founder and CEO of Pavement Management Group. James talks about roadway management and how it can be upgraded and improved. His company focuses on the engineering industry, pavement management, and maintenance. Learn more about roadway management in this episode.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and sh...
2022-10-2838 minUntangledLeveraging IoT Technologies In The Public Sector With Nicole RaimundoInnovation is everywhere. However, it’s a word that’s often used in the wrong connotations. For Nicole Raimundo, the Chief Information Officer at the town of Cary, North Carolina, innovation is all about automating processes and delivering services better. On today’s podcast, Nicole joins Abhijit Verekar to share how she found herself being the CIO of the town of Cary. She also shares how they’re implementing and leveraging IoT technologies in the public sector and keeping the town and their networks secure from anything malicious on the internet.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and shar...
2022-10-2135 minUntangledNavigating The Journey To City Management Through Civic Technology And Problem Solving With Noel BernalIn this episode we will follow the journey of Noel Bernal into becoming the City Manager of Brownsville, Texas. Noel was really working and focusing on helping people to make an impact and serve which is why he decided to become an attorney. As one of the requirements of his political science, he came across public administration. The course really stood out with him so he decided to change to this course and take a master’s degree. Join us as Noel shares how he is handling matters and managing the largest city in the south Texas region!
2022-10-0744 minUntangledCreate Simple Cybersecurity Solutions With Cybersecurity Professional James LeslieCreating simple cybersecurity solutions is important so people will use them. Abhijit Verekar presents James Leslie, a cybersecurity professional and the Chief Information Officer at Cambridge Housing Authority. What people need right now are solutions, not tools. Because they may have all the tools they need but not know how to use them. That’s why human-focused, in-user training is crucial. Another way to simplify the process is to use password-less authentication. It’s a long-term solution that makes everybody’s life easier. Want to know more about cybersecurity strategies? Join in the conversation. Love the show? Subscr...
2022-09-3030 minUntangledTransformation Through Technology: Reaching Operational Sufficiency By Leveraging Tech With Ivory MathewsHow do you take a system inundated with outdated technology and bring it back to efficiency? You begin a transformation through technology, that’s how. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar gets into an informative conversation with Ivory Mathews, CEO of Columbia Housing, about transforming an antiquated system into a modern, efficient one. Ivory shares the experiences that led to her coming to work with Columbia Housing and how they are turning an antiquated system into a world-class one using technology. Interested in the transformations that can be done for your organization? Then tune in for more. Love th...
2022-09-2327 minUntangledCybersecurity & Enterprise Risk For Executives With Robert KornovichCybersecurity and enterprise risk may sound like business buzzwords, but they are absolutely crucial to the stability of businesses. With the continuing rise of cyberattacks on businesses, not having a cybersecurity plan is setting yourself up for failure. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar discusses these two crucial elements with Avero Advisors’ Senior Manager, Robert Kornovich. With over two decades of experience in IT strategic planning, Robert has a lot of insights to share on cybersecurity, risk mitigation and why education and engagement are critical. Gain more valuable insights and information by tuning in to this episode.Love th...
2022-09-1644 minUntangledSeeing Through The Noise Of Government IT With Joe LaCroixInternally, the noise is always going to be there in the Government IT—every department has its say. How do you cut through the noise? Today’s guest is Joe LaCroix, the IT Director in the town of Farragut, Tennessee. Joe discusses with Abhijit Verekar how talking to the executive management about the goals of the entire town is an essential first step. Then you try to put the pieces in place for the individual departments. On top of it all, having a managed service provider model to partner with is a tremendous advantage. Join in the conversation and find...
2022-09-0929 minUntangledCapturing Sustainable Growth In The Public Housing Industry With Sean GilbertAlthough rarely talked about, the public housing industry is more than just brick and mortar. In its more profound sense, it is about community building and connectivity. Joining Abhijit Verekar is the Executive Director at the Morristown Housing Authority in Tennessee, Sean Gilbert. He talks about the process of modernization in housing, especially in this time of the pandemic, how to maximize public transportation, and how to connect residents with job opportunities effectively. Sean also shares his work on the technological side of housing, underlining the importance of embracing digital platforms not only to help in virtual education but...
2022-09-0225 minUntangledInnovation through Document ManagementMost people tend to become a generalist first before diving into being a specialist. So what does it look like when a specialist becomes a generalist? In this episode, Abhijit Verekar invites someone who is on this path. He talks to Christopher Liersaph from Union County, NC, about how he transitioned from being a document management domain specialist to becoming an IT director-level generalist. Christopher touches on the skills required in this move and what he thinks about innovation and applying that to leadership in technology. He also shares how they are doing during this pandemic, what strategies they...
2022-08-2632 minUntangledBuilding Thriving Communities With Eugene Jones Jr.The public housing industry must not always be about providing amenities to everyone. Instead, it must also be about building communities where people can connect with one another safely and sound. Joining Abhijit Verekar on how this mission can be integrated into the industry is author and advocate for affordable housing and national housing policy reform, Eugene Jones Jr. Eugene shares how PHAs take advantage of the power of technology to innovate their processes, making public housing even more accessible to the public, especially when providing information to nearby establishments and communities. He also talks about PHA's biggest challenges...
2022-08-1231 minUntangledFrom T1 To Fiber Optic: Innovation For The Community With Greg McClainA great city manager who pushes its city forward brings innovation at the forefront of what they do. Greg McClain, City Manager for the City of Maryville, Tennessee, is nothing short of being innovative. When he was at the City of Alcoa, he got rid of a T1 line and strung up the first fiber optic cable in the county, keeping it from being left behind. In this episode, he joins Abhijit Verekar to tell us more about what innovation means to a city manager and how it gets translated into the citizens’ daily lives. He takes us back fr...
2022-08-0544 minUntangledA Day In The Life Of A City Manager With C. Seth SumnerThe job of a city manager, for the most part, goes unsung when talking about the scene of local government, but their impact is much greater than people tend to give them credit for. Their invisible hand guides steady progress in a city and makes sure that the day-to-day operations of a city go as smoothly as possible. C. Seth Sumner is the City Manager of Athens, TN. He sits down with Abhijit Verekar to talk about the responsibilities of a city manager to the people of their city. Learn more about this important profession that makes sure the...
2022-07-2940 minUntangledEffective Leadership: Being Brilliant At the Basics With Kimberly BaileyA lot of times, effective leadership entails stepping out of the limelight and away from all the glamor to be able to focus on building the best foundation for your organization to work efficiently. Kimberly Bailey, the Chief Information Officer for the City of Memphis, TN, is such a great leader. She has been able to lead her team successfully, even in a situation where everybody is forced to make a radical shift in the way they work. Kimberly is a model for the modern CIO – communicative, educative, and customer service oriented. She joins Abhijit Verekar on the show to...
2022-07-2238 minUntangledLeveraging Technology to Enhance Communities, with Theogene Melancon, City Manager at Dayton, TXInternet and information technology are key factors that cities these days must possess. From various city departments to residential areas, the need for connecting everyone to the web has become a necessity. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar interviews Theogene Melancon, the City Manager of Dayton, Texas. Intending to use tech to make smarter decisions and processes for their city, Theogene talks about how they are taking cybersecurity to the next level, how they are hiring more employees for tech support, and how they are educating all departments about it. Be inspired by how Theogene weaves IT into their city’s...
2022-07-1533 minUntangledProviding A Higher Level Of Service Through Innovation With Bob Wilson, Assistant City Manager, City of Johnson City, TNMore than helping you become more efficient and get a lot of work done, innovation is all about providing a higher level of service to others. In this episode, host Abhijit Verekar invites Bob Wilson, Assistant City Manager of the City of Johnson City, TN, to discuss how a smart city needs only to do that and not necessarily by having the latest and most advanced technologies. Here, they talk about how Bob is bringing forward innovation to the city, sharing how he deals with vendors when finding the software that fits their needs as well as translating his...
2022-07-0821 minUntangledImplementing Virtual Court Systems With Tom Hatcher, Circuit Court Clerk For Blount County, TennesseeThe term circuit court is usually applied to trial courts of general jurisdiction. Its core concept requires judges to travel to different locales to ensure wide visibility and understanding of cases in a region. However, with the current lockdown procedure right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic, physically meeting in court poses a challenge. Joining Abhijit Verekar and co-host Mike Caffrey on today’s show is Tom Hatcher, a Circuit Court Clerk for Blount County, Tennessee. Tom has been in the judicial system for 26 years. Today, he talks about how Blount County blazed the trail for many other courts in...
2022-07-0155 minUntangledBuilding A Smart And Innovative City With Brian Platt, City Manager, City Of Jersey City, NJA city that thrives is a city that knows how to innovate. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar talks with Brian Platt about how he is fulfilling his role as the City Manager/Business Administrator and the Chief Innovation Officer for the City of Jersey City, New Jersey. He talks about what innovation means for cities and shares some of the biggest successes in his municipal career. Putting technology at the heart of it, Brian discusses how he stays on top of technology while maintaining a more collaborative approach with the residents and his team. He also gives his definition...
2022-06-2437 minUntangledEnhancing The Level Of Service To Build A Great Community With Eric Stuckey, City Administrator, City of Franklin, TNCity managers and administrators are the key people who connect elected leadership and professional staff to serve a community well. That is why taking on this job is no easy feat. Fortunately, with great people on the position, the vision to serve and build a great community is within reach. Eric Stuckey, City Administrator of the City of Franklin, TN, speaks with host, Abhijit Verekar, about the things they have been doing at Franklin. He talks about his thoughts on innovation and keeping up with the newest technology, especially with making services more accessible to the community. On handling...
2022-06-1734 minUntangledThe Smart City: How Technology Can Be Utilized In Public Service With Rick ColeIn this technological world, the public sector should find the smartest ways to leverage the latest technology in its efforts to extend quality service to its constituents. What differentiates a smart city from others is not its possession of the most sophisticated technological advancements, but its way of figuring out how to efficiently use what is available to it. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar taps into Rick Cole’s rich experience as a public servant in California for many decades. Rick served as the City Manager for Santa Monica from 2015 to 2020. He has held other public posts, including that of...
2022-06-101h 00UntangledBringing Innovation To Airports With Trevis Gardner, Vice President Operations and CIOWhen organizations or cities innovate, more often than not, the reason is to provide a better experience for the people. Taking this to one of the busiest facilities in any parts of the world, Abhijit Verekar talks to Trevis Gardner, the Vice President of Operations for the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority in Knoxville, Tennessee and the CIO for the Airport Authority. Here, Trevis shares with us how he spearheaded airport innovation in his city, giving us a view of their projects, which aim to help end-users, and the tools they use to help their teams navigate. Speaking as a...
2022-06-0337 min
Rethink ITCreate Simple Cybersecurity Solutions With Cybersecurity Professional James LeslieCreating simple cybersecurity solutions is important so people will use them. Abhijit Verekar presents James Leslie, a cybersecurity professional and the Chief Information Officer at Cambridge Housing Authority. What people need right now are solutions, not tools. Because they may have all the tools they need but not know how to use them. That’s why human-focused, in-user training is crucial. Another way to simplify the process is to use password-less authentication. It’s a long-term solution that makes everybody’s life easier. Want to know more about cybersecurity strategies? Join in the conversation. Love th...
2022-03-0130 min
Rethink ITTransformation Through Technology: Reaching Operational Sufficiency By Leveraging Tech With Ivory MathewsHow do you take a system inundated with outdated technology and bring it back to efficiency? You begin a transformation through technology, that’s how. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar gets into an informative conversation with Ivory Mathews, CEO of Columbia Housing, about transforming an antiquated system into a modern, efficient one. Ivory shares the experiences that led to her coming to work with Columbia Housing and how they are turning an antiquated system into a world-class one using technology. Interested in the transformations that can be done for your organization? Then tune in for more. ...
2021-11-2227 minRethink ITCybersecurity & Enterprise Risk For Executives With Robert KornovichCybersecurity and enterprise risk may sound like business buzzwords, but they are absolutely crucial to the stability of businesses. With the continuing rise of cyberattacks on businesses, not having a cybersecurity plan is setting yourself up for failure. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar discusses these two crucial elements with Avero Advisors’ Senior Manager, Robert Kornovich. With over two decades of experience in IT strategic planning, Robert has a lot of insights to share on cybersecurity, risk mitigation and why education and engagement are critical. Gain more valuable insights and information by tuning in to this episode.
2021-10-0444 minRethink ITSeeing Through The Noise Of Government IT With Joe LaCroixInternally, the noise is always going to be there in the Government IT—every department has its say. How do you cut through the noise? Today’s guest is Joe LaCroix, the IT Director in the town of Farragut, Tennessee. Joe discusses with Abhijit Verekar how talking to the executive management about the goals of the entire town is an essential first step. Then you try to put the pieces in place for the individual departments. On top of it all, having a managed service provider model to partner with is a tremendous advantage. Join in the conversation and find...
2021-05-1029 minRethink ITCapturing Sustainable Growth In The Public Housing Industry With Sean GilbertAlthough rarely talked about, the public housing industry is more than just brick and mortar. In its more profound sense, it is about community building and connectivity. Joining Abhijit Verekar is the Executive Director at the Morristown Housing Authority in Tennessee, Sean Gilbert. He talks about the process of modernization in housing, especially in this time of the pandemic, how to maximize public transportation, and how to connect residents with job opportunities effectively. Sean also shares his work on the technological side of housing, underlining the importance of embracing digital platforms not only to help in virtual education but mak...
2021-04-1925 minRethink ITInnovation through Document ManagementMost people tend to become a generalist first before diving into being a specialist. So what does it look like when a specialist becomes a generalist? In this episode, Abhijit Verekar invites someone who is on this path. He talks to Christopher Liersaph from Union County, NC, about how he transitioned from being a document management domain specialist to becoming an IT director-level generalist. Christopher touches on the skills required in this move and what he thinks about innovation and applying that to leadership in technology. He also shares how they are doing during this pandemic, what strategies they ar...
2021-04-0532 minRethink ITBuilding Thriving Communities With Eugene Jones Jr.The public housing industry must not always be about providing amenities to everyone. Instead, it must also be about building communities where people can connect with one another safely and sound. Joining Abhijit Verekar on how this mission can be integrated into the industry is author and advocate for affordable housing and national housing policy reform, Eugene Jones Jr. Eugene shares how PHAs take advantage of the power of technology to innovate their processes, making public housing even more accessible to the public, especially when providing information to nearby establishments and communities. He also talks about PHA's biggest challenges af...
2021-03-2231 minRethink ITLeading Major City Modernization Efforts In The Midst Of A Pandemic With John JuechEnsuring a major US city’s survival during COVID-19 is challenging enough, let alone leading it towards commendable modernization efforts aimed at making its residents’ lives better. Cincinnati may be in the Rust Belt, but its city management team is far from rusty. Manned by a talented workforce and forceful leadership, the city has managed to perform beautifully in technological solutions, including the massive undertaking of providing Wi-Fi access to identified lower-income neighborhoods. As Assistant City Manager, John Juech gets to see and participate in all these efforts first hand. Listen as he shares how fruitful that experience has been...
2021-03-0832 minRethink ITDesign Thinking and Business Process Redesign in Enterprise ITEverything we do in government is all about achieving quality service delivery. A lot of that can be achieved through process innovation, but it can often be a challenge when you’ve got a team of people who were never empowered to think outside of the transactional box. Mark Wheeler sees this as one of the biggest responsibilities he is called upon to shoulder as Philadelphia’s CIO. Possessing years of GIS-related experience, Mark brings in a proclivity towards innovation, as well as the top-notch leadership, communication and planning skills that all IT leaders need to have. He now joins...
2021-02-2242 minRethink ITHow To Become COVID-Resilient Through Shovel-Ready ProjectsDuring the pandemic, necessity has driven a lot of change in many organizations worldwide. Many government organizations were agile enough to gather resources like CARES funding quickly to complete shovel-ready projects. However, others did not take advantage of this funding. During this podcast, Abhijit Verekar and Mike Caffrey discuss the basics of creating a COVID-resilient government organization. As the pandemic continues to take a toll, the CARES funding deadline has been extended. This extension allows more time to find shovel-ready projects, create long-term strategic plans, and execute projects that help your organization achieve desired outcomes for your community.
2021-02-0840 minRethink ITInternet Access & Affordability - Part 2 With Mike CaffreyEven as advanced as the world has gotten in terms of technology, many people still do not have access to internet. Sometimes, it is just not available in the area; other times, it is not affordable. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar sits down with Mike Caffrey to continue their conversation around this topic. Mike discusses the results from his CBRS – Proof of Concept, sharing with us its success and the reasons for it. He also talks about who was involved in the project and how the technology is the potential of building a learning environment of the future. Shedding ligh...
2021-01-1530 minRethink ITPublic Housing Authorities, Systems, And Challenges That Get In The Way Of Efficient Operations With Robert KornovichMany housing authorities suffer from the lack of IT support, even the big ones. In this day and age, having the team and systems behind you could take you a long way. Host Abhijit Verekar invited for today’s show the Senior Manager at Avero, Robert Kornovich, who has been very involved in the Public Housing Authority Practice. Here, he talks about the challenges that often get in the way of efficient operations. He discusses how to manage the support process and vendor relationships, and why these are very important. Join Robert in this episode as he breaks down th...
2020-12-1440 minRethink ITIT Modernization: Proven Roadmaps And Pitfalls To Avoid With Mike CaffreyAm I spending too much? Are we behind the times and too slow? These are often questions that Avero hears from its clients regarding Information Technology within their organizations. Today, IT modernization means so many things to many different people. In this conversation, Mike Caffrey and Abhijit Verekar share their thoughts on proven roadmaps, pitfalls to look for and spend traps to avoid when it comes to IT modernization. It's easy to throw money at IT without seeing anything in return. However, utilizing a consulting partner to assist in revealing or validating your organization's concerns can save you from y...
2020-11-3039 minRethink ITInternet Access And Affordability - Part 1Access to affordable, high speed or ANY Internet is increasingly seen as a utility across the world. Most especially at a time where we’re all forced into our homes, bringing with us our work and even school, having the right internet access is a must. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar explores with Mike Caffrey, the Vice President and Partner at Avero Infrastructure and Avero Advisors, wi-fi zones, 5G, StarLink and Citizens Broadband Radio Service (CBRS). They break down each of these to help you gain insight into which ones provide the best solution for your needs. Plus, they al...
2020-11-1634 minRethink ITStrategic Innovation In City Management: Pearland TX With Clay PearsonThe past two decades have been an era of hyper-growth for the City of Pearland, TX. For city manager, Clay Pearson, it’s just the right environment for his strategic and innovative mind to work. Having held the reins as Chief Executive Officer since 2014, he sees the need for the city government to be strategic and flexible in adopting information technology systems that allow it to keep up with the demands of ensuring quality life for a rapidly growing population. In this conversation with Abhijit Verekar, Clay shares the work they are doing for the city in terms of IT...
2020-09-0830 minRethink ITLeveraging Innovative Technologies In The Public Housing Sector With Ben BentleyThe public housing sector is not just about providing livable spaces, but also ensuring a better quality of life for everybody. How are cities responding to this need with the help of information technology? Joining Abhijit Verekar to present the case of Knoxville, Tennessee, is Ben Bentley, the CEO and Executive Director of Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC). […]
2020-08-1700 minRethink ITLeveraging Innovative Technologies In The Public Housing Sector With Ben BentleyThe public housing sector is not just about providing livable spaces, but also ensuring a better quality of life for everybody. How are cities responding to this need with the help of information technology? Joining Abhijit Verekar to present the case of Knoxville, Tennessee, is Ben Bentley, the CEO and Executive Director of Knoxville’s Community Development Corporation (KCDC). Far from just being a helpful tool, Ben considers IT as a utility, something that everyone needs to thrive in this rapidly changing world. Learn how KCDC copes with the demands of their sector while working with limited funding and techn...
2020-08-1720 minRethink ITCreating An Innovative City With The Business Community With Patricia RobledoBusinesses are partners of governments when it comes to creating an innovative city. Sharing the growth of the entrepreneurial community in their city through technology, Abhijit Verekar sits down with Patricia Robledo, the business liaison for the city of Knoxville, Tennessee. Patricia takes us into how the city has changed operations to become more tech-friendly […]
2020-08-1000 minRethink ITCreating An Innovative City With The Business Community With Patricia RobledoBusinesses are partners of governments when it comes to creating an innovative city. Sharing the growth of the entrepreneurial community in their city through technology, Abhijit Verekar sits down with Patricia Robledo, the business liaison for the city of Knoxville, Tennessee. Patricia takes us into how the city has changed operations to become more tech-friendly and how they are working with entrepreneurs with tech-oriented businesses. She then further defines what innovation means for the city and how they help the community through those innovative projects. Listen in on this episode to know how Patricia is working to connect with...
2020-08-1018 minRethink ITMaking Innovation As The Focal Point In Knoxville, Tennessee With Tom BallardIt is in the best interest of the government and innovators to join hands and move together into the future so they can better the lives of people. This episode's guest, Tom Ballard, the Chief Alliance Officer of PYA, P.C., has successfully done that. He sits down with host, Abhijit Verekar, to take us into how Knoxville, […]
2020-08-0300 minRethink ITMaking Innovation As The Focal Point In Knoxville, Tennessee With Tom BallardIt is in the best interest of the government and innovators to join hands and move together into the future so they can better the lives of people. This episode’s guest, Tom Ballard, the Chief Alliance Officer of PYA, P.C., has successfully done that. He sits down with host, Abhijit Verekar, to take us into how Knoxville, Tennessee, has made innovation its focal point and how he is leading in putting people who are innovating in the region into the limelight. On top of that, he also shares his origin story where he discovered the value of inno...
2020-08-0325 minRethink ITKeeping Electronic Payments Secure With Jaydeep PalkarOne of the biggest points that organizations should consider is how to give customers the confidence that they can transact with them in whichever way they want without compromising the security of their data or account information. To do that, they need to have the infrastructure or the functionality in their IT environment. Joining Abhijit Verekar and co-host Mike Caffrey on today’s podcast is Jaydeep Palkar, who oversees the PCI Compliance and General Governance for Gap. Jaydeep shares how they’re keeping electronic payments and transactions secure for their clients and vendors. As more and more businesses are trans...
2020-07-2740 minRethink ITIntelligent Pavement Management with James Golden, CEO, PMGWhen we have somewhere we want to go, we often just think about where we are and where we want to go. We often overlook the roads that take us there and the work that is put into roadway management. Joining Abhijit Verekar on today’s podcast is James Golden, the Founder and CEO of Pavement Management Group. […]
2020-07-2000 minRethink ITIntelligent Pavement Management with James Golden, CEO, PMGWhen we have somewhere we want to go, we often just think about where we are and where we want to go. We often overlook the roads that take us there and the work that is put into roadway management. Joining Abhijit Verekar on today’s podcast is James Golden, the Founder and CEO of Pavement Management Group. James talks about roadway management and how it can be upgraded and improved. His company focuses on the engineering industry, pavement management, and maintenance. Learn more about roadway management in this episode.Love the show? Subscribe, rate...
2020-07-2038 minRethink ITLeveraging IoT Technologies In The Public Sector With Nicole RaimundoInnovation is everywhere. However, it's a word that's often used in the wrong connotations. For Nicole Raimundo, the Chief Information Officer at the town of Cary, North Carolina, innovation is all about automating processes and delivering services better. On today’s podcast, Nicole joins Abhijit Verekar to share how she found herself being the CIO of the […]
2020-07-1300 minRethink ITLeveraging IoT Technologies In The Public Sector With Nicole RaimundoInnovation is everywhere. However, it’s a word that’s often used in the wrong connotations. For Nicole Raimundo, the Chief Information Officer at the town of Cary, North Carolina, innovation is all about automating processes and delivering services better. On today’s podcast, Nicole joins Abhijit Verekar to share how she found herself being the CIO of the town of Cary. She also shares how they’re implementing and leveraging IoT technologies in the public sector and keeping the town and their networks secure from anything malicious on the internet.Love the show? Subscribe...
2020-07-1335 minRethink ITBringing Innovation To Airports With Trevis Gardner, Vice President Operations and CIOWhen organizations or cities innovate, more often than not, the reason is to provide a better experience for the people. Taking this to one of the busiest facilities in any parts of the world, Abhijit Verekar talks to Trevis Gardner, the Vice President of Operations for the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority in Knoxville, Tennessee and the CIO for […]
2020-06-2900 minRethink ITBringing Innovation To Airports With Trevis Gardner, Vice President Operations and CIOWhen organizations or cities innovate, more often than not, the reason is to provide a better experience for the people. Taking this to one of the busiest facilities in any parts of the world, Abhijit Verekar talks to Trevis Gardner, the Vice President of Operations for the Metropolitan Knoxville Airport Authority in Knoxville, Tennessee and the CIO for the Airport Authority. Here, Trevis shares with us how he spearheaded airport innovation in his city, giving us a view of their projects, which aim to help end-users, and the tools they use to help their teams navigate. Speaking as a lea...
2020-06-2937 minRethink ITFrom T1 To Fiber Optic: Innovation For The Community With Greg McClainA great city manager who pushes its city forward brings innovation at the forefront of what they do. Greg McClain, City Manager for the City of Maryville, Tennessee, is nothing short of being innovative. When he was at the City of Alcoa, he got rid of a T1 line and strung up the first fiber optic cable in the county, keeping it from being left behind. In this episode, he joins Abhijit Verekar to tell us more about what innovation means to a city manager and how it gets translated into the citizens’ daily lives. He takes us back from...
2020-06-1544 minRethink ITA Day In The Life Of A City Manager With C. Seth SumnerThe job of a city manager, for the most part, goes unsung when talking about the scene of local government, but their impact is much greater than people tend to give them credit for. Their invisible hand guides steady progress in a city and makes sure that the day-to-day operations of a city go as smoothly as possible. C. Seth Sumner is the City Manager of Athens, TN. He sits down with Abhijit Verekar to talk about the responsibilities of a city manager to the people of their city. Learn more about this important profession that makes sure the...
2020-05-2840 minRethink ITEffective Leadership: Being Brilliant At the Basics With Kimberly BaileyA lot of times, effective leadership entails stepping out of the limelight and away from all the glamor to be able to focus on building the best foundation for your organization to work efficiently. Kimberly Bailey, the Chief Information Officer for the City of Memphis, TN, is such a great leader. She has been able to lead her team successfully, even in a situation where everybody is forced to make a radical shift in the way they work. Kimberly is a model for the modern CIO – communicative, educative, and customer service oriented. She joins Abhijit Verekar on the show to...
2020-05-2838 minRethink ITLeveraging Technology to Enhance Communities, with Theogene Melancon, City Manager at Dayton, TXInternet and information technology are key factors that cities these days must possess. From various city departments to residential areas, the need for connecting everyone to the web has become a necessity. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar interviews Theogene Melancon, the City Manager of Dayton, Texas. Intending to use tech to make smarter decisions and processes for their city, Theogene talks about how they are taking cybersecurity to the next level, how they are hiring more employees for tech support, and how they are educating all departments about it. Be inspired by how Theogene weaves IT into their city’s g...
2020-05-2133 minRethink ITLeveraging Technology to Enhance Communities, with Theogene Melancon, City Manager at Dayton, TXInternet and information technology are key factors that cities these days must possess. From various city departments to residential areas, the need for connecting everyone to the web has become a necessity. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar interviews Theogene Melancon, the City Manager of Dayton, Texas. Intending to use tech to make smarter decisions and processes […]
2020-05-2100 minRethink ITProviding A Higher Level Of Service Through Innovation With Bob Wilson, Assistant City Manager, City of Johnson City, TNMore than helping you become more efficient and get a lot of work done, innovation is all about providing a higher level of service to others. In this episode, host Abhijit Verekar invites Bob Wilson, Assistant City Manager of the City of Johnson City, TN, to discuss how a smart city needs only to do that and not necessarily by having the latest and most advanced technologies. Here, they talk about how Bob is bringing forward innovation to the city, sharing how he deals with vendors when finding the software that fits their needs as well as translating his v...
2020-05-2121 minRethink ITProviding A Higher Level Of Service Through Innovation With Bob Wilson, Assistant City Manager, City of Johnson City, TNMore than helping you become more efficient and get a lot of work done, innovation is all about providing a higher level of service to others. In this episode, host Abhijit Verekar invites Bob Wilson, Assistant City Manager of the City of Johnson City, TN, to discuss how a smart city needs only to do that […]
2020-05-2100 minRethink ITImplementing Virtual Court Systems With Tom Hatcher, Circuit Court Clerk For Blount County, TennesseeThe term circuit court is usually applied to trial courts of general jurisdiction. Its core concept requires judges to travel to different locales to ensure wide visibility and understanding of cases in a region. However, with the current lockdown procedure right now due to the COVID-19 pandemic, physically meeting in court poses a challenge. Joining Abhijit Verekar and co-host Mike Caffrey on today’s show is Tom Hatcher, a Circuit Court Clerk for Blount County, Tennessee. Tom has been in the judicial system for 26 years. Today, he talks about how Blount County blazed the trail for many other courts in...
2020-05-1455 minRethink ITBuilding A Smart And Innovative City With Brian Platt, City Manager, City Of Jersey City, NJA city that thrives is a city that knows how to innovate. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar talks with Brian Platt about how he is fulfilling his role as the City Manager/Business Administrator and the Chief Innovation Officer for the City of Jersey City, New Jersey. He talks about what innovation means for cities and shares some […]
2020-05-1400 minRethink ITBuilding A Smart And Innovative City With Brian Platt, City Manager, City Of Jersey City, NJA city that thrives is a city that knows how to innovate. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar talks with Brian Platt about how he is fulfilling his role as the City Manager/Business Administrator and the Chief Innovation Officer for the City of Jersey City, New Jersey. He talks about what innovation means for cities and shares some of the biggest successes in his municipal career. Putting technology at the heart of it, Brian discusses how he stays on top of technology while maintaining a more collaborative approach with the residents and his team. He also gives his definition of...
2020-05-1429 minRethink ITThe Smart City: How Technology Can Be Utilized In Public Service With Rick ColeIn this technological world, the public sector should find the smartest ways to leverage the latest technology in its efforts to extend quality service to its constituents. What differentiates a smart city from others is not its possession of the most sophisticated technological advancements, but its way of figuring out how to efficiently use what is available to it. In this episode, Abhijit Verekar taps into Rick Cole’s rich experience as a public servant in California for many decades. Rick served as the City Manager for Santa Monica from 2015 to 2020. He has held other public posts, including that of...
2020-05-141h 00