Shows
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityCultivating a Humble and Curious Mindset - Guest: Meg SmithSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Meg Smith, a prominent figure in the tech industry and co-founder of the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge. Meg shares her journey from advertising to tech, her advocacy for indigenous representation, and her insights on the role of AI in business. The conversation delves into the challenges of implementing AI solutions, the importance of security, and the need for organizations to focus on user experience. Meg also emphasizes the significance of defining personal success and aligning values in both personal...2025-04-1052 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityFrom IT Help Desk to Freelance Consultant - Guest: Suhail SayedSend us a message!In this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Suhail Sayed, a freelance principal consultant specialising in Microsoft 365 migrations. Suhail shares his diverse career journey, from working in retail and IT help desks to becoming a successful freelancer. He discusses the cultural nuances of career paths in India, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of focusing on sales for business growth. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of IT consulting and the significance of personal development through coaching.TakeawaysSuhail transitioned from retail...2025-03-2724 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityB.C. - Guest: Andy WingateSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Andy Wingate, Business Central Practice Director at Venture. The conversation explores Andy's journey from an end-user role to consultancy, the significance of community in the Microsoft ecosystem, and the importance of soft skills in professional services. They discuss the features and growth of Microsoft Business Central, the challenges faced during implementations, and the value of continuous learning and networking in the tech industry. Andy shares insights on transitioning careers, the importance of embracing discomfort, and the future of...2025-03-1329 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityUnexpected Hats - Guest: Ulrikke AkerbækSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Ulrikke Akerbæk, a Microsoft Business Applications MVP, to discuss her journey in the Power Platform space, particularly focusing on Power Pages. Ulrikke shares her experiences transitioning from web development to Power Pages, emphasizing the importance of understanding the product's capabilities and the need for effective marketing. The conversation also touches on the challenges of adoption, the significance of community support, and the recent availability of Power Pages in Norway. In this conversation, Ulrikke discusses the challenges of data c...2025-03-0643 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityArchitect Accelerator! - Guest: Sean AstrakhanSend us a message!In this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Sean Astrakhan, a seasoned solutions architect and the creator of Untethered 365 and the Solution Architect Accelerator Course. The conversation delves into Sean's journey from working in a Mexican restaurant to becoming a tech expert, emphasising the importance of communication and learning from mistakes. They discuss the significance of advanced training in the Power Platform, the pitfalls of over-engineering, and the necessity of understanding the problem before selecting the right tools. Sean shares insights on innovative solutions within the Power Platform and offers a...2025-02-2745 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityMaking Changes - Guest: Mike BlairSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we meet with Mike Blair, who shares his journey through various career transitions. The conversation explores the importance of embracing change, overcoming career stagnation, and the value of diverse perspectives in the workplace. Mike discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome and emphasizes the significance of building confidence and asking for help. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth and the evolving nature of career paths.TakeawaysSometimes you need to shake things up to get...2025-02-2032 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityJourney Back to Tech - Guest: Shabana KhatauSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Shabana Khatau, a tech professional and football coach. Shabana shares her inspiring journey from a strict upbringing in Sweden to pursuing a career in technology, overcoming cultural barriers, and her passion for empowering young girls through football. The conversation explores her transition back into tech, the impact of automation at Network Rail, and the parallels between coaching and tech development. Shabana also discusses her experiences in the 'Uncomfortable Corner', reflecting on challenges faced in her coaching journey.2025-02-1327 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & Neurodiversity[EXPLICIT] Filthy Mouth Cooky - Guest: Carl (Cooky) CooksonSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, hosts Jon Russell and Mike Gowland welcome Carl Cookson, head of professional services at Power 365 Solutions. The conversation covers Carl's journey in IT, his contributions to the XrmToolBox, and the importance of community engagement in the tech industry. They discuss the impact of community tools on development, the dynamics of the Power Platform Dev Weekly team, and personal reflections on comfort zones and professional growth. The episode concludes with light-hearted banter and insights into the future of tech communities.2025-02-0626 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityPutting Good In - Guest: Lucy ElliottSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Lucy Elliott, a recruitment consultant at Conspicuous. Lucy shares her journey from being a qualified sports therapist to entering the recruitment industry, driven by the need for financial stability. The conversation delves into the importance of communication in recruitment, the challenges faced in the industry, and the significance of building genuine relationships with clients and candidates. Lucy also discusses her experiences with imposter syndrome, her involvement in the Dynamics 365 community, and her journey in podcasting. The episode concludes with...2025-01-3035 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityMr Licensing - Guest: Sunil KumarSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode we welcome Sunil Kumar, a seasoned expert in the Power Platform space. Sunil shares his journey into the Power Platform, his experiences with AI prompts, and how they have been implemented in real-world client scenarios. The conversation also delves into the complexities of Power Platform licensing, the importance of community engagement, and the challenges consultants face when navigating client expectations. Sunil emphasizes the value of both generalists and specialists in the Power Platform ecosystem and concludes with insights on the role of consultants in driving innovation...2025-01-0930 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityNow in Technicolor - Guest: Howdang RashidSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of Sprint Zero, hosts Jon Russell and Mike Gowland welcome Howdang Rashid, a Power Platform expert, to discuss his journey into the world of technology and automation. Howdang shares insights on the importance of community, the role of generative AI, and the path to becoming a content creator. He emphasizes the need for automation in overcoming manual processes and introduces his initiative, Power Academy, aimed at guiding new developers in the Power Platform space. The conversation highlights the potential career paths within the Power Platform and...2025-01-0228 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityEmbracing Vulnerability - Guest: Angeliki PatsiavouSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode, we're joined by Angeliki Patsiavou, a Senior Dynamics 365 and Power Platform Consultant. We explore various themes including the impact of AI and Copilot Studio, the importance of vulnerability in leadership, and the understanding of neurodiversity. Angeliki shares her personal journey, discussing her experiences with neurodiversity and the significance of creating safe spaces in the workplace. The episode also highlights the role of storytelling in connecting with others and the need for empathy in leadership.TakeawaysAI and Copilot Studio enhance the...2024-12-2330 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityPush it to the limit - Guest: Josh GilesSend us a message!SummaryWe interview Josh Giles, a seasoned expert in the Power Platform. We discuss Josh's career journey, the Power Platform's different layers, and tips for transitioning from basic apps to complex enterprise-grade solutions. We also touch on overlooked areas in the Power Platform, such as Power Apps cards and custom connectors. Josh discusses the challenges and limitations of building apps with Power Platform. He talks about the need to learn pro code and the steep learning curve involved. Josh also shares his experience of building an innovative app that pushed...2024-12-1936 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversitySketch Zero - Guest: Rory NearySend us a message!SummaryIn this episode we're joined by Rory Neary, a freelance Power Platform Trainer and Consultant. Rory shares his journey from being an accountant to becoming a prominent figure in the Power Platform community. He discusses his early experiences with Power BI and Power Apps, his work with the Parliamentary Digital Service, and his role in creating learning content for Microsoft. We also touch on the importance of effective training, the growth of the Power Platform community, and Rory's passion for jazz music. He reflects on navigating uncomfortable situations in...2024-12-1237 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityHawaiian Shirt Conference - Guest: Dan RomanoSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, Mike Gowland and Jon Russell are joined by Dan Romano, an experienced private consultant. They discuss topics such as research and development (R&D), managing scope creep, dealing with pressure in the workplace, and embracing neurodiversity. The conversation also touches on the cultural differences between the US and the UK when it comes to embracing individuality and mental health. The hosts and guest also share their love for Hawaiian shirts and discuss the fashion choices that reflect their personalities.2024-12-0529 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityUnicorns! 🦄 - Guest: Rebekka Aalbers-de JongSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode, we interview Rebekka Aalbers, a Microsoft MVP and technology consultant. They discuss Rebekka's journey with the Power Platform, her love for unicorns, and her experiences in the industry. Rebekka shares a story about a project that failed and the lessons she learned from it. The conversation also touches on topics like imposter syndrome and the importance of speaking up when uncertain. The hosts wrap up the episode with their signature Uncomfortable Corner segment.TakeawaysRebekka Aalbers is a Microsoft...2024-11-2821 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityOn the Pei Roll! - Guest: Pei Mun LimSend us a message!SummaryPei Mun Lim, a mentor and coach in the consulting space, discusses the importance of active listening and the pitfalls consultants face when engaging with clients. She emphasizes the need to pause the urge to solutionize and instead focus on truly understanding the client's pain points. Pei also highlights the fear of failure in the consulting industry and how the use of AI tools can exacerbate this fear. She encourages consultants to learn from their mistakes and strive for wisdom in their work.Takeaways...2024-11-2136 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityCopilot Connection - Guest: Kevin McDonnellSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, Mike Gowland and Jon Russell interview Kevin McDonnell, a co-pilot strategy and modern workplace AI leader at Avanade. They discuss AI, Copilot functionalities, and the future of AI in the workplace. Kevin emphasizes the importance of having a strategy for integrating AI into business processes and highlights the need for responsible AI practices. They also explore the role of AI in employee experience and the challenges of building trust in AI systems. In this conversation, Kevin McDonnell discusses the importance of...2024-11-1432 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityProper Power Platform - Guest: Keith WhatlingSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, hosts Mike Gowland and Jon Russell welcome Keith Watling, a seasoned expert in the Power Platform. The conversation explores Keith's journey into technology, the evolution of the Power Platform, and the critical importance of alignment and understanding in tech projects. They discuss real-world examples of project failures due to miscommunication, the balance between customer needs and technical feasibility, and the future of technology with a focus on AI. Keith shares personal anecdotes and insights on leadership, communication, and the value...2024-11-0752 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityAI & Accessibility - Guest Ioana TanaseSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode of Sprint Zero, we interview Ioana Tanase, an expert in AI and accessibility. They discuss the potential of AI to create a more equitable world by addressing the unique needs of diverse users, including those with disabilities and mental health conditions. Ioana shares examples of how generative AI can assist individuals with disabilities, such as helping with writing and summarizing research papers. We also explore the use of AI in supporting mental health, including chatbots for low to medium severity anxiety and depression. The conversation highlights...2024-10-3141 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityMusic Man - Guest: Charles SextonSend us a message!SummaryCharles Sexton shares his journey from living in Uganda as a child to becoming a Power Platform expert. He discusses the impact of his experiences on his career and the role of creativity in his work. Charles also talks about the future of Power Platform and the importance of consulting skills in the industry. In the uncomfortable corner, he opens up about feeling uncomfortable in social situations and shares his experiences with public speaking.TakeawaysCharles' childhood experiences in Uganda and moving...2024-10-2426 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityWomen in Tech! - Guest: Areti IlesSend us a message!SummaryWe welcome Areti Iles, a prominent figure in the Microsoft community, to discuss her journey in tech, her advocacy for women in the industry, and her insights on AI adoption. Areti shares her experiences from user groups to major conferences, her role in the upcoming Scottish Summit conference, and the importance of community building and knowledge sharing. The conversation also delves into the challenges women face in tech, the significance of public speaking, and the need for diversity in technology. Areti emphasizes the importance of constructive feedback and personal...2024-10-1725 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityAccountability Buddies - Guests: Kayleigh Duddy & Lynsey WinchurchSend us a message!SummaryIn this double-whammy, 2 for 1 special. Kayleigh Duddy (ANS Group) and Lynsey Winchurch (Crimson) discuss their journey from end users to consultants and the importance of having an accountability partner. They share how their partnership has influenced their professional growth and personal well-being. They emphasize the value of community events in their transition and the validation they provide. They also touch on the stigma of dyslexia and the importance of speaking out about it. The conversation ends with a discussion on uncomfortable moments and the need to challenge well-being shaming...2024-10-1044 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityAmazing Apps! - Guest: Neil BensonSend us a message!NoticeWe’re aware of some unfortunate audio issues in this episode of Sprint Zero. We’ve done our best to bring the audio out as much as possible. SummaryIn this episode, we sit down with Neil Benson, an influential figure in the Dynamics and Power Platform communities, whose unique journey from IT contract recruiter to becoming a certified Scrum master and founder of Superware, underscores the transformative power of agile methodologies in today’s fast-paced tech landscape. Neil delves into the twists and turns o...2024-10-0329 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityThe Business Analyst - Guest: Dani KahilSend us a message!SummaryIn this enlightening episode, we sit down with Dani Kahil, a seasoned Microsoft MVP with over 15 years of expertise in the Dynamics CRM and Power Platform arenas. Delving into his remarkable journey in the tech world, Dani sheds light on the pivotal moments that carved his path towards a specialized focus on Dynamics CRM. This conversation not only uncovers the intricacies of project implementations but also emphasizes the often-underestimated facets of user adoption, training, and the indispensable role of business analysts in ensuring project success.Takeaways2024-09-2644 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityTalent Portal - Guest: Sandra KoutzenkoSend us a message!SummaryIn this conversation, Sandra Koutzenko, the head of the Microsoft Learning Partner Practice at 365 Talent Portal, shares her journey in the tech industry and discusses effective hiring and upskilling strategies in the Microsoft space. She emphasizes the importance of staying ahead of the rapidly changing technology landscape and highlights the need for ongoing training and agility. Sandra also talks about the role of soft skills in the tech industry and the challenges of user training and adoption. Additionally, she shares her experiences as a mentor and provides advice for...2024-09-1951 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityZero. Trust. - Guest: Jon JarvisSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode, Jon Jarvis, a Microsoft MVP and certified Microsoft trainer, discusses his journey in the IT industry and the importance of data security in the world of AI. He also talks about the Experts Live UK user group and the various themes they cover in their conferences. The conversation touches on topics such as the evolution of cloud computing, the normalization of cloud security, and the need for organizations to prioritize data security. In this conversation, Jon Jarvis discusses his experience as a Microsoft certified trainer and...2024-09-1236 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityYou're a Wizard, Cat! - Guest: Cat SchneiderSend us a message!SummaryCat Schneider discuss her journey into the tech industry and her experience with the Power Platform. We also touch on topics such as roundabouts, self-taught coding, and the importance of Google searching skills. Cat shares her insights on learning different programming languages and tools through online resources and her experience in building data-driven solutions for various organizations. Cat Schneider discusses her journey in the power platform and her experience with ADHD. She shares how her job roles shifted and how she ended up working with a team of power...2024-09-0541 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityAI Hype - Guest: Gary RaifeSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode, Mike and Jon are joined by Gary Rafe, a modern workplace solutions architect at Avanade. They discuss the challenges of implementing IT in the healthcare sector, particularly in the NHS. Gary highlights the issues of capacity and cost, as well as the disconnect between the top level and the trust level in terms of IT adoption. They also touch on the overuse and hype surrounding AI and the need for more specific use cases. Gary emphasizes the importance of keeping up to date with various technology...2024-08-2935 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityDon't mess with Fireworks - Guest: Emma LintonSend us a message!YOU SHOULD ALWAYS FOLLOW SAFE PRACTICES WHEN LIGHTING FIREWORKSDon't be a Jon.Staying safe with fireworks - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)SummaryIn this conversation, Mike, Jon, and Emma discuss various topics related to their personal experiences and the Power Platform. They share funny stories, talk about their journey into the field, and discuss the essential skills for aspiring Solution Architects. Emma emphasizes problem-solving, project methodology understanding, and strong communication skills as key attributes for success. They also touch on the importance of...2024-08-2236 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityViva la Microsoft 365 - Guest: James CulleySend us a message!SummaryJames Culley, a Microsoft 365 consultant, shares his journey from teaching to becoming a consultant. He discusses the pressures of teaching and his decision to change careers. The podcast explores Viva Suite, a set of tools within Microsoft Teams aimed at enhancing employee experience. These tools include Viva Engage for collaboration, Viva Connections for extending SharePoint into Teams, and Viva Insights for performance tracking. Additionally, the conversation touches on integrating AI tools like Copilot into Viva for coding assistance, emphasizing transparency and communication for better AI adoption. James also talks about overcoming imposter...2024-08-1531 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityMONDAY SPECIAL #2Send us a message!In this episode, we discuss learning content, session delivery and conference experiences, but something's off...Special Thanks to:Sean Astrakhan - Cohost - Untethered365 Franco Musso - CohostAnd all our previous guests who have made Sprint-Zero:Testimonial Roll Call:Keith AthertonJames ConnellyChris HuntingfordEmma Claire-ShawNathan RoseDavid WyattNati TurtledoveAmy HemingwayHeather PerriamParvez GhumraSarah JonesMark SmithDamien BirdGriffin LickfeldtThanks to:KenLikeFit for providing music for this episode - [Find out more about him and listen to his...2024-08-121h 17
Lil StinkersBeebo Russell: Sky KingCome see us live on the road: https://bit.ly/48ROD3N Aug. 21: Dallas Aug. 22: Austin Oct. 22: San Francisco Oct. 23: Sacramento If you like Lil Stinkers and want to support us, you can do so by going to Patreon.com/lilstinkers. For either $4/month or $40/year, you get every episode early, ad-free episodes Patreon exclusive episodes, Mini Stinkers episodes, live AMAs, live episodes, road trip vlogs, live book club meetings and all the other weirdo nonsense that we engage in. Also, once we hit 3500 Patrons, we are h...2024-08-091h 18
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityIt's F*&^ing HOT | a fan gathering - Guest: Heather PerriamSend us a message!SummaryHeather Perriam, a Power Platform Solution Architect, shares her journey of career change and embracing her late-diagnosed ADHD. Despite challenges faced as a woman in the tech industry, she emphasizes the importance of allies and authenticity. Heather highlights ADHD strengths like problem-solving skills and thriving under pressure. She encourages seeking support and accommodations in the workplace. Her experience launching an accessibility blog and overcoming self-doubt is inspiring. The conversation also includes lighthearted moments about presenting and podcasting with a mischievous cat.TakeawaysChanging careers...2024-08-0852 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityA Tangent - Guest: Ania BlackSend us a message!SummaryAnia Black joins the conversation to discuss content creation, blogging, and the Power Platform. She shares her approach to writing blogs, handling feedback, and dealing with uncomfortable comments on LinkedIn. They also discuss an upcoming initiative for Power Platform UI/UX.TakeawaysUser experience is crucial for the success and adoption of software applications.Creating engaging LinkedIn content can help build a professional brand.Ania announces the launch of a new super user group. Creating content requires finding a balance between planning...2024-08-0136 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityEmpathy is Key - Guest: Tricia SinclairSend us a message!SummaryWe're joined by Tricia Sinclair, the Dynamics 365 customer services lead at Avanade. Tricia discusses her background, the importance of community, and the creation of the Power Platform School. We also talk about the future of Power Virtual Agents and the upcoming release of Copilot Studio. She also reveals some uncomfortable moments!TakeawaysEmpathy and inclusivity are crucial in the tech industry.Underrepresented groups face unique challenges and need support to enter the tech industry.The Power Platform School aims to increase black representation in the Microsoft partner ecosystem...2024-07-2532 min
Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & NeurodiversityAI Rollercoaster - Guest: Nick DoelmanSend us a message!SummaryIn this episode, Jon and Mike interview Nick Doelman, a Power Platform Specialist and powerlifting enthusiast. Nick shares his background in IT and how he got involved in the Power Platform. He discusses his love for Power Pages (formerly Portals) and the importance of self-care and recognizing burnout. Nick also talks about his experience in powerlifting and representing his country in international competitions.TakeawaysPower Pages (formerly Portals) is Nick Doelman's favorite part of the Power Platform, but he also enjoys working with other...2024-07-1839 min