Shows
Tales from the #FinTech CryptS2 E3 - Innovating for a Sustainable Future - Gustavo VinacuaInnovating for a Sustainable Future - Gustavo Vinacua💥 SummaryIn this compelling episode of Tales from the FinTech Crypt, Duena Blomstrom sits down with Gustavo Vinacua, a sustainability and innovation strategist and former driving force behind BBVA’s transformation into a FinTech innovation leader. This isn’t just a story about banking - it’s a front-row seat to how legacy institutions evolve, how sustainability became a serious business lever, and why emotional intelligence and diversity are critical to the future of finance.From building human-first systems to challenging the status qu...2025-04-0730 min
NeuroSpicy @ WorkS2E3 - Neurodivergence, Kindness and Radical Acceptance - Nick DeanKeywordsNeuroKindness, autism, neurodiversity, stigma, workplace, community, empowerment, leadership, education, mental healthSummaryIn this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Nick Dean explore the journey of neurodiversity advocacy, focusing on Nick's personal experiences with autism and the stigma surrounding it. They discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of disclosing neurodiversity in the workplace, and the need for authenticity in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the potential of neurodiversity as an asset in business and the necessity of transforming education to better support future generations....2025-03-1142 minTales from the #FinTech CryptS2E2 - Past and Future OGs of FinTech - Matteo RizziIn this engaging conversation, Duena Blomstrom interviews Matteo Rizzi, a prominent figure in the fintech industry, discussing his extensive journey through fintech, investment in emerging markets, and the creation of impactful initiatives like TimePledge. They explore the intersection of sustainability and finance, the importance of talent management, and the need for authenticity and courage in innovation. The discussion highlights the future of fintech, focusing on digital assets and financial inclusion, particularly in Africa.TakeawaysMatteo Rizzi has 25 years of experience in fintech.Investing in Africa is a key focus for Matteo.TimePledge aims to coach...2025-02-2648 min
NeuroSpicy @ WorkS2E2 - Becoming Happier (while NeuroSpicy) at Work - Aoife O'BrienSummaryIn this episode, Duena Blomstrom and Aoife O'Brien discuss their personal journeys with neurodiversity, focusing on autism and ADHD. They explore the challenges of navigating corporate environments, the impact of masking, and the importance of self-acceptance and disclosure. The conversation highlights the need for better workplace cultures that accommodate neurodiverse individuals and the potential for advocacy within organizations. They also touch on the future of neurodiversity in the workplace and the significance of personal growth and awareness.TakeawaysBoth hosts have been fighting for better workplaces for neurodiverse individuals.Understanding one's neurodiversity...2025-02-1038 minTales from the #FinTech CryptS2E1 - Bridging Passion and Data in Finance – A Deep Dive with Andra SoneaSummaryIn this thought-provoking conversation, Duena Blomstrom sits down with Andra Sonea to unravel the intricate evolution of fintech and its transformative impact on banking. From the once-niche fintech events to the mainstream revolution of open banking, they explore the critical shifts that have redefined financial services.Together, they dissect the complex relationship between front-end and back-end banking systems, the ongoing battle with technical debt, and the persistent gap between business and IT. Andra shares invaluable insights from her research, highlighting the transition from practitioner to academic and why banking must be seen as a...2025-01-3041 minNeuroSpicy @ WorkNS@W S2E1 - Neurospicy Journeys through Education and Career Choices -Craig CockburnSummaryIn the Season 2 premiere of NeuroSpicy@Work, Duena Blomstrom sits down with tech leader and neurodiversity advocate Craig Cockburn to explore the realities of being neurodivergent in the workplace. They dive into the benefits of hyperfocus, the struggles with motivation, and the importance of recognizing individual learning styles. The conversation highlights the urgent need for more inclusive environments in both education and the tech industry while shedding light on everyday advocacy for neurodiverse individuals.TakeawaysNeurodivergence can be an asset in the workplace.Personal experiences shape our understanding of neurodiversity...2025-01-1641 min
NeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E8 - Continuous Improvement and ADHD - Chris StoneIn this dynamic episode of NeuroSpicy@Work, host Duena Blomstrom dives into an inspiring and eye-opening conversation with Agile guru Chris Stone, who opens up about his ADHD journey. Together, they explore how neurodiversity fuels creativity in the workplace, why medication can be a game-changer, and how fostering an inclusive environment benefits everyone. Chris shares his candid experiences with rejection sensitivity and the impact of workplace policies on neurodiverse individuals, shedding light on the power of empathy and clear communication. This episode is packed with insights and practical advice for embracing neurodiversity in professional spaces!Takeaways...2024-12-0329 minTales from the #FinTech CryptTFTFC - S1E8 - The Role of FinTech in the AI-driven world of the Future - Brett KingSummaryIn this episode, Duena Blomstrom and Brett King dive into the transformation of banking from traditional branches to a digital-first future. They discuss AI's role in reshaping financial services, the philosophical shifts needed in our economic models, and how AI could intersect with climate change. The conversation also touches on generational value changes, the ethical challenges around AI, and the importance of keeping the human touch in tech and finance. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of fintech, technology, and building a sustainable world.TakeawaysBranches are becoming educational centers...2024-11-2840 minNeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E7 - From Late Diagnosis to Advocating for Neurodivergence as a Strength - David GunterIn this engaging discussion, Duena Blomstrom and David Gunter delve into the multifaceted realities of living and working as an autistic individual. David opens up about his deeply personal journey of self-discovery, from navigating life pre-diagnosis to embracing his identity post-diagnosis. Together, they unpack the challenges of thriving in professional spaces, the courage it takes to self-disclose, and the powerful ways autism can be reframed as a superpower. The conversation highlights the critical role of clear communication, workplace inclusivity, and community support while exploring society's evolving understanding of neurodiversity.TakeawaysDavid was diagnosed with autism...2024-11-2045 minTales from the #FinTech CryptTFTC - S1E7 - FinTech Ecosystems and Rails - Nasir ZubairiGet ready for an exciting and honest conversation as Duena Blomstrom and Nasir Zubairi dive into the fascinating evolution of the FinTech industry! From its humble beginnings to the entrepreneurial journeys that shaped it, they explore where we are now and the innovations pushing financial services forward. You'll hear all about the challenges startups face, the cultural hurdles in traditional banking—including their infamous spaghetti backend systems—and whether banks can truly embrace Agile and customer-centric ways of working. They pull no punches while also discussing the game-changing potential of AI. The discussion wraps up with hopeful predictions for the...2024-11-1843 min
The Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesSSHWA - S2E3 - Reacting to HR Trends and TikToks on GenZers, Hustle Culture, Teal Organisations and Ghost Job AdsJoin Dr. Alessandria Polizzi and Duena Blomstrom for a captivating discussion on the future of workplace culture, featuring TikToks that are analyzed and blind-reacted to in real-time. They explore how TikTok trends are reshaping our ideas about work, from the influence of Gen Z to the rise of teal organizations. With fresh takes on leadership challenges, mental health, and the end of hustle culture, this conversation is packed with insights and humor as they navigate what’s next for the job market. Don't miss out on this engaging and thought-provoking exchange!TakeawaysThe workplace is being si...2024-11-1148 minTales from the #FinTech CryptS1E6 - The Future of Banking is (still) in Personalisation - Alex JimezIn this lively conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Alex Jimenez, both members of the "FinTech Mafia ThinkTank," offer an insider's perspective on the fascinating journey of the fintech industry. They dive into its early beginnings, the struggles of driving innovation in traditional banking, and envision an exciting future where banking becomes truly personalized and consumer-centric. With a focus on how technology is reshaping finance, they reflect on the industry's evolution and the urgent need for banks to keep pace with changing customer expectations. It's an insightful discussion about where fintech has been, where it's headed, and how it’s transforming th...2024-11-0532 min
NeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E6 - Dave Grund - Living Out LoudIn this intensely heartfelt and very emotional conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Dave Bulhart discuss the challenges of mental health in the workplace, particularly for those who identify as neurodiverse or LGBTQ+. They reflect on their experiences in the corporate world, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the need for a cultural shift towards accepting emotional expression in professional settings. Dave shares his personal journey from a high-pressure banking career to advocating for mental health, emphasizing the significance of understanding trauma and personal accountability. They also explore the future of work for those who are "queer", the role of technology...2024-11-0143 min
Tales from the #FinTech CryptS1E5 - Curating Innovation for FinTech Success - Alessandro HatamiIn this lively conversation, Duena Blomstrom sits down with Alessandro Hatami, a former banker turned FinTech trailblazer and innovation catalyst, to dive into the evolution of the FinTech industry. They tackle the challenges faced by traditional banks and the exciting opportunities that collaboration between incumbents and challengers can bring. With insights into how banks must adapt to truly understand customer needs, the role of regulation as a catalyst for innovation, and the shifting landscape of employee well-being, this discussion is a must-hear for anyone interested in the future of finance. Duena and Alessandro highlight the ongoing journey of transformation...2024-10-2948 minNeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E5 - Nathan Chung - Women and Neurodivergence in TechnologyIn this conversation, Duena Blomstrom interviews Nathan Chung, a passionate advocate for neurodivergent individuals, particularly women in tech. Nathan shares his personal journey of late diagnosis with autism and ADHD, the challenges faced by women in the tech industry, and the stigma surrounding disclosure of neurodivergent conditions. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in advocacy and the need for organizations to adopt best practices for inclusivity. The discussion also touches on the future of remote work, the nonlinear career paths of neurodivergent individuals, and the critical journey of self-acceptance.TakeawaysNathan Chung is...2024-10-1443 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesSSHWA- S2E2 - Amazon's RTO Demands: Unhappy Bums on Seats in lieu of TalentIn this spirited and enlightening conversation, Duena Blomstrom and dr. Alessandria Pollizzi dive into the implications of Amazon's recent return-to-office mandate and what it means for workplace culture, employee well-being, and the future of work. They tackle the complexities of remote work policies, shedding light on the vital importance of inclusion and equity in today’s evolving landscape. With the looming threat of a talent crisis on the horizon adding to the mental health, burnout and leadership crisis already clear in some industries, they discuss how rigid workplace structures could push valuable employees away.This discussion isn’t ju...2024-10-0921 min
Tales from the #FinTech CryptS1E4 - The State of FinTech in 2024 and Beyond - Theodora LauIn this captivating episode of "Tales from the Fintech Crypt," join Duena Blomstrom and Theo Lau as they embark on a thought-provoking journey through the dynamic world of fintech. They delve into how the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the financial landscape and explore the ongoing challenges facing the banking sector today.With an insightful lens, Duena and Theo reflect on the incremental technological advancements that have emerged and highlight the urgent need for a cultural transformation within financial institutions. Their conversation spans generational perspectives on banking needs, shedding light on the crucial importance of financial inclusion for...2024-10-0848 min
NeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E4 - Angela Prentner-Adaptive Learning, Psychological Safety and Positive DiscriminationNOTE: This episode's video is out of sync despite our better efforts but we chose to feature its content as the discussion is important and the message too valuable to waste. In this lively conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Angela dive into their personal journeys with neurodiversity, shining a light on the importance of building workplaces that truly embrace neurodivergent individuals. They explore crucial topics like psychological safety, the hurdles of traditional schooling, and how gender intersects with neurodiversity in unique ways. With humor and insight, they unpack how cultural views on neurodiversity vary and the challenges of...2024-09-2752 min
Tales from the #FinTech CryptS1E3 - Exploring the True Passion for Innovation that Built FinTech - Roberta ProfetaIn this dynamic conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Roberta Profeta share captivating stories from their journeys in the FinTech world, diving deep into the transformation of banking and the bold challenges of driving innovation. They highlight the crucial roles culture and gender play in shaping change, while exploring how passion and authenticity define strong leadership. The discussion delves into cutting-edge topics like AI, blockchain, and the growing need for a holistic approach to innovation in financial services. Their insights offer an inspiring andTakeawaysRoberta Profeta is a key figure in the FinTech industry.Innovation...2024-09-2348 min
One Knight in ProductChris Locke's Hot Take - Product Leaders Need to Adopt a VC Mindset (with Chris Locke, CEO @ Aspire)Chris Locke is a long-time product leader who has taken his passion for educating product managers into his agency, Aspire, with which he aims to help product teams bridge the skills gap and equip them with the skills and resources to build products customers love.
His hot take? That product leaders need to adopt the mindset of Venture Capitalists to truly drive growth through their product initiatives; placing a series of bets, backed by data, with clear stage gates for decision-making and adopting a portfolio approach to product prioritisation.
Find Chris on LinkedIn and remember...2024-09-2217 minTales from the #FinTech CryptS1E2 - How FinTech was Built on Products and Passion - Einar GustafssonIn this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Einar Gustafsson discuss their very early experiences in the fintech industry and the challenges they faced. They reflect on their time working together and the innovative solutions they developed. They also explore the mindset and culture in Iceland that fosters innovation and resourcefulness. The conversation highlights the importance of building products with a focus on user experience and the struggles of implementing innovation within large organizations. Overall, it provides insights into the early days of fintech and the lessons learned along the way.----------------------The early days...2024-09-0637 minNeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E3 - Dan Harris - Autistic families and the many nuances of adaptations of NeuroDiversityIn this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Dan Harris discuss the topic of autism stigma and the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace. They explore the journey of self-disclosure and the challenges faced by individuals with autism in the business world. They also highlight the need for leaders to create a culture of psychological safety and inclusivity. The conversation touches on the role of privilege and the importance of addressing the needs of neurodivergent individuals in all types of organizations, not just large corporations. They emphasize the need for societal change and the creation of neuro-inclusive workplaces for the benefit...2024-09-0548 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS2E1 Coaching Women In STEM with Susan DiClementeIn this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Susan DiClemente discuss the importance of psychological safety and belonging in the workplace. They share their experiences of trying to promote these concepts and the challenges they faced. Susan now focuses on helping women in science and corporate navigate their organizations and build their communication skills. They emphasize the need for individuals to set expectations, establish boundaries, and make choices to navigate their careers successfully. They also discuss the impact of the current work environment on mental health and the importance of building relationships and making a positive difference in the lives of...2024-09-0141 minTales from the #FinTech CryptTFTFC - SE1E1 -A Walk Down Memory Lane -A Conversation with the "Daddy of Fintech"-Nektarios LioliosIn this conversation, Duena Blomstrom and Nektarios Liolios discuss the early days of fintech and the challenges faced in driving innovation within the banking industry. They reflect on the lack of fundamental change in the banking experience and the burnout experienced by those OGs working to digitally transform banks. They highlight the disconnect between the ambition for change and the lack of delivery capability within banks. They also discuss the need for banks to focus on the care towards their customers and the importance of addressing the needs of underrepresented communities. They conclude with a hopeful message that meaningful...2024-08-2333 min
Your Work Friends | Fresh Insights on the Now and Next of WorkHow to Reduce Human Debt in the Workplace w/ Duena Blomstrom Co-Founder of PeopleNotTech & Tech Led Culture AuthorSend us a textYou may not have heard the term Human Debt before. But, you've felt it. We had the privilege of sitting down with powerhouse Duena Blomstrom to talk about HumanDebt™ in the workplace.Duena is a HumanDebt™ fighter, author of Tech Led Culture, Co-founder of PeopleNotTech, and Neurospicy at Work. She also has a fantastic newsletter on LinkedIn, Chasing Psychological Safety,. How do broken promises and neglected well-being create a toxic anti-culture at work? Join us in a heart-to-heart with Duena Blomstrom, a leading voice in Human and T...2024-08-1338 min
NeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E2 - A Conversation on Ableism and Generational Differences with Becca Lory HectorThis conversation explores the progress and challenges in advocating for neurodiversity in the workplace. It highlights the importance of disclosure and accommodations for autistic individuals. The speakers discuss the growth of the autistic community and the need for self-awareness and acceptance. They also address the intersectionality of autism and other identities, such as race and gender. The conversation emphasizes the need for a shift in workplace culture to prioritize humanity and individual needs. The conversation explores the challenges faced by autistic individuals in society and the workplace, including the pressure to blend in and the need for accommodations. It...2024-08-0854 min
NeuroSpicy @ WorkS1E1 - Prof Dr Amanda Kirby- "There is no snake oil - just improved shared communication"In this episode of NeuroSpicy at Work, Duena Blomstrom and Prof Dr. Amanda Kirby discuss the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals in the workplace. They highlight the lack of support and accessibility for neurodiverse employees and the stigma surrounding neurodiversity. They emphasize the importance of shared communication and empathy in creating an inclusive work environment. They also discuss the role of social media in spreading information about neurodiversity, while cautioning about the need to critically evaluate the validity of the information. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of finding a tribe and the...2024-05-2421 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS1E11 - How AI will unfortunately help fearful middle managers who impression manage2023-11-0825 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS1E11 - How AI will help impression managing fearful middle managers first2023-11-0825 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesEpisode 10- Popcorn Experiments and Tools for Human Work HR Professionals, Burnout, Mental Health, Team Psychology - lean about easy ways to demonstrate the value of investing in the Human Work2023-10-2633 min
The Secret Society of Human Work Advocatess1 - Bonus - Interview with the Author of the Human Debt Concept and the "Tech-Led Culture" Book, Method and Tech.2023-10-0424 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS1 E 9 - Trust and Execs as Human Debt Fighters - Part 2-2023-09-2721 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS1E8 - On Trust and Empowering Human Debt Fighters and Preventers2023-09-2032 min
The Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS1E8 - On Trust and Empowering Human Debt Fighters and Preventers2023-09-2031 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS1E7 - "Just be vulnerable" and other bad human work advice.2023-09-1328 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesS1E6 - Penguins - Why We All Must Keep It Real and Speak the Same LanguageSee Linkedin to see the rest of this saga.2023-09-0631 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesTools to Stop Our Leaders Further Productivity Paranoia2023-08-2926 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesEpisode 4 - Who We Are As LeadersIn this USA - Canaries Island conversation, Duena and Alessandria return to the topic of authenticity, how difficult these times can be to leaders who have been propelled to people management on account of their technical proficiency; anti-patterns; things we found and things we learned.Listen and subscribe and come find us on Linked In or elsewhere by looking for The Secret Society of Human Work Advocates and Human Debt Fighters. 2023-08-2238 min
One Knight in ProductPaying Off Your Organisation’s Human Debt Through Agility & Psychological Safety (with Duena Blomstrom, Founder & CEO @ People Not Tech)Duena Blomstrom is a renowned fintech thought leader who got tired of seeing the same problems in the workplace and decided to go out and try to solve them. Duena took on banking culture with "Emotional Banking" before moving onto wider organisational change with "People Before Tech". We spoke about some of the common problems faced within organisations, how to try to solve them, and some of the reasons why companies resist those solutions.
Episode highlights:
Â
1. Santa Claus is not going to come and "puke a generative culture on your enterprise"
There are no magic b...2023-08-1142 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesThe One about Masks, TikTok and Authenticity2023-08-1030 min
The Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesSSHWA Season 1 Episode 2 - The One We Forgot to Title2023-08-0134 minThe Secret Society of Human Work AdvocatesWhy the Secret Society for the Human Work Advocates?2023-07-2431 min
Virtually AgileS5 - E5 - Duena Blomstrom - Psychological Safety and Human DebtIn this episode I'm joined by Author, Keynote Speaker, Founder & CPO - Duena Blomstrom
Â
In this 42 min episode, we talk about
Why psychological safety is so important
What Human debt is and how to tackle it
The 4-day work week - Is it the answer?
2023-07-1342 min
Real TechnologistsReal Technologists: Duena BlomstromTrac Bannon: To be honest, I don't remember when or how I was introduced to Duena Blomstrom. I do know that throughout the lockdowns, we began randomly hopping on calls together and chatting. It really helped us navigate the seeming melees that embrace the globe during the lockdowns. We are constantly finding strong deep topics that focus on humans. We've debated gender affirming care, child rearing, and the joys of having a partner. And if I can be totally honest, I'd consider her a friend and a crush. That's right, a crush. This is not a...2023-07-1324 min
Happier At Work®147: From Burnout to Bliss: Building a culture of well-being with Lesley CooperAre you tired of feeling overwhelmed and stressed out at work? We know how tough that can be, and this week's guest Lesley Cooper is here to help you leap from burnout to bliss. Lesley is the proud owner of WorkingWell Limited, which helps businesses across the globe create engaged and energised cultures whilst supporting sustainable and healthy performance levels. Get ready to discover how employee well-being and performance are increasingly intertwined within the modern workplace. Lesley shares fascinating insights on creating a psychologically safe culture and emphasises the importance of addressing work-related stress, recognising internal narratives...2023-03-171h 00
Cloud RealitiesCR011: Criticality of Psychological Safety in Digital Transformation with Duena Blomstrom, People Not TechModern ways of working require significant engagement from everyone involved to ensure the right things are getting done and the right time and the levels of creativity are sustained for innovation. How do we get the balance right?Dave, Sjoukje & Rob are joined by Duena Blomstrom, CEO of PeopleNotTech, author and influencer to discuss what drives a teams performance is it process, technology, method, or does it come down to things that are actually far more human? The team discuss why Psychological Safety remains a critical element in driving outcomes from modern teams and get an insight in...2023-02-0934 min
Happier At Work®132: How you can lead and build a thriving organisation with Lisa Marie PlatskeWant to know the secret to building and leading a thriving organisation!? If so, this episode is a must-listen for you! Joining Aoife this week is the founder of Upside Thinking, international best-selling author, expert leadership coach and keynote speaker Lisa Marie Platske. Lisa’s mission is to transform lives through leadership, allowing people to break expectations and bring their whole selves forward.Throughout the discussion, Lisa provides insight into her past experience working in a male-dominated industry as a federal law enforcement officer on the piers of New York. So much ground gets covered in this di...2022-11-1848 min
Happier At Work®121: Getting your voice heard at work with Aoife O’Brien‘’In a research study that I conducted recently, 90% of people who took the survey were experiencing impostor syndrome or had experienced it in the past.’’ – Aoife O’Brien.Welcome back to Happier at Work. To continue the exploration of unhappiness at work, this week, Aoife unpacks a popular topic that arose on LinkedIn: getting your voice heard at work. Speaking up at work can be a challenge for many. To help shed some light, Aoife will discuss two contributing pillars to tackling this obstacle: psychological safety and imposter syndrome. Throughout the episode, Aoife discusses the benefits of...2022-09-0215 min
The Humans of DevOps Podcast SeriesTackling Human Debt - the key to high-performing teams with Duena BlomstromOn this episode of the Humans of DevOps, Jason Baum is joined by Duena Blomstrom
(@DuenaBlomstrom) co-founder, CPO, and CEO of People Not Tech and the author of People Before Tech. 🗣 They discuss:
Human Debt
Psychological safety
What leaders can do to reduce human debt
Psychological Safety, a group dynamic in teams, is a concept defined by academics – in particular Prof Dr Amy Edmondson from Harvard – and studied by Google – in their Project Aristotle looking at high performing teams – and it has been proven to be the cornerstone of any team’s productivity. Teams that have high Psychological...2022-05-3143 min
Mastering AgilityS03 E02 Psychological safety and Human Debt with Duena BlomstromWho likes working in an environment where there’s a constant fear of repercussions when voicing an unpopular opinion? Or where someone else steals your glory? No one, right? It’s way more important to feel safe and comfortable speaking up when something is not right. An environment where it’s okay to fail and learn.CEO, serial entrepreneur, Forbes contributor, and public speaker Duena Blomstrom joins Sander Dur to discuss psychological safety and a term that she calls Human Debt and what the impact is on the workspace. What you’ll discover in this s...2022-01-1247 min