Swimming With Sharks: Enterprise AI Unleashed

From college dorm room to designing next-level interfaces for Google and AAA, Dave Bento has seen every tech transition. Join Kevin Dean for a wide-ranging conversation on the "moment of inflection" we are currently living through with Generative AI. Want to know more about AI Agents? Connect with ManoByte: https://www.manobyte.com/ ABOUT OUR GUEST: DAVE BENTO Dave started Metajive at his kitchen table after quitting a college Jamba Juice job. He has led the studio through every major tech crisis. Under his leadership, Metajive has scaled to support giants like T-Mobile and Google, winning when it mattered most. Dave’s philosophy is built on survival, sustainable growth, and extreme ownership. His mission: Create great experiences for teams, clients, and every user they touch. Connect with Dave: https://www.linkedin.com/in/metajive/ ABOUT OUR HOST: KEVIN J. DEAN Kevin J. Dean is the founder and CEO of ManoByte. With 20 years of experience helping organizations unlock customer satisfaction through technology, Kevin is a lifelong tech innovator and a former Fortune 500 leader. He equips growth-focused businesses with bold, actionable strategies to stay ahead of disruption. Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kjdean/ Join Kevin’s AI Ambitions Workshop to turn your ideas into measurable results: https://www.manobyte.com/ai-ambitions-workshop Video Summary: 0:00 - Intro to Dave Bento & MetaJive 3:11 - What’s the same and what’s different in tech right now? 7:45 - The world's biggest database: Building on public data. 10:55 - The Apple AI Prediction & Private Context. 17:30 - Supercharging your workforce. 25:45 - Handling AI hallucinations & LLM Throttling. 33:00 - Music Recommendations (Zombies vs. Renee Rapp). #AI #AppliedAI #BusinessGrowth #AppleIntelligence #MetaJive #ManoByte #KevinDean #DaveBento #DigitalTransformation #FutureOfWork #GenerativeAI #SwimmingWithSharks

In this compelling episode, host Kevin Dean sits down with Larry Walsh, the CEO and Chief Analyst at Channelnomics, to navigate the complex waters of exponential change. With over 15 years of experience advising top organizations, Larry cuts through the hype to reveal the strategic and often uncomfortable truths behind today's biggest tech trends. This conversation goes far beyond buzzwords, exploring: The Great Convergence:The AI Hype Cycle:The Original Sin of Business:The Myth of the Silver Bullet:Parallel Visions:This is an essential conversation for any business leader, entrepreneur, or channel professional seeking clarity and strategic guidance in a world of unprecedented disruption.

Dive deep into the complex world of AI adoption with host Kevin Dean and special guest Kodjo Hogan, a cybersecurity leader and Director of Information Security GRC for Chainalysis Inc. This episode explores the crucial, often-overlooked intersection of Artificial Intelligence, robust security, and human psychology. You want to talk AI strategy for your company? Contact us at: https://www.manobyte.com/contact-us Get in touch with Kevin at: https://kevinjdean.com/ Get in touch with guest, Kodjo Hogan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kodjohogan/ In this insightful conversation, Kodjo cuts through the hype to address the serious concerns around AI risk, governance, and data integrity. You'll learn: What true AI governance meansspecific, auditable AI use cases"AI psychosis"model poisoningdata hallucinationblockchainsecurity-first cultureIf you're a leader grappling with how to make smart, secure, and strategic decisions about AI in your organization, this episode provides the clarity and practical insights you need to move forward with confidence.

Get ready to dive deep into the real investments driving the Artificial Intelligence revolution! In this insightful conversation, Kevin J. Dean sits down with Adam Patti, CEO of VistaShares, to explore the critical infrastructure and often-overlooked components that are truly profiting from the massive growth in AI. Connect with Adam Patti & VistaShares: Website: vistashares.com LinkedIn: / adam-patti-96919 Connect with Kevin J. Dean: Website: https://kevinjdean.com/ LinkedIn: / kjdean Adam, a veteran of the ETF industry and former president of Tesla (early on), shares the fascinating story behind VistaShares' flagship AI Infrastructure Fund ($AIS). Discover why their "picks and shovels" approach to AI investment focuses on the companies building the foundational data centers and semiconductors, rather than just the "Mag 7" tech giants. #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #Investing #ETFs #Infrastructure #DataCenters #Semiconductors #Energy #Electrification #FutureOfWork #BusinessStrategy #VistaShares #AdamPatti #Podcast #TechInvestment #Innovation #SuperCycle #Finance

In this episode of Swimming with Sharks, host Kevin J. Dean speaks with Brian J. Esposito — entrepreneur, investor, and founder of Esposito Intellectual Enterprises — about the real and lasting impact of AI on business, jobs, and society. Brian shares candid insights on the responsibilities companies and investors have when adopting AI technologies, and why many are overlooking the long-term consequences for workers, communities, and the economy. With decades of experience working across sectors, Brian offers a unique perspective on balancing innovation with ethics and impact. Topics Covered: The reality vs. the hype around AI How businesses should approach the future of work Risks of overlooking AI’s societal impact Why empathy and long-term thinking matter now more than ever Subscribe to Swimming with Sharks for more expert conversations on AI, enterprise strategy, and leadership in a transforming world. #FutureOfWork #AIImpact #BrianEsposito #EnterpriseAI #BusinessLeadership #AIandSociety #SwimmingWithSharksPodcast #KevinJDean

In this episode of Swimming with Sharks, Kevin Dean sits down with David Pearlman, Senior Director of Education at Adobe, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping enterprise operations, leadership, and the way we learn. Drawing on decades of experience at Microsoft and Adobe, David shares how AI is helping reduce noise in the workplace, accelerating asynchronous education, and redefining the role of leadership. From improving email efficiency to navigating shadow AI and compliance, this conversation cuts through the hype and gets to the heart of what meaningful AI adoption looks like. What you'll learn: This is a practical, insightful conversation for business leaders, educators, and enterprise professionals preparing for what’s next. Connect with the Guest: David Pearlman on LinkedIn – linkedin.com/in/davidmpearlman Hosted by Kevin Dean Founder, ManoByte – linkedin.com/in/kevinddean

In this episode, Kevin Dean sits down with Anthony Coppedge to discuss the rapid changes in technology, leadership, and business strategy. With the rise of Generative AI (GenAI), businesses are facing a transformation as significant as the advent of the internet and mobile technology. But how should organizations adapt, align, and think differently to stay ahead? 🔹 Key Topics Covered: ✅ The rate of change vs. individual technological shifts ✅ Why GenAI is a force multiplier – but not a silver bullet ✅ The importance of alignment and clarity in leadership ✅ How to move beyond vanity metrics to focus on real value ✅ Why organizational culture and empathy are crucial in the AI era ✅ The role of agentic AI in the future workforce 🔥 "More of the wrong thing faster is NOT winning!" – Anthony Coppedge 💡 If you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or innovator looking to navigate the future of AI and business transformation, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss! 🎵 Bonus: Anthony shares a personal music recommendation from his jazz-legend grandfather, Burgess Surges – check it out!

In this episode of Swimming with Sharks, Kevin Dean, CEO of ManoByte, is joined by Rob Ryan, Head of Thought Leadership at WorkGrid Software, for an in-depth discussion on the role of conversational AI in streamlining employee workflows and improving internal communication. Rob shares his insights on organizational change, the evolution of employee experience platforms, and the importance of aligning AI projects with business goals. Introduction: Kevin introduces Rob Ryan, who has extensive experience in organizational strategy and technology deployment. Rob provides background on WorkGrid Software and its mission to reduce digital friction in the workplace. Interview Highlights: Conversational AI as a Digital Assistant:Getting Started with AI Projects:Transforming Employee Experience with AI:Key Takeaways: Building an AI Strategy:Importance of Governance:Prioritizing Employee Experience:

In this insightful episode of Swimming with Sharks, Kevin Dean, CEO of ManoByte, sits down with Amelia Jones, Principal Customer Success Manager at Mural, to discuss the role of AI in enterprise environments and how visual collaboration can enhance business processes. Amelia shares her experiences from Mural, highlighting the impact of human-centered design and agile methodologies in fostering better decision-making and collaboration. Introduction: Kevin introduces Amelia, who brings nearly a decade of experience in customer success and a passion for human-centered design. They dive into Mural’s visual collaboration platform and how it reshapes traditional workflows. Interview Highlights: Visual Collaboration for Better Decision-Making:AI in the Enterprise:Human-Centered Design & Agile in AI Projects:Key Takeaways: AI as a Collaborative Tool:Documenting AI Processes:Balancing AI Excitement with Practicality:

In this exciting episode of Swimming with Sharks, Kevin Dean, CEO of ManoByte, welcomes Mike Lyons, founder of KaiRise, to explore the intersection of Agile methodologies and generative AI. Mike shares his unique journey through the IT landscape, from small firms to large consulting agencies, shedding light on how AI is shaping business processes and the power of agility in driving innovation. Introduction: Kevin introduces Mike Lyons, who has decades of experience in IT, ranging from higher education to government, finance, and non-profits. They dive into Mike’s deep insights on Agile ways of working and how organizations can capitalize on AI technology for better decision-making and enhanced efficiency. Interview Highlights: Agile in the AI Era:Learning Through Failure:Experimentation and Innovation:Key Takeaways: Embrace Agile:Security vs. Innovation:Future of AI:

In this episode of Building Products Ecosystem Unboxed, we talk with Kevin Dean, CEO, and President of ManoByte, about how HubSpot can help you create a connected experience for your customer and your customer's customer through effective channel management. Topics Discussed: What does the "Ecosystem" in "Building Products Ecosystem" mean? What makes Hubspot work for building products manufacturers? The current state of marketing for building products manufacturers Exciting HubSpot...

In this episode of Building Products Ecosystem Unboxed, we talk with Janis Hubina of Warmup North America about TikTok and YouTube strategies for Building Product Brands. She shares her secrets for success in navigating her journey using TikTok and YouTube in the Building Products space. View the entire episode here on YouTube.

In this episode, we are joined by Mark Allen Roberts from OTB Solutions. Mark is the CEO of OTB Solutions and an expert in Sales Effectiveness Improvement. He has served sales teams for over 36 years. He speaks to us about the new way of selling Building Products in 2022, how to evaluate your sales teams, set them up for success, and more.

The 2022 International Builders' Show did not disappoint! If we didn't get to see you there, we'll catch you in Vegas next year. Until then, Kevin, Jillian, Danielle, and Will compiled our top 13 takeaways from this year's event. 1. Digital selling is not going away. 2. Trade shows are going to start supplementing digital selling rather than be the primary source of interactions. 3. The role of distributors is changing. 4. Customer loyalty, especially builder and contractor brand...

In this episode, Erica Thompson of Rio Grande Co., shares her unique perspective as an architectural products sales rep regarding what she looks for from manufacturers. Episode Highlights: Supply Chain DisruptionsManufacturer's Customer / Partner PortalsDay-to-Day Work of ArchitectsWatch the full episode here: https://www.manobyte.com/growth-strategy/architectural-sales

In this episode, Susan Milne, founder, and CEO of Epiphany Studios shares her advice for creating an authentic, consistent, and transparent building products brand. Episode Highlights:

In this episode, Brian Beck, Managing Partner at Enceiba and author of "Billion Dollar B2B Ecommerce" digs into the 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Launching eCommerce for Building Products and shares the 6 Most Impactful Features Customers Want. Episode Highlights: More on the episode here.

Chris Camfferman, Managing Director of Marketing at UFP Industries walks us through their successful implementation of the HubSpot CRM. Chris will speak about how UFP handled change management, what UFP was using before moving to the HubSpot CRM, and the lessons learned during this digital transformation. Episode Highlights: How long did it takeHubSpot's sales playbooks

Building Materials Sales & Marketing Consultant, Mark Mitchell of Whizard Strategies Joins Us Again. This Time, Mark Shares His Perspective on How Pull-Through Sales Actually Works in Building Materials and What Actually Matters to Your Channel Partners. Highlights: Help Increase Distributor’s Ability to SellStakeholder ManagementDecember 13th, 2021 Whizard Summit

Carolina Albano, Vice President of StoCorp's Rainscreen Division shares her perspective on the role of job site visits in securing the sale and providing cross-departmental insights to improve your building products manufacturing operation as a whole. Highlights from this episode: View the live episode here.