Shows
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 36: Leadership without the Title with Dr Robert WinterWhat do you do when the strategy slides are polished, the goals are lofty, and yet… nothing moves? In this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan sits down with Robert Winter—thinker, writer, leadership philosopher—to unpack why good people get stuck in toxic environments, how complexity messes with traditional management, and why real leadership feels more like gardening than goal-setting. Whether you're a team lead, a CEO, or just the person quietly holding the business together, this one's for you. Segmented Discussion Points: 1. Leadership Without the Title What is “discretionary...2025-05-151h 29
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEP 35: Alistair Burton on What We’re Still Getting Wrong in Tech (And How to Fix It)Chris McGowan sits down with technology and business leader Alistair Burton. From the realities of justifying IT costs to the uncomfortable truth about our industry’s talent pipeline, this episode is a charged-up unpacking of what tech leaders are really wrestling with in 2025. Discussion Points: 1. The Power of Showing Up What happens when you ask better questions and truly listen The underrated career value of curiosity and connection Alistair’s own reflections on what his podcast taught him about leadership and growth 2. The Top 5 Things on Tech Leaders’ M...2025-05-071h 29
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 34: Ali McKee on Growth, Grit, and Getting Back InIn this refreshingly real episode of ThunderCast, General Manager of ThunderLabs, Ali McKee, joins host Chris McGowan for a deep conversation on career transitions, motherhood, and leadership. Ali shares how she made the leap from print to tech, the power of pushing past self-doubt, and what it really takes to show up — at work, at home, and in life. Whether you're re-entering the workforce, navigating growth as a parent, or just feeling a bit stuck in your career, this one’s for you. Episode Breakdown1. From Safe to Stretch: The Career Leap Why Ali...2025-04-2542 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 33: Start Small, Delight Big, Stay Human - Coffee Chat with Abdullah RamayIn this special morning edition of ThunderCast, Chris sits down with Abdullah Ramay, CEO of Pablo & Rusty’s Coffee Roasters, to grind through the big questions in leadership, business, AI, and, of course coffee. Abdullah’s obsession with craft, culture, and continuous learning turns this casual chat into a masterclass on building resilient, human-centric businesses in an era of rapid change. 1. Coffee Economics 101 (Without Putting You to Sleep) - Why global coffee prices have skyrocketed and why your $5 flat white might still be too cheap. - The difference between commodity and spe...2025-03-271h 15
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 32: Endurance, Entrepreneurship & Ethics - A Conversation with Hugh LeIn this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan sits down with Hugh Le, founder of Juxtabyte and former data lead at CBA, to talk about the unseen costs of building something new, the cultural layers of stoicism, and the inevitable collision of AI, governance, and ethics. They dig into the modern workplace, the shift in workforce dynamics, and whether suffering is just a part of the human condition or something we’re learning to opt out of. This is a conversation for anyone navigating change, whether in tech, leadership, or life itself. Episode breakdown 1. From...2025-03-131h 16
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 31: Building High-Impact Digital Teams and Experiences with Mark DrasutisChris McGowan sits down with Mark Drasutis, a digital leader with 25+ years of experience spanning media, product development, and digital transformations. They explore how businesses have evolved alongside digital, the importance of simplifying customer experiences, and how to drive product value in today’s tech-savvy market.
Discussion Points
The Digital Thread through Mark’s Career
The steel thread of Mark's career: Simplified customer experiences and effective team building.
How early career experiences in media and AOL shaped his approach to product strategy.
Why digital isn't just a "thing"...2024-10-021h 25
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 30: Fast Delivery Meets Long-Term Value with Kim Spithill and Shane MercerChris McGowan dives deep into a wide-ranging conversation with Kim Spithill, Head of Delivery, and Shane Mercer, Head of Emerging Technology. Grab your virtual notepads because the trio covers everything from the elusive nature of innovation to the complexities of AI in tech delivery.
Whether you're here to geek out over technical architecture or hear how AI could change the very fabric of our future, this episode packs a charged-up punch of insights and a healthy dose of philosophical pondering.
Discussion Points:
Fast Delivery vs Long-Term Value:
How do fa...2024-09-261h 29
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 29: Samuel Redmond on Solving the Future with Agile and AIChris McGowan chats with Samuel Redmond, Director of the Adapt Group, about the conundrum many businesses face — how to innovate effectively while navigating the hype of AI. Sam unpacks the innovation dilemma and how AI, specifically Gen AI, can help overcome business challenges, streamline strategy, and drive value.
Discussion Points
The Innovation Dilemma
Why do organisations struggle with a blank slate when tackling innovation?
How bringing external perspectives and identifying the right problems to solve is crucial.
The AI Dilemma: Hype vs Reality
The pressure CEOs face from boards to implement AI across t...2024-09-121h 07
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 28: Ageism in the Tech Industry with Elsa PahnkeChris McGowan sits down with Elsa Pahnke, a Learning and Development Consultant with a wealth of experience and insights on the value of mature workers in today’s fast-paced tech industry.
They dive deep into the biases that plague hiring practices, explore the untapped potential of seasoned professionals, and discuss how the industry can pivot towards inclusivity and innovation.
Music and Career
How Elsa’s band, Storm Cellar, has evolved over 15 years.
The parallels between music and career evolution in the tech industry.
The importance of creativity and innovation across all walks of...2024-08-261h 16
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 27: The Innovation Dilemma in Australia with Anthony Perera and Mal WanstallWelcome to another electrifying episode of ThunderCast. Chris McGowan sits down with tech visionaries Anthony Perera (CDAO at La Trobe University) and Mal Wanstall (VP Data & AI at Cochlear) to talk about one of the most puzzling questions: Why does Australia lag in innovation?
They also explore the impact of cultural and political factors and the role of data and AI in driving future growth.
This episode is a must-listen for tech leaders and innovators looking to understand the unique challenges and opportunities in Australia's tech ecosystem.
Listen to learn more about:
1. T...2024-07-231h 19
scalr sagecastscalr sagecast - #4 - Chris McGowanSend us a textWelcome to the scalr sagecast - bite-sized wisdom for ambitious business minds.Every week, we bring you inspiring stories and hard-won wisdom from a different business leader, so get ready to learn, grow and scale your success!Joining me this week is Chris McGowan, founder of ThunderLabs. Having spent north of 20 years in agency recruitment and TA (talent acquisition), Chris began his entrepreneurial journey nearly 10 years ago. He's enjoyed success in recruitment, health tech and now ThunderLabs, a consultancy focused on full-stack engineering, identity and talent acquisition. 2024-06-0427 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 26: From Legacy to Leading-Edge - Insights from Greg MagillIn this episode of ThunderCast host Chris McGowan sits down with Greg Magill, the former Head of Digital Development and Digital Delivery at Westpac. Greg brings 18.5 years of experience from one of Australia’s oldest and largest banks to discuss the intricate dance between digital innovation and traditional business models.
They explore:
1. Innovation Roadblocks in Legacy Systems
Why do businesses struggle with integrating innovative digital assets?
The complexity of working with decades-old systems.
Strategies for minimal integration to prove the concept.
2. Simplifying the Digital Transformation
The pitfalls of simply digitising old processes.
The import...2024-05-161h 04
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 25: Stan Belikoff on the Power of Integrated Tech TeamsChris McGowan and guest Stan Belikoff dive into the benefits of bringing together delivery and development teams.
They explore how this integration can speed up processes, improve project quality, and the role of security in it all.
It’s a conversation packed with insights on making teams work better together for more effective tech projects.
Some of the topics they explored:
The transformative power of integrating delivery and development teams.
The critical role of aligning engineering and architecture for project success.
The non-negotiable need to emb...2024-03-1438 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 24: Hugs, Happiness, and Gru — Cracking Open Life's Mysteries with Frankie & Mac McGowanForget boring resolutions! This episode of ThunderCast is a hilarious and heartwarming ride with Chris McGowan and his special guests, Frankie and Mac McGowan (his kids!). Join them as they crack open fortune cookies and dish out unexpected wisdom for 2024. From the importance of quality hugs to the art of admiring without desiring, Frankie and Mac's insights are as sharp as their wit. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even shed a tear as they remind you that the best things in life are often the simplest. So ditch the self-help gurus and grab a fortune cookie — ThunderCast's go...2024-01-3007 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 23: Rowena Millward on Cracking the Code of Uncomfortable GrowthGet ready to dive into a conversation with Rowena Millward, author of "Uncomfortable Growth: Own Your Reinvention."
Chris McGowan chats with Rowena about her journey, from simplifying complex concepts for busy minds to navigating the ups and downs of leadership. Along the way, they explore the importance of vulnerability, the power of community, and the art of shifting from a life of constant striving to one of effortless ease.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to unlock their hidden potential, embrace the unexpected twists and turns of life, and discover their true ca...2023-12-111h 03
Life Lessons#23 - Chris McGowan - ThunderLabs Co-founder - Delivering digital differently.Chris McGowan is a business founder and creator with a desire to do things differently. Partnering with an A Team of tech innovators, he is focussed on providing heroic tech outcomes for visionary leaders.
He is also a podcaster, launching his ThunderCast the same week as this podcast. Seemed like a great reason to talk tech, podcasting and content creation!
Join me as I learn why podcasting, and what it takes to build a tech startup.
To get in contact with Chris:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-mcgowan-55a2301/
...2023-10-251h 16
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 22: Mark McPherson on Relics, Royals, and RevelationsJoin Chris McGowan and Mark McPherson as they unravel the artistry of historical storytelling and the gritty journey from idea inception to holding the published work in hand. Mark sheds light on the emotional toll, the necessity of brutal feedback, and the emotional investment required to birth a historical fiction masterpiece.
Discover how Mark's devotion to authenticity led him to tread the lands his characters roamed in the ancient world. It's a narrative of perseverance, the pursuit of authenticity, and the undeniable love for the old world that crafts a historical fiction author. 2023-10-1057 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 21: Martin Kearns on OKRs and Consequential GovernanceChris McGowan sits down with organisational strategy expert Martin Kearns once again to talk about the intricacies of OKRs, the challenges leaders face in aligning their teams, and driving results. From the pitfalls of emotional decision-making to the nuances of inside-out vs. outside-in approaches, this episode is a masterclass in leadership and strategy. Tune in to discover how to navigate the choppy waters of Q2 and beyond. 2023-09-2953 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 20: Chris Fisher on Outsmarting Cyber AttackersJoin Chris McGowan and the Director of Security Engineering at Vectra.ai Chris Fisher for an eye-opening episode of ThunderCast, where they delve deep into the world of cyber security.
This episode focuses on Purple Teaming, a hands-on approach that simulates malicious attacks and penetration testing to fortify cyber defenses.
Chris sheds light on how Vectra AI is revolutionising the way organisations identify and counter threats. 2023-09-2018 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 19: Chris McGowan and Adam Long on Negotiating Like Your Life Depends on ItIn today's episode, Chris McGowan and Adam Long dissect the potent techniques of one of the FBI’s greatest negotiators, Chris Voss. From calibrated questions to data-driven decisions to tactical empathy, learn how to negotiate like your life depends on it — even if you’re just haggling over a contract.
Whether you're a vendor, a client, or someone trying to navigate executive-level conversations, this episode provides invaluable insights into the methods that can help you succeed. 2023-09-1532 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 18: Chris McGowan and Adam Long on Negotiating the UnknownIn this engaging episode of ThunderCast, co-founders Chris McGowan and Adam Long take you behind the scenes of their recent Book Club session with the ThunderLabs team. The book in focus? "Never Split the Difference" by former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss.
Together they explore the insights and wisdom distilled in the book, reflecting on the principles of tactical empathy and the nuances of intelligent negotiation. Drawing from their experience in the tech world and their passion for transforming lives, they dive into the relevance of these concepts in daily decision-making and business leadership. 2023-08-1423 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 17: Amr Abdoun on the Art of Navigating ChangeChris McGowan sits down with Amr Abdoun, an expert in change management and one of ThunderLabs’ network amplifiers.
With a diverse background ranging from software engineering to CTO roles, Amr brings a unique perspective to the table.
They discuss the importance of showing competence through action, the power of quick results, and the art of bridging the gap between business needs and technology.
Amr also emphasises the significance of recognising and nurturing talent within a team and how it leads to a stronger and more successful organisation. 2023-08-0645 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 16: Lightning in a Bottle - Celebrating ThunderLabs' Second Anniversary with Adam Long and Chris McGowanIn this special episode, we're getting real about the rollercoaster ride that got us here. No corporate talk, just honest reflections on the past two years. From the thrilling victories to the downright terrifying moments, we're sharing it all with you.
Join the party as we toast to another year of growth. 2023-08-0122 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 15: Mark Belfanti, Mike Gamble, and Tony Jenner on Balancing Security and User ExperienceCybersecurity and identity management experts Mike Gamble, Mark Belfanti, and Tony Jenner sit down with Chris McGowan and delve into the critical aspects of securing identities and protecting against cyber threats.
They discuss common vulnerabilities such as phishing, the need for multi-factor authentication, and the challenges faced by companies with legacy systems. The conversation explores the balance between security and innovation, emphasising the importance of a clear roadmap to implement effective security measures.
Join the conversation to gain a deeper understanding of the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the strategies needed to protect identities in an int...2023-07-261h 00
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 14: David Clark on Prioritising Customer Empowerment through AIChris McGowan shines the spotlight on David Clark, Head of Software Engineering at Kitfit and one of ThunderLabs' brilliant network amplifiers.
They dive into the world of customer success, software engineering, and the joys of tinkering with hardware.
They also explore the fascinating realm of customer success platforms powered by AI and natural language processing. 2023-07-2042 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 13: Mikkel Bergmann on Revolutionising Customer Success with AIChris McGowan sits down with Mikkel Bergmann, a deep tech professional and one of ThunderLabs' network amplifiers. Mikkel shares his experiences as a developer and the challenges of balancing a product company with providing services. They delve into Mikkel's latest venture, a customer success platform integrated with AI, and discuss the vision behind it. 2023-07-1830 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 12: Gus Jansen and Chris McGowan on the Human Condition & Emotional IntelligenceIn this episode of ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in Tech, Chris McGowan engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Gus Jansen. They dive deep into the realms of stereotypes, preconceptions, and the way we learn, exploring how these factors impact personal growth and success.
Join them as they unravel the intricate connection between behavior, human condition, and the scientific method, shedding light on the fascinating world of psychology and its relevance in today's tech-driven landscape. They also delve into leadership, the idea of agreeableness and its impact on personal and professional relationships.
Throughout the episode, th...2023-07-1255 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 11: Mike Knapp and Adam Long on Practical Applications of AI for CorporatesIs AI large language models (LLMs) at peak hype? Or is it ready for corporate applications? What can we learn from the founder of Shoes of Prey about its phenomenal rise and fall? And why would someone quit Google twice to do a startup?
Find out this and more as Mike Knapp joins Adam Long in the ThunderCast studio. 2023-07-1033 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 10: April George on the Power of IdentityChris McGowan engages in a dynamic conversation with cybersecurity expert April George on the topic of identity access management (IAM) and its pivotal role in the future of digital transformation.
They explore IAM affects personalized experiences and took a sneak peek into the future of access technology. From biometrics to password alternatives and the challenges faced by less technically literate individuals, discover the importance of inclusive design, the role of identity solutions in business, and the benefits of partnering with specialised providers.
Hear April share her insights on successful transformation projects that prioritise people over te...2023-07-041h 15
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 9: Martin Kearns on Navigating Agile: Challenges & Insights for Corporate AustraliaIn this episode, Chris McGowan engages in a deep conversation with agile expert Martin Kearns about their experiences with the world of agile and its implications in corporate Australia. They discuss the challenges faced by organizations in adopting agile methodologies, the need for constant assessment and adaptation, and the misconceptions surrounding agile practices.
They also explore the shifts they've made in their approach over the years, embracing vulnerability, and finding value in authenticity. Join them as they share valuable insights and discuss the importance of self-reflection and adaptation in a rapidly changing world.2023-06-301h 08
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 8: Frank Cuiuli on HolacracyIn this episode, we dive deep into the world of holocracy and its impact on organisational structure and decision-making processes. Our guest, Frank Cuiuli of 8Squad, shares his experiences and challenges of adopting a new way of thinking and breaking away from traditional operating methods. 2023-06-2759 minThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 7: Dr R Sambasivam on Unleashing AI's PotentialIn this episode, Chris McGowan talks to Dr Samba about
Data-cenric and human-centric AI
AI’s impact on decision-making
The concept of "Homo Deus" by Yuval Noah Harari
The concept of free will and its relationship with AI's capacity for imagination
Humans’ curiosity and creativity that make us vital contributors to AI's development and improvement
Efficiency and effectiveness in AI models
2023-06-1658 minThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 3: Claes Manssen on Achieving Funding for Service Transformation ProjectsWelcome to the latest episode of ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in Tech, where we explore the latest trends and innovations in the tech industry. In this episode, Chris McGowan and Andrew Walker are joined by Claes Manssen, CIO of University of Sydney. They explore:
- Project funding
- Purpose
- How the Agile Manifesto is more of a philosophy than a methodology
- Agile is not a better approach to tracking project success
- Skipping the scope document
- The role of governance2023-06-151h 17ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 6: Fan Zhang on the Biggest Opportunities for Data LeadersIn this episode, Fan Zhang, a brilliant data expert, shares invaluable insights on the power of data in today's business landscape. We explore why it's crucial for organisations to recognise the urgency to invest in data capabilities, the opportunities for data leaders, the potential for AI to revolutionise the hiring process, and so many more. 2023-06-0741 minThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 5: Stan Belikoff on Leadership & MomentumIn today's episode, Chris chats with Stan Belikoff, the Vice President of Continuous Delivery at Cochlear. Tune in to know the 3 key factors for leaders, the significance of building momentum, the importance of building a psychologically safe environment at work, and the evolving role of business analysts, and so many more.2023-05-2453 minThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 4: Dan Canham on Strategy and InnovationIn this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan is joined by Dan Canham of Tomorrow Strategy Co. They explore the fascinating realm of entrepreneurialism, venturing, and funding. Our guest, Dan, shares his personal experience as a founder, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared wealth in creating successful businesses. They also discuss the power of spotting game-changing innovations and clever commercial models.2023-05-2354 minThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 2: Andrew Walker on Purpose and AutonomyIn today's episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan and Andrew Walker explore purpose and autonomy in teams that deliver digital solutions.
Visit www.thunderlabs.com.au/blog for more charged-up insights on tech and digital solutions.2023-04-1357 min
ThunderCast: Charged-Up Insights for People in TechEp 1: Andrew Walker on the Spartan MethodologyChris McGowan speaks with Andrew Walker, CTO at ThunderLabs, about the governance model that lets enterprises deliver tech at speed (and scale). It's the process behind 300+ rapid digital builds at Monash University, Google, iag, Ausgrid, minda, Victoria State Government, and many more.2023-03-2759 min