Shows
Adjunct Intelligence: AI + HELMS Wars, Over-Thinking Ais & YouTube’s AI-Powered Shorts- July’s Wild Ride in Ed TechAI in education just level-upped—again. In this fast-moving finale for July we unpack:00:00 – 02:10 LMS Wars OpenAI × Canvas vs Anthropic × Panopto — platform lock-in is coming.02:10 – 03:45 Inverse-Scaling Meltdown New Anthropic study shows more compute can make Claude & GPT-4o worse thinkers.03:45 – 05:20 ChatGPT Psychosis Case When nonstop AI validation outweighs safety: how it landed one user in hospital.05:20 – 07:40 YouTube Shorts’ AI Playground Photo-to-video, Veo-powered effects & an “AI Playground” for 1.5 B users— creative liberation or content slop?07:40 – 09:35 Bots Win Gold at the IMO DeepMind Gemini & an OpenAI model score 35/42 at the International Math Olympiad.09:35 – 12:00 JSON > Jargon ...2025-07-2625 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEAI Partners Boost Performance 37%: What's the next move? // Episode 11What if the answer to AI in education isn't choosing between human or machine, but discovering how they amplify each other? New research from Procter & Gamble, MIT, and Wharton just shattered everything we thought we knew about human-AI collaboration. Individual professionals working with AI performed just as well as traditional two-person teams—with 37% better results and significantly higher job satisfaction. The implications for higher education are staggering.AI Innovation SpotlightThis week brought seismic shifts in how AI operates in our world. OpenAI released their most capable agent yet one that doesn't just think but acts in re...2025-07-1929 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEBuild Your own ai powered Infinite Content Machine + Cheating goes mainstreamIf your job involves thinking, explaining, or creating…AI wants a word.In this episode of Adjunct Intelligence, we dive into the infinite content machine. how educators and creatives alike can build personalized AI-powered experiences (for better or Franken-worse). But before we Frankenstein our workflows, we unpack a dangerous new AI platform that’s proudly marketing itself as a cheat engine. and how it’s dragging academic integrity into the abyss with it. We also explore summer model releases from Grok, Gemini, and GPT-5, the growing trend of AI teaching you, and a content future so abundant it might actual...2025-07-1228 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEAi CEO goes rogue, then it had a full on breakdown + Vibe Coding is dead!Anthropic got it's Ai to run a business it hallucinated a fake person and tried to fire a supplier.Welcome to Episode 9 of Adjunct Intelligence, where we unpack what happens when AI runs a business and possibly your classroom. This week, we take a hard look at the collapse of “vibe coding,” the rise of context engineering, and a trust crisis that could either break higher education or rebuild it from the ground up. With OpenAI and Google both eyeing education, and AI systems now more persuasive than humans, we ask: can higher ed catch up before student...2025-07-0529 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEWill Ai Rot your Brain? Ai Tool Deep Dive - Which one is Best?That MIT Brain Study Everyone’s Sharing? Here’s What It Actually FoundThe latest MIT study making headlines isn’t telling the whole story about AI and cognitive function. We tested four premium AI models head-to-head to settle the $20 question, and discovered Google’s NotebookLM might be the stewardship breakthrough that changes how students actually learn with AI.AI Innovation Spotlight: Top 3 Breakthroughs Reshaping Education:Google’s 360-Degree Video Revolution: Google Video 3 now generates immersive VR content that works in headsets. Early tests show we’ve crossed from impressive demo to genuinely ed...2025-06-2835 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEGoogle's Secret AI Roadmap The Classroom Crystal Ball That Changes EverythingGoogle's Secret AI Roadmap: The Classroom Crystal Ball That Changes EverythingWhile education leaders debate AI policies, Google just revealed the future and it's coming faster than anyone expected. Buried in a 10-hour developer presentation was one slide that might be the closest thing we have to a roadmap for AI in education. This isn't theoretical anymore. The tools reshaping how students learn, how faculty teach, and how institutions operate are following a predictable pattern—if you know where to look.Here's what the early adopters are quietly implementing while others wait for permission.AI Innovation Sp...2025-06-2137 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEStudents flying blind with Ai tools + Should AI literacy go the way of the floppy disk?Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Adjunct Intelligence! Dale and Nick dive deep into the seismic shifts happening in AI and education this week. From OpenAI's legal woes, to Apple's surprisingly skeptical stance on AI capabilities, we're unpacking the headlines that matter to educators. But the real bombshell? New research reveals that 91% of students worry about breaking university rules with AI - yet they're using it anyway. This massive disconnect between policy and practice is reshaping higher education as we know it.Big-Ticket AI Headlines (First 10 Minutes)[00:00:59] OpenAI Slashes Prices & Releases New Model...2025-06-1438 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEAI, Taste, and the Accessibility Revolution: Why Your "Slop Detector" Matters More Than EverWelcome to another mind-expanding episode of Adjunct Intelligence! This week, hosts Dale and Nick dive deep into two game-changing AI developments that every educator needs to understand. First, we explore why "taste" - your ability to distinguish quality from algorithmic average - has become your most valuable skill in an AI-saturated world. Then, we uncover how AI is quietly revolutionizing accessibility in ways that could transform education for millions of students.🚨 Big-Ticket AI HeadlinesAustralia positions itself as global AI investment hub with Five Eyes advantageUniversity of Melbourne implements radical assessment overhaul: 50% "secure" testingEU considers pausing AI Act...2025-06-0731 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEThe AI Reality Check: Deepfakes, TEQSA and the Junior Employment ParadoxBuckle up for this eye-opening episode of Adjunct Intelligence! Dale and Nick dive deep into the seismic shifts happening in AI and higher education, from Australia's regulatory pivot to the Hollywood-level deepfakes you can now create on your phone. This episode is little less than "ooh shiney new widgets" and more wake up call.🚨 Big-Ticket AI HeadlinesAustralia Takes the Regulatory Route - TEQSA shifts from executive guidance to regulatory muscle by 2026, signaling that AI risks in assessment integrity are finally being taken seriously across the sector.AI Safety Red Flags - Anthropic's Claude caught att...2025-06-0133 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEIs talk cheap? + Ai Agents and Academic RealityWelcome to Episode 3 of Adjunct Intelligence, the podcast navigating the intersection of artificial intelligence and higher education. This week, Dale and Nick unpack a whirlwind of announcements from tech giants, dive deep into the world of AI agents, and explore what happens when humans are no longer at the top of the knowledge food chain. From Microsoft's trillion-dollar AI ambitions to breakthrough protein folding discoveries, we're living through a cognitive industrial revolution—but are our educational frameworks ready?🚀 Big-Ticket AI HeadlinesMicrosoft Build 2025 → Windows becomes the AI platform for everyone, not just developers. 30% of Microsoft's code no...2025-05-2529 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HEPatient Data, Playground AI and Prompting: Gemini for Kids, 57 M Health Records Uploaded to AI, and Prompting Like a ProWelcome to Episode 2 of Adjunct Intelligence the podcast where higher-ed meets high-tech at break-neck speed. This week Dale and Nick tackle a news cycle that rockets from schoolyard chatbots to nation-scale health analytics, dives into GenAi Video and hands you the prompt-writing cheats you’ll need to survive it all. Buckle up, charge your tokens, and let’s roll.🚀 Big-Ticket AI HeadlinesGemini for Kids is coming → Are the frameworks and regulatory considerations ready?TEQSA Gen-AI Hub → your free vault of academic-integrity guides, assessment-redesign blueprints, and AI p...2025-05-1826 minAdjunct Intelligence: AI + HECheat Codes & Chatbots: AI’s New Rules for Government, Commerce, and the ClassroomEverybody is cheating (allegedly), OpenAI for Government and the future of internet it is the third week of may and this is the first episode of Adjunct Intelligence, everything you need to know about Artificial intelligence and its impact on Higher Education. In the newsOpenAI just pitched “ChatGPT for Countries,” Alibaba and Google dropped fresh model upgrades, WPP plugged AI straight into its billion-dollar ad machine, and Meta is going to cure the lonliness epidemic. Meanwhile, Anthropic’s CEO warns we still don’t quite understand how AI works. Deep Dive #1 Segment: E...2025-05-1019 min
The Big Con PodcastBig Con Podcast Strategy MasterclassIn this landmark final episode, hosts Dale and Emily distill two years and 50 episodes worth of business strategy insights into actionable frameworks and lessons. From blue oceans to corporate karma, this masterclass serves as both a series finale and an entry point for new listeners wanting to understand strategic thinking in business.Key Timestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction & Episode Overview00:01:30 - Defining Strategy: Core Concepts00:06:02 - AI-Powered Analysis of Strategy00:13:54 - Framework 1: Blue Oceans StrategyCase Studies: Lego, Wirecard, Weight WatchersKey Lesson: Set boundaries before expansion00:19:15 - Framework 2: The Trust BankCase...2025-01-2633 min
The Big Con Podcast🔥 When Communities Turn Against You: The Dark Side of Building Business CommunitiesIs "build a community" the most dangerous business advice you've ever received? In this eye-opening episode, we dive into how your carefully cultivated community could become your biggest nightmare. Through cautionary tales of Etsy's identity crisis, Tumblr's spectacular self-destruction, and Reddit's ongoing power struggles, we explore what happens when profit meets passion.Discover:Why Etsy's journey from craft fair to Wall Street left artisans feeling betrayedHow Tumblr's attempt to become "advertiser-friendly" led to a mass exodusThe ongoing battle between Reddit's moderators and corporate interestsThe tricky balance between community values and commercial successPlus, we tackle the eternal September effect and ask...2024-12-1029 min
The Big Con PodcastBrain Chemistry & Bottom Lines: The ROI of NeurodiversityFrom workplace stigma to corporate innovation - dive into the real talk about neurodiversity at work. When a major luxury retailer's neurodivergent discrimination case hits the headlines, we unpack the bigger picture: why embracing neurodivergent talent isn't just good ethics, it's smart business. Did you know neurodivergent testing teams are 30% more productive? Discover how companies like HP and the Australian Defence Force are tapping into unique cognitive perspectives for competitive advantage. Plus, real talk about masking, workplace accommodations, and why that "perfect cultural fit" might be costing your company billions in lost talent. Whether you're a leader, HR pro, or...2024-11-2739 minThe Big Con PodcastNintendo V Playstation V Xbox 🎮 The Console Wars: Inside Gaming's $260 Billion BattleStep into the epic three-way battle for gaming dominance as we explore how Nintendo, Sony PlayStation, and Microsoft Xbox have carved out unique strategies in the $260 billion gaming industry. From Nintendo's "Blue Ocean" innovation-first approach to Sony's premium experiences and Microsoft's cloud-gaming revolution, discover how these tech titans have transformed entertainment while fighting for 3.2 billion global gamers.Key Strategic Insights:How Nintendo zigged while others zagged: The power of differentiation through family-friendly innovation and affordable technologyPlayStation's premium positioning: Leveraging exclusive content and cutting-edge hardwareMicrosoft's pivot: Why Xbox is betting big on...2024-11-1230 minThe Big Con PodcastIs Trump a good leader?This week on The Big Con, Emily and Dale examine the Harvard Business Review's comprehensive study on leadership failures, with former President Donald Trump serving as a compelling case study. From energy vampires to accountability dodgers, we're breaking down the ten fatal flaws that can derail even the most powerful leaders.🎯 Key Discussion Points:Why enthusiasm without substance is leadership's empty caloriesThe dangerous art of rationalizing mediocre performanceHow lacking clear vision transforms strategy into a game of pin the tail on the donkeyThe real cost of poor judgment (spoiler: it's not just financial)Why avoiding tough conversations is...2024-10-2951 minThe Big Con Podcast23andMe // The DNA Heist of the CenturyUnravel the double helix of 23andMe's rollercoaster journey from Silicon Valley darling to Wall Street wallflower.This episode decodes the DNA of a company that turned saliva into gold... and then watched it evaporate faster than you can say "genome sequencing."🧪 From $1000 kits to $99 spit tubes: How 23andMe made genetics go viral🔬 The FDA showdown: When regulators crashed the DNA party💊 Pivot or perish: 23andMe's adventurous leap into drug discovery💸 SPACs, hacks, and setbacks: The turbulent path to going public🩺 Telehealth dreams and Ozempic schemes: 23andMe's desperate bid for relevanceJoin us as we swab the...2024-10-1530 minThe Big Con PodcastBritney Spears and MKBHD // Oops!... She Did It Again: Britney's Restaurant Flop (feat. MKBHD's App Mishap)Hit us baby one more time with a juicy business blunder! This week, we're serving up a double whammy of celebrity missteps. First course: the pop princess's less-than-toxic foray into the restaurant biz. Britney Spears: Queen of the charts, not so much the kitchen. For dessert: a fresh slice of tech drama à la MKBHD.Highlights:From Mickey Mouse Club to Michelin dreams: Britney's recipe for restaurant disasterThe Louisiana-New York fusion that left fans saying 'Gimme More'... explanationWhy celebrity endorsements don't always taste like successThe not-so-lucky star: How Britney distanced herself faster than you can say 'It's Britney, witch!'MKBHD's wallpaper a...2024-10-0134 minThe Big Con PodcastTemu // Unmasking the Addictive E-commerce Empire🛒 Dive into the world of Temu, the e-commerce sensation that's got everyone clicking "Add to Cart" faster than you can say "free shipping"!Episode Highlights:🎰 ADHD Consumerism: Discover how Temu turns shopping into a dopamine-fueled casino experience🐔 Chicken Helmets & Beyond: Explore the weird and wonderful world of Temu's product offerings💸 The Price of Cheap: Unpack the ethical dilemmas and sustainability concerns behind those irresistible deals🕹️ Gamification Nation: Learn how Temu keeps you spinning, winning, and coming back for more🏗️ Amazon vs. Temu: The infrastructure showdown in the e-commerce arena💼 Business Model Breakdown: Will Temu's loss-leading strategy pay off, or is it a house of cards?🧠 The...2024-09-1731 minThe Big Con PodcastSegway // The invention that killed its ownerFrom the heights of being touted as "bigger than the internet" to becoming a punchline in popular culture, the Segway's journey is a fascinating case study in innovation, hype, and the importance of understanding your market. Join Dale and Emily as they dive into the rollercoaster ride of the Segway - the invention that just couldn't seem to find its footing. Discover the key missteps that led to the Segway's downfall, like pricing it out of reach, regulatory challenges, and an inability to adapt. But is it truly a failure, or could the Segway be considered a "successful fail"? Strap...2024-09-0328 minThe Big Con PodcastGoogle // How the giants fall. The search engines slippery slope to irrelevance.Is the world's favorite search engine losing its way? Dive into the digital drama as we dissect Google's journey from garage startup to tech titan. We'll explore:The rise of the data-hungry behemothWhy Google might be its own worst enemyThe AI race: How did the front-runner fall behind?Search results or ad bonanza? The blurring linesCan anyone topple this tech Goliath?Join us for a thought-provoking romp through Google's triumphs and tribulations. We'll ponder whether the company that once vowed not to be evil is now wrestling with its own moral compass. From antitrust headaches to AI stumbles, we're spilling...2024-08-2033 minThe Big Con PodcastAshley Madison// Digital Discretion Disaster: Chaos at the cheating factoryThe Big Con" tackles the scandalous world of Ashley Madison, the dating site that shook the internet. Join hosts Dale and Emily as they unpack the business strategies behind the infamous "Life is short. Have an affair" empire.🔍 Key points:The rise of Ashley Madison and its controversial marketing tacticsHow they expanded globally, including a cheeky campaign in IndiaThe catastrophic data breach that exposed millions of usersSurprising revelations about the company's security practices (spoiler: it's not what you think!)💼 Business insights:The importance of robust risk management for controversial venturesBalancing growth with user privacy and securityThe unexpected resilience of a b...2024-08-0628 minThe Big Con PodcastMarvel Comics // The Infinity Saga of SuccessIn this episode of The Big Con, hosts Emily and Dale explore the fascinating world of Marvel Comics, examining its storied history and the strategic lessons that can be gleaned from its journey. From its humble beginnings in 1939 to becoming a cultural powerhouse, Marvel has faced numerous challenges and triumphs. Join us as we uncover how Marvel’s strategies evolved through its bankruptcy, its resurgence with blockbuster films, and its current position in the entertainment industry.Season 4 is here!Marvel’s Early Days: Origins, first comic book, and introduction of iconic characters.The Stan Lee...2024-07-2338 min
The Big Con PodcastElon Musk VS OpenAI - Lesson's learned from a spicy season!Season 3 comes to a close in this insightful episode of "The Big Con Podcast," as we look back on the updates coming thick and fast from our tales of strategy successes and fails. We are tackling the nuances of industry feuds, lawsuits, and the ever-evolving landscape of corporate strategies, all while weaving in critical analyses on diversity and inclusion efforts, and the ethical implications of AI in business.Highlights of the Episode:Elon Musk's Legal Battles: A look into Elon Musk's propensity for getting involved in high-profile feuds and his recent lawsuit...2024-03-2033 minThe Big Con PodcastApple Vision Pro // Apple's pro vision - lessons from the Apple playbook that anyone can stealIn the latest episode of The Big Con, Emily and Dale are looking to the revolutionary Apple Vision Pro. Embarking on a journey to unravel the intricacies of Apple's latest innovation, discussing its potential to redefine the tech landscape. The Apple approach to product is a historical success so what can we take from these masters at product innovation from the small business owner to the average 9-5er.Key Highlights:Introduction to Apple Vision Pro: A detailed exploration of the Apple Vision Pro's features and its positioning in the tech world as a groundbreaking device...2024-03-0627 minThe Big Con PodcastKylie's Cosmetics // Forbes Vs Jenner's the billion dollar questionKylie Cosmetics is a household name, almost as much as the Kardashians/Jenners. However, Forbes and Kylie are in some heated disagreement regarding valuation discrepancies. The episode narrates Kylie's venture into the cosmetics industry, leveraging her brand and the viral attention around her lip fillers to launch Kylie's Lip Kit, eventually expanding into a full cosmetics line. It critically examines the Forbes article that reevaluated Jenner's billionaire status due to purported discrepancies in revenue reporting and the subsequent sale of a majority stake in Kylie Cosmetics to Coty Inc. The episode also touches on the strategic shifts within Coty Inc...2024-02-2829 minThe Big Con PodcastNVIDIA // Unveiling Nvidia's Masterstroke - From Gaming to AI DominanceFrom the Brink of Obscurity to a $1.7 Trillion Valuation: Nvidia's Unbelievable Journey - Dive into this episode of "The Big Con Podcast" as we peel back the layers of Nvidia's meteoric rise. Discover how a company known for its video game chips turned strategic pivots into an empire within the realms of artificial intelligence.Key Highlights:Epic Beginnings: Relive the moment Nvidia stepped onto the scene, against the backdrop of 1993's pop culture milestones.Strategic Genius: Unravel the daring decisions that catapulted Nvidia from the gaming alleys into the AI spotlight.2024-02-2134 minThe Big Con PodcastAct of Treason // The Australia v Mexican Tequila fight!The episode explores the intriguing story of "Act of Treason," an Australian-based alcohol company who have t aken a spicey approach to marketing, venturing into the agave spirits market, challenging traditional tequila norms. Emily and Dale are delving into the complexities of agave spirit production, marketing strategies, and the potential impacts on the tequila industry. They discuss how "Act of Treason" positions itself amidst global tequila demand and supply challenges, leveraging Australia's favorable conditions for blue agave cultivation. The conversation also touches on consumer education regarding agave spirits versus traditional tequila, the importance of marketing in creating brand identity, and...2024-02-1422 minThe Big Con PodcastShopify // Strategic Triumph and E-commerce Innovation ..and MoatsIn this episode, we explore Shopify's remarkable journey from its inception to becoming a powerhouse in e-commerce, boasting a market cap explosion to roughly $200 billion.The Big Con Podcast dives into Shopify's strategic maneuvers and what makes up its moat (all the things that make this impressive company stand out from its competition), including its innovative API, revolutionary growth solutions, and community-building efforts, all of which have solidified its position in the digital market space.Key Highlights:Shopify's Growth: From $3 billion in 2015 to peaking at approximately $200 billion.Community and Customer Service: The bedrock of Shopify's success...2024-02-0724 minThe Big Con Podcast40:40 Vision: DEI and more of the pie.Hesta's 40:40 vision.More diversity, more awareness and more transparency. Sounds great, right? But sometimes quotas, KPIs and metrics get in the way of a conversation. DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) is a hot topic at the moment, and rightly so; the Big Con is doing its part and discussing an incredibly complex issue.The Role of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators):Challenges and limitations of KPIs in business strategy.The potential for KPIs to stifle innovation and become a resource drain.KPIs and their impact on DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives.Leadership and Hiring Practices:The...2024-01-3126 minThe Big Con PodcastWhat do you do when someone copies your business? The Air BnB Horror StoryImagine you're running the best business ever, so good, that someone else makes a perfect copy. Down to the last pixel on your website? The Big Con is heading back to Air BnB because they found themselves in this exact scenario. Did they live to fight another day (well, yes, but how is where the magic is).Mastering Anti-Copycat Strategies:SIlicone valley horror storiesCultivating Brand Allegiance: Unveiling the secrets to building unbreakable brand loyalty.Standing Out from the Crowd:A detailed look at how Airbnb distances itself from the pack by adding exceptional value.Battle of...2024-01-2423 minThe Big Con PodcastOptus // Navigating Chaos, Killer Sharks and Saying Sorry.Episode Summary:This episode with hosts Emily Kay and Dale delves into the chaotic Optus outage of November 8, 2023, in Australia. Taking down emergency services, businesses and train lines - we look at the response and why it lead to a very public firing!Outage Overview: An in-depth look at the Optus outage timeline and its wide-reaching effects.Ripple Effects and Real-Life Consequences: Exploring the outage's impact on essential services, businesses, and the general public.Corporate Response and Apologies: Analyzing Optus's communication and apology strategy post-outage.Technical Causes: Understanding the technical failures that led to the outage...2024-01-1720 minThe Big Con PodcastNetflix // Streaming Kills the Video Star: How the streaming giant is contributing to the destruction of Hollywood!Overview:The Big Con Podcast is taking the strategic microscope to Netflix, and their journey from a DVD rental service to a streaming giant and its seismic impact on Hollywood.Deep analysis of the "Netflix Effect," reshaping TV shows and altering traditional media consumption.Highlights:Netflix's evolution since 1997: disrupting the video rental industry and spearheading the streaming revolution.The shift from traditional TV models to streaming: financial strategies, consumer behavior changes, and the rise of original content.Industry reaction: How giants like Disney and HBO are adapting in the wake of Netflix's success....2024-01-1031 min
The Big Con PodcastBeyond the Mission: Do you have to be good. 😈 If you're doing good? 🚀The Big Con spotlight shines on Home First, a Bay Area nonprofit grappling with the balance between its noble mission to fight homelessness and internal allegations of racial discrimination. We delve into how nonprofits like Home First can navigate the delicate dance of aligning their internal practices with their public missions, especially in the realms of legal compliance and ethical integrity. This conversation isn't just about the hurdles; it's a journey through the importance of inclusion, diversity, and ethical leadership in creating a genuinely impactful nonprofit environment. Tune in to uncover the nuanced layers of social responsibility in the nonprofit...2023-12-2027 minThe Big Con PodcastX: Killing two birds with one stone. Also, one of those Birds cost $44 BillionHave you ever wondered how quickly you can destroy 25 billion dollars in less than 365 days? The Con is embarking on Elon Musk's enigmatic journey with Twitter; our episode navigates the seismic shift from the familiar microblogging giant to the cryptic 'X.' Musk's audacious $44 billion acquisition unfolds in a corporate turmoil and strategic recalibration saga. The plot thickens as Musk discards Twitter's iconic bird logo, opting for 'X,' a move shrouded in intrigue given the inherent value of the recognized brand. Musk's paradoxical approach continues. as we decode this narrative, questions linger about Musk's endgame. Is this...2023-12-1322 minThe Big Con PodcastThe Airbnb Blueprint: Air Mattresses, Cereal Boxes and Wall Street!Ever wondered how AirBnB came about? The Y Combinator Success Story, had its humble origins from selling mattresses to a conference, and even had a whirl at selling cereal just to keep the lights on. The design powerhouse and short stay accomodation darling went through a rocky 2020 but came out the other side stronger than ever. But is it all smooth sailing ahead for AirBnB? Listen to the Big Con Podcast to find out!📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Dale are bringing you in on the Con. Strategy doe...2023-12-0628 minThe Big Con PodcastThe Explosion of OpenAI - The Silicon Valley Soap Opera and most exciting tale of 2023!🚀 Get ready for a wild ride on The Big Con Podcast! In this episode, witness the epic saga of Sam Altman's rollercoaster journey at OpenAI – fired, rehired, and everything in between. From boardroom drama to tech nerd speculation, it's a tale of twists, turns, and white hearts on social media. Discover the Paperclip Theory's unexpected relevance and join the hosts in a lively chat about the fine line between AI greatness and, well, paperclip disasters. Buckle up, laugh along, and delve into the chaos of Silicon Valley with a dash of humor – it's a podcasting rollercoaster like no other! 🎙️🎢📕Show Menu...2023-11-2933 minThe Big Con PodcastUnearthing poor planning (and Toxic Gas Leaks) on Snowy 2.0🌐 Dive into the underground world of Snowy 2.0 with your Big Con Hosts as they unearth the highs and lows of Australia's ambitious energy project. From a $2 billion dream to a $12 billion reality, the journey involves giant tunneling machines named Florence, toxic gas releases (surprise!), and a sinkhole-sized hiccup.😲🔍 Uncover the behind-the-scenes drama, questionable decision-making, and the lingering question: Should projects prioritize safety over political pressure? Tune in for laughs, insights, and a cautionary tale about what happens when good intentions meet bad execution. 🚧🤷♂️Four Corners Episode: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=GJhxRknHCvU📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshow...2023-11-2219 minThe Big Con PodcastLeadership in a Crisis: Genghis Khan, he isn't a modern day manager role modelStep into the tumultuous year of 2020 as we unravel the contrasting leadership styles of Jacinda Ardern and Boris Johnson during the global crisis. In this episode, we examine how Ardern's decisive actions in New Zealand led to one of the lowest COVID-19 death rates, while Johnson's controversial strategy in the UK faced setbacks. Join us for a gripping exploration of leadership essentials – clarity on goals, flexibility, ethics, empathy, and transparency. Discover the pivotal role these traits play in inspiring confidence and achieving organizational effectiveness. Don't miss this thought-provoking analysis of leadership under pressure.📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bc...2023-11-1531 minThe Big Con PodcastCyborgs and Centaurs: Unleashing the Power of ChatGPT and the Strategic DivideIn our latest episode, the Con is diving into the AI revolution of 2023 and how it's changing the game for knowledge workers. Remember the release of ChatGPT by OpenAI? It's like your super-smart computer friend, always ready for a chat or to help with tasks. But it's way more than just auto-suggesting words; it can write poems, stories, and much more. But here's the kicker - ChatGPT isn't just for the tech elite. Anyone can access it for free and even find it embedded in Microsoft's Bing search engine. It's AI for all! In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking...2023-11-0818 minThe Big Con PodcastNike and Budweiser: Navigating allyship and strategyThe Big Con is diving into complex issues!This episode looks at Branding, culture, and diversity, examining the stories of corporate giants Bud Light and Nike as they navigate sponsorship with trans activist and internet sensation Dylan Mulvaney. Bud Light, a beer powerhouse, faces a turbulent response after a collaboration with Dylan, leading to stock losses and widespread boycotts. Meanwhile, Nike's sponsorship of Mulvaney sparks a similar controversy, drawing attention from Olympians and politicians advocating for a boycott. This episode unravels the intricate dance brands perform between inclusivity and the risk of alienating their core audience and the lessons...2023-11-0129 minThe Big Con PodcastHot Harvard Summer - We're Back!Dale and Emily are BACK with a new season and a new look…or listen rather. Without any feedback at all, we thought you might want more content, more regularly, and so we are bringing you bite-sized strategy pieces for your listening pleasure.Our first snack pack episode features: 🏃♀️The rundown on our first season🤷A ‘Where have they been’ moment🥵The Hot Harvard Summer Top 3 Learnings🕊️And a partridge in a pear tree**Actual partridge and pear tree may be overstated. 📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Da...2023-10-2516 min
The Big Con PodcastDale finishes strategy, why Compliance is Crap and the Calombaris redemption arch.Season 2 Wrap-Up🎙️ HELLO, Business Enthusiasts and Strategy Nerds! Dale and Emily are here with your regular roundup of business insights sprinkled with a hint of humour. This lesson's learned Episode Features:🚀 There are only a few types of strategy, trust me ;)📉 Lessons from the Season: Unpacking the missteps and takeaways.🔥 PwC Update: Shifts, changes, and the path ahead.🍽️ George's Next Step: The buzz around Hellenic House.⚖️ Wirecard Outcome: A brief recap of the unfolding drama.🍎 Weight Watchers' Move: Exploring their new direction.🏆 Con of the Season📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and D...2023-08-0825 minThe Big Con PodcastThe not so Essential Phone: The DOA iPhone Killer.Get ready for an intriguing exploration of ambition, innovation, and controversy on the penultimate episode of season 2 of "The Big Con" podcast. Join Emily and Dale as they scrutinise the colossal failure of Essential Products, the brainchild of Android inventor, Andy Rubin. Journey behind the scenes of a company that had Silicon Valley's attention but ultimately crumbled under the weight of its promises. Emily and Dale dissect the key factors contributing to the company's demise, from an overambitious leader to an unwanted product, and a damaging scandal that left lasting shockwaves in the tech world. Trace the trajectory of high...2023-07-2529 minThe Big Con PodcastThe ABCs of Debt fuelled growthIn this episode, you will be able to:Uncover the reasons behind the unexpected crash of ABC Learning.Understand the delicate balance between aggressive expansion and sustainable business growth.Navigate the murky waters of ethical dilemmas within the childcare industry.Discover why personalization in childcare is more than just a buzzword—it's an essential guide to nurturing future generations.Explore the underrated power of humility in leadership and learn when to make the difficult decision to move on.📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Dale...2023-07-1129 minThe Big Con PodcastGeorge Calombaris: Food for thought on underpayment scandalIn this episode, we delve into the captivating journey of George Calombaris, a Greek culinary icon and MasterChef Australia judge. From being an ambitious son of migrants to becoming an international celebrity chef and building a restaurant empire, George's story is not short of triumph and controversy. We discuss his impressive career milestones, his advocacy for hard work, and the shocking scandal that led to a $7.83 million wage underpayment confession, the closure of his restaurants, and public outrage. Join us as we unravel the mystery behind the downfall of this culinary giant and explore the bigger picture about hospitality industry...2023-06-2728 minThe Big Con PodcastJuggling Trust & Taxes: The PWC Tax ScandalJoin us as we dive into the PwC tax scandal, where insider knowledge meets gross breach of trust. We explore how PwC's involvement in shaping Australia's tax laws led to a circus of juggling interests, falling heads, and new lessons. Stay tuned for a real-life spectacle and a case of being cautionary when dealing with consultants! 📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Dale dive into the wild world of business blunders and figure out where things went wrong (or right, but mostly wrong) and use the...2023-06-1329 minThe Big Con PodcastWhat happened to Myspace: From Top 8 to not so great.On this week's episode, we're taking a nostalgic trip down memory lane to the era of MySpace! Before Zuckerberg, Spotify, and smartphones, we were coding profile pages and curating the perfect friend's list. Learn about its rise and fall, the marketing tactics that went wrong, and how it changed the social media landscape. From being a platform for budding musicians like Lily Allen and Arctic Monkeys to a victim of over-advertising and bad user interface, let's dissect the story of MySpace. Also, find out why it's more important to keep up with the technological Joneses. Tune in for a chat...2023-05-3027 minThe Big Con PodcastWirecard // Dot Com Darling to Fintech Disgrace - Espionage and Unicorns!This episode is not for the faint of heart we are spinning the tale of Wirecard, the German fintech darling turned scandal central. Expect tech wunderkinds, risky markets, accounting trickery, and a dash of journalist intimidation. Remember, unicorns aren't always what they seem - sometimes they're just goats wearing party hats! Tune in for a wild journey through the world of corporate shenanigans.📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Dale dive into the wild world of business blunders and figure out where things went wrong (or...2023-05-1631 minThe Big Con PodcastWeight Watchers // Rebrand mistake that almost destroyed the companyOnce a household name that once dominated the wellness industry but ultimately struggled to adapt to changing societal attitudes. From its humble origins and the impact of its points system to the decision to rebrand as WW, we'll delve into the factors that contributed to the company's downfall. Explore how WW's failure to shift its focus from weight loss to holistic wellness led to controversial decisions, such as introducing Kurbo, a weight loss app for children. We'll also examine the financial fallout, the role of Oprah Winfrey, and a series of unfortunate events that tarnished the brand's reputation. Finally, learn...2023-05-0228 minThe Big Con PodcastF45: Can Mark Wahlberg save this Fair Dinkum Fitness Favourite?We're back for season 2! Everybody knows someone and their aunty who has partaken in the F45 Fitness Craze. But much like a sprinter who forgot to warm up or a bodybuilder who forgot their protein shake, F45 is in trouble!Join us as we dive into the captivating story of F45, the innovative fitness franchise that took the world by storm, faced its share of challenges, and now eyes a potential comeback.📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Dale dive into the wild wor...2023-04-1829 minThe Big Con PodcastLessons Learned: Em's apology to marketers, Gubernors and the importance of doing the right thingJoin us as we wrap up Season 1 and discuss critical takeaways, updates, and lessons learned from the fascinating stories we've covered this season. From Volkswagon's grand fall, the Lego Universe, to the return of Ed Hardy, we've got plenty of exciting updates to share. Plus, we touch on the importance of good governance and avoiding entrepreneurial silos. And, of course, we can't forget our "Con of the Season," tune in to find out who! Listen in and enjoy!📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Dale div...2023-03-2827 minThe Big Con PodcastBig Review TV: The Big Con OriginsWhat can be said about Big Review TV that hasn't already been summed up by the Australian Financial Review's article titled "The story behind Australia's worst accounting scandal?"Well turns out plenty! Join Emily and Dale for a special Big Con Origins Episode as we take Disco Lab's Victoria Beal through the Ill-fated Big Review TV, an almost-Australian-tech-unicorn, a 2017 stock market darling before transitioning into a cautionary tale of questionable accounting no longer to be heard of again.This is the wildest ride of the season, and we were in the passenger seats - strap in! 2023-03-2142 minThe Big Con PodcastVolkswagen: how a toxic work culture led to the ‘Dieselgate’ emissions scandalWhat led to a multi-billion dollar company lying to government bodies, your staff being jailed and putting people's lives at risk? We dive into the Volkswagen emissions scandal, environmental crimes, cheating scandals, and doubling down instead of admitting defeat. The scandal raises questions about the internal culture at Volkswagen and what leads to a GDP-impacting disaster!📕Show Menu - https://bit.ly/bcpshowmenuThe Big Con Podcast: Emily and Dale dive into the wild world of business blunders and figure out where things went wrong (or right, but mostly wrong) and use...2023-03-1435 minThe Big Con PodcastLego Pt 2: Why creating a universe is so hard!Lego, the toy company that had recently bounced back from near bankruptcy, had set its sights on innovation. Their target: massively multiplayer online (MMO) video games. Despite their previous failures in the video game industry, Lego was determined to make a digital version of their iconic bricks a reality. They wanted to capture the audience who preferred virtual building, and they knew they had to act fast before someone else did. After reaching out to 51 different video game design companies, they settled on NetDevil to help bring Lego Universe to life. But as preproduction began, things got off to a...2023-03-0732 minThe Big Con PodcastLego Pt 1: The end of the brickIt's hard to imagine a world without Lego - the colourful, interlocking bricks that have captured the hearts and imaginations of children and adults alike for generations. But did you know this beloved toy almost didn't exist as we know it today?In the latest episode of the Big Con Podcast, we explore the drama-ridden story of how Lego went from a family-owned Billund toy company to a global powerhouse - and almost lost it all in the process. A tale filled with restructures, lay-offs, and blue-sky thinking, this cautionary tale is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovation...2023-02-2834 minThe Big Con PodcastEbay and Skype: Finding your perfect match in 4 easy steps!Remember when Ebay owned Skype? We do!In this riveting podcast episode, we delve into the world of mergers and acquisitions (M&As) and uncover a shocking truth: many deals end up worse for the outcome. Emily and Dale will provide a compelling case study of eBay's acquisition of Skype, a $2.6 billion deal that, on the surface, was a big old failure, but the truth is much more interesting. Like Romeo and Juliet, eBay and Skype came from different worlds. eBay was a platform connecting independent buyers and sellers primarily through auctions. Skype was a Voice Over Internet Protocol...2023-02-2132 minThe Big Con PodcastQuibi: The $1.75 Billion Streaming Platform you've probably never heard ofThis episode looks at Quibi, the "quick bites" mobile-only streaming service that no one had ever heard of, except for maybe the 175 celebrities who starred in its content. A Star-studded lineup of original content? Check. Big-name investors? Check. A marketing strategy that perhaps didn't make sense? You betcha! Quibi's business model was like trying to sell ice to Eskimos... on Mars. Our listeners will learn many lessons from this episode. Lessons that could have been learned by Quibi should they have done broader user testing before launching. In a crowded market, find out the about the many errors made by...2023-02-1432 minThe Big Con PodcastYoung Living: Why you would choose MLM as your preferred business model. No…really, why?We discuss the rise of Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) companies, specifically focusing on the wellness industry and essential oils. The essential oils industry is currently valued at US$ 19.7 billion as of 2021, making it a popular target for MLM companies. We explore the recruitment process of MLM companies and how they encourage flexible working, word-of-mouth sales, and passionate employees but also lead to manipulation and misinformation. Our case study for this episode is the company Young Living and its founder, Gary Young. We delve into the questionable background of Gary Young, including his unaccredited degree in Naturopathy and past controversies. We also...2023-02-0833 minThe Big Con PodcastDreamer Candle Co: Gone Viral - A tik toking time bombWe discuss the story of Jarnah and her candle company, Dreamer Candle Co. Jarnah, a student and entrepreneur, started making and selling high-quality, affordable candles online during lockdown and turned to TikTok to reach customers. The platform's algorithm can push a video to go viral overnight with just a few likes, leading to rapid growth for businesses. However, the unpredictable nature of TikTok's algorithm can also be a drawback, as it can suddenly stop promoting a company's content, leading to a drop in sales. Jarnah was able to succeed on TikTok by creating relatable content for small business owners, such...2023-02-0826 minThe Big Con PodcastEd Hardy Fashion: Not so fast fashion - The Ed Hardy Brand StoryGet ready for a wild ride through the late 2000s a time of the Global Financial Crisis, Bitcoins, and the Marvel Cinematic Universe (aka the good old days) And what better way to kick off this time machine than with the story of the Ed Hardy Fashion brand, one of the few brands of clothing to be banned in certain establishments and the ultimate symbol of …well we all know. But before you go reaching for your Ed Hardy trucker hat and rhinestone-encrusted Tiger t-shirt, hold on a minute! There's more to the story than just tacky clothing and desperate at...2023-02-0828 minThe Big Con PodcastThe Big Con Podcast TrailerWelcome to The Big Con, the podcast where we dive into the wild world of business blunders and figure out where things went wrong (or right, but let's be real, mostly wrong) and use the benefit of hindsight and a healthy dose of schadenfreude to look at where there was an impact on either their profit, their brand, or something much more dire. Hosted by Emily Kay, a Harvard Extension Student and founder of the Big Consulting Agency, Dale, a business nerd with an obsession for many things, the Big Con examines the stories of businesses that refused to invest...2023-02-0501 min