The Lucent Perspective

In this episode, Rebecca Hastings sits down with John Rossman — former Amazon executive, Managing Partner at Rossman Partners, and author of Big Bet Leadership and The Amazon Way series. They unpack what it really takes to drive transformation in high-stakes, high-ambiguity environments. John draws from his time launching and scaling the Amazon Marketplace and his advisory work with Fortune 500 leaders to explain how bold ambition, when paired with strategic discipline, is the winning formula for transformation that delivers. Whether you’re a founder at a fast-growing AI startup or a C-suite exec navigating transformation at scale, this episode arms you with a practical toolkit for making confident decisions and leading change that sticks. Topics Covered: Big Bet VectorEpisode Highlights: realAbout John Rossman: John Rossman is the Managing Partner at Rossman Partners, a former Amazon executive, and the author of the bestsellers Think Like Amazon and Big Bet Leadership. At Amazon, he led the launch of the Amazon Marketplace. Today, he advises leaders at global enterprises on strategy execution, digital transformation, and innovation leadership. 🔗 Resources & Links: John’s Book: Big Bet LeadershipLucent AI Salary Guides:https://bit.ly/DataAILeadershipGuide2025Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings is joined by Varun Nair, Co-Founder and CTO at That Works—an AI-powered workspace tackling the chaos of modern work by eliminating noise from meetings, messages, and manual status updates. With over 15 years of experience spanning startup exits, team-building at Meta, and investing in AI-first ventures, Varun shares how to move faster, build smarter, and avoid the common traps in early-stage product development. They dive into what makes AI startups succeed (or fail), how “done is better than perfect” still applies—if you execute it right—and why most tools miss the mark on real team productivity. If you're building in AI, trying to scale a SaaS product, or pitching in today’s competitive investor landscape, this episode is full of clarity and practical wisdom. Topics Covered: Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Intro to Varun Nair & That Works 02:00 – From Two Big Ears to Meta: scaling product & mindset 04:37 – Startup vs. Big Tech: how priorities shift 08:09 – Lessons from Meta: data, positioning & product clarity 11:54 – Startup #2: prioritization over hustle 16:56 – The real problem with dashboards, meetings & Slack 25:35 – Why shipping fast is still the smartest move 30:34 – Launching AI products: speed vs. substance 33:48 – What investors actually look for in AI startups 41:09 – Fundraising: qualifying VCs & avoiding pitch fatigue 48:43 – Varun’s advice for founders: detail, gut-feel & staying close to users About Varun Varun Nair is Co-Founder and CTO of That Works, an AI workspace that helps teams work smarter by cutting through the noise. Previously, he co-founded Two Big Ears (acquired by Meta), where he went on to lead product and platform engineering for immersive and AI technologies. He now advises AI startups across Europe and the US and writes regularly on how teams and products can scale with clarity, not chaos. 👉 Connect with Varun on LinkedIn Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings is joined by Andrei Opirsan, Head of Engineering at Agent AI—a platform redefining no-code AI. With over 15 years’ experience leading technical innovation at startups and tech giants like Wayfair and HubSpot, Andrei shares the engineering, architectural, and leadership choices that powered Agent AI’s explosive growth to 1.4 million users in under a year. They discuss how Agent AI empowers non-technical users to build intelligent agents, the challenges of orchestrating AI at scale, and why small teams often outperform larger ones. If you're navigating AI adoption, scaling a SaaS platform, or managing high-performance tech teams, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Topics Covered Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Intro to Andrei Opirsan & Agent AI 02:00 – The 3 pillars behind Agent AI’s growth 06:00 – Building for no-code and technical users 09:00 – When to build AI agents from scratch vs. integrate 11:00 – Agent orchestration and managing scale 15:00 – Testing, architecture reviews, and moving fast 21:00 – Small teams vs. large: Agility and ownership 24:30 – Traits to hire for in a startup environment 28:00 – Leadership shift: From doing to enabling 33:00 – How they manage distributed teams & alignment 36:30 – Metrics that matter beyond vanity user numbers 37:50 – Trust, AI in hiring, and identity verification About Andrei Andrei Opirsan is Head of Engineering at Agent AI and a co-founder of OneScreen.AI. With a background in scaling engineering teams and platforms at companies like Wayfair, Liberty Mutual, and HubSpot, he blends technical depth with product strategy. At Agent AI, he’s leading the charge in making AI agent-building accessible, scalable, and impactful—especially for non-technical users. Connect with Andrei on LinkedIn Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Lucas Lovell, VP of Product at Paddle. Lucas shares the behind-the-scenes story of how Paddle scaled from a growing fintech to a global leader in payments infrastructure—including navigating a major acquisition, evolving pricing models, and hiring talent for scale. Lucas offers insights into how AI is reshaping SaaS pricing strategies, what makes global expansion successful, and why product-led companies must strike a balance between scrappiness and operational maturity. Key Topics Covered Episode Highlights [00:59][02:25][06:41][13:55][19:45][26:48][30:34][32:36][36:59][39:25][43:00][44:39]About Lucas Lovell Lucas Lovell is the Vice President of Product at Paddle. Prior to Paddle, he co-founded Hopstay, an international travel tech company. With years of experience scaling product and engineering teams, Lucas now plays a key role in shaping Paddle’s global growth strategy, talent development, and pricing innovation. 📌 Connect with Lucas: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Paddle Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Oliver King Smith, founder of SmartR.AI. His company specializes in transforming raw data into behavioral intelligence, with expertise spanning AI-powered decision-making, machine learning, and embedded systems. Oliver shares insights on how businesses can navigate AI investments, avoid common pitfalls, and measure ROI effectively. He also discusses how AI models are evolving in 2025 and what leaders should focus on when implementing AI solutions. Key Topics Covered Episode Highlights [00:57] Oliver King Smith’s background and expertise in AI. [02:25] Why businesses struggle to measure AI ROI. [06:13] The biggest mistakes companies make when investing in AI. [08:44] Why AI projects often fail and how to set them up for success. [14:30] The role of private AI models in protecting sensitive data. [20:32] How AI hallucinations impact decision-making and how to control them. [24:26] The risks of AI model poisoning and how companies can safeguard against it. [29:19] How organizations can measure AI success beyond immediate ROI. [35:54] The evolving role of HR in AI adoption. [38:15] The impact of AI on hiring, talent retention, and job roles. [41:51] The future of AI hardware and how businesses can prepare. [47:26] How to balance human expertise with AI-driven decision-making. About Oliver King Smith Oliver King Smith is the founder of SmartR.AI, a company dedicated to optimizing AI-powered decision-making. With a background in machine learning, AI automation, and data-efficient reinforcement learning, Oliver has helped businesses navigate AI investments and strategy. 📌 Connect with Oliver: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 SmartR.AI Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Vladimir Baranov, an exited founder, CTO, and executive coach. With experience spanning fintech, wealth tech, aerospace, and AI-driven space technologies, he has co-founded and scaled multiple companies, including AdvisorEngine, later acquired by Franklin Templeton. Now, through Human Interfaces, he helps founders and executives improve leadership skills to run businesses effectively. Vladimir shares why technologists struggle in leadership, the most common mistakes founders make, and how to develop leadership skills for long-term success. Key Topics Covered HowHowHowHowHowHowEpisode Highlights [00:57][02:25]How[06:13]How[08:44]How[14:30]How[20:32]How[24:26]How[26:58]How[29:19]How[31:51]How[35:54]How[38:15]How[39:18]HowAbout Vladimir Baranov Vladimir Baranov is an exited founder, CTO, and executive coach with two decades of experience in fintech, aerospace, and AI-driven space technologies. Through Human Interfaces, he helps founders and executives scale businesses and develop leadership skills. 📌 Connect with Vladimir: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Human Interfaces – Book a free discovery session Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this bonus episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Leisa Docherty, an experienced Chief People Officer, Executive Coach, and HR transformation expert. Leisa has led HR strategies, business acquisitions, and cultural transformations at companies like Sage, Aspire Technology Solutions, and Causeway Technologies. She shares insights on navigating organizational change, AI integration, and leadership alignment. Key Topics Covered clear communicationorganizational structuresHR and People OpsEpisode Highlights [01:41] How to set up a successful post-acquisition integration [03:35] The importance of proactive and transparent communication [06:05] Key indicators for organizational restructuring [07:57] Why leadership alignment is critical during transformation [09:48] How AI is reshaping HR and business operations [10:52] Common disruptions and how to prepare for them [12:20] Building leadership skills to effectively drive change [15:54] Best practices for managing morale and expectations [17:18] Preparing for emerging roles and AI-driven shifts [18:34] Where to connect with Leisa for further insights About Leisa Docherty Leisa Docherty is a Chief People Officer, Executive Coach, and HR transformation expert with experience in M&A, organizational design, and leadership coaching. She helps businesses scale successfully while ensuring effective people strategies. 📌 Connect with Leisa: 🔗 LinkedIn Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Gary Crawford, an AI strategy expert and Founder of Owendale Advisory, a consultancy helping businesses adapt to the intelligence era. With rapid AI advancements, including agentic AI, businesses face new challenges and opportunities. Gary shares insights on AI-driven organizations, leadership evolution, and talent strategies in a changing landscape. He explores AI’s impact on hiring, business transformation, and strategic decision-making. Key Topics Covered Episode Highlights [00:57] Introduction to Gary Crawford and his AI strategy expertise. [02:33] What agentic AI is and how it operates autonomously. [04:39] Why AI adoption is a business transformation, not just a tech shift. [06:48] How AI is disrupting hiring and reshaping talent strategies. [10:49] The risks of over-relying on AI for decision-making. [15:08] How AI is transforming traditionally slow-adopting industries. [22:53] Common misconceptions about AI and its business impact. [31:12] Structural and cultural shifts businesses must prepare for. [35:53] Why delaying AI adoption could leave companies behind. [40:52] How leaders can strategically experiment with AI. [47:31] Final thoughts on AI’s impact on leadership and strategy. About Gary Crawford Gary Crawford is the Founder & Chief Advisor at Owendale Advisory, where he helps businesses align AI opportunities with strategic goals. With a background in working with C-level executives, boards, and leadership teams, Gary specializes in AI transformation, business strategy, and executive coaching. His experience spans financial services, healthcare, energy, public sector, and retail, making him a sought-after advisor on AI-driven innovation. 📌 Connect with Gary: 🔗 LinkedIn 🔗 Owendale Advisory Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Sam Mallikarjunan, General Manager at Agent.ai. Sam shares insights into how AI agents are revolutionizing work, streamlining decision-making, and enhancing productivity. Drawing from his experience as CEO at OneScreen AI, Chief Revenue Officer at Flock, and Head of Growth at HubSpot Labs, Sam explores the practical applications of AI agents and how businesses can leverage them effectively. Key Topics Covered Episode Highlights [00:58] Introduction to Sam Mallikarjunan and his background in AI, growth, and business strategy. [02:24] Why businesses need to rethink AI adoption and avoid past digital transformation mistakes. [04:13] Unique ways AI agents are enhancing learning, communication, and decision-making. [06:29] How Agent AI's team is using AI agents to manage workload and improve efficiency. [09:26] The power of customizable AI agents in sales, recruitment, and talent acquisition. [12:30] The shift towards AI-augmented teams and the evolving role of professionals. [17:00] The vision for Agent AI: democratizing AI access and enabling custom-built solutions. [22:25] The role of AI in user research and product development. [28:54] How AI agents can free up time for strategic thinking and innovation. [35:06] Lessons from HubSpot: growing a company while focusing on people and customers. [43:22] The future of AI agents: reducing costs, improving performance, and reshaping SaaS. [46:11] Where to learn more about Agent AI and connect with Sam. About Sam Mallikarjunan Sam Mallikarjunan is the General Manager at Agent.ai, a company focused on democratizing access to AI agents for businesses and individuals. With previous leadership roles at OneScreen AI, Flock, and HubSpot Labs, Sam has extensive experience in growth, revenue strategy, and AI-driven innovation. His work centers on enabling organizations to build and customize AI tools that drive efficiency, enhance decision-making, and shape the future of work. LinkedinRebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, Rebecca Hastings speaks with Lucas Hendrich, Chief Technology Officer at Forte Group. Lucas brings his expertise in AI-enabled data architecture, governance, and the intersection of technology and business strategy. The discussion explores actionable steps for scaling AI projects, overcoming data challenges, and the transformative potential of extended intelligence in organizations. Key Topics Covered Episode Highlights [00:56] Introduction to Lucas Hendrich and his role at Forte Group, focusing on AI-enabled data architecture and governance. [02:03] Steps for scaling AI projects and avoiding innovation for its own sake. [05:32] Data challenges in businesses, including legacy systems and overlooked analytics opportunities. [09:10] AI’s role in talent acquisition, from unstructured data to assessing candidate fit. [12:22] Guardrails for AI adoption and the ubiquity of tools like ChatGPT. [20:26] Using data to shape team personas and enhance performance management. [27:14] Real-time analytics and the benefits of adopting data lakehouses. [36:16] Extended intelligence as a framework for enhancing human decision-making. [50:08] The importance of aligning AI initiatives with clear business objectives. [51:55] Lucas’s key advice: engineer toward results, not technology for its own sake. About Lucas Hendrich Lucas Hendrich is the Chief Technology Officer at Forte Group, where he specializes in AI-enabled data architecture and governance. With a career spanning advisory roles with private equity firms and global boards, Lucas has played a pivotal role in aligning technology strategies with business goals. His work focuses on making data a strategic asset, driving efficiency, and creating scalable, future-ready systems. LinkedIn For updates on The Lucent Perspective, subscribe to our podcast, share this episode, or leave a review. Access Lucent Group’s talent guides at www.lucent-search.com/salaryguide. Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, we’re joined by Mark Herschberg, a technology leader, author, and MIT instructor. With over 20 years of experience in AI, cybersecurity, and innovation, Mark shares strategies for building essential leadership skills. As creator of the Brain Bump app and a fractional CTO, he explores integrating AI, fostering adaptability, and building resilient tech teams. From AI integration challenges to the human side of hiring, this episode offers insights for future-proofing careers and organizations. Key Topics Covered: Episode Highlights: About Mark Herschberg: Mark Herschberg is a technology leader, author, and educator with over two decades of experience in AI, cybersecurity, and team-building. He authored The Career Toolkit: Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You and created the Brain Bump app for on-demand professional tips. Mark on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey/ Resources Mentioned: The Career Toolkit: Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught Youbrainbumpapp.comthecareertoolkitbook.comcognoscomedia.comRebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, we’re joined by Ron Green, co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI. With over 20 years of experience in AI and a career dedicated to practical applications of machine learning, Ron shares his perspective on what it takes to build and lead high-performing AI teams. From hiring production-grade AI engineers to the importance of ongoing skill development, Ron provides a comprehensive guide for companies looking to harness AI effectively. Known for his work in creating custom AI solutions, Ron brings a unique approach to AI talent, emphasizing domain-specific applications and the critical role of culture in team dynamics. Key Topics Covered: Episode Highlights: [00:57][02:58][04:38][09:45][22:25][30:09][38:10]About Ron Green: Ron Green is the co-founder and CTO of KUNGFU.AI, where he leads a team of engineers focused on developing tailored AI solutions for clients across a range of industries. With a strong emphasis on practical, production-ready AI, Ron’s approach prioritizes building reliable, scalable AI models that meet specific business objectives. In addition to his role at KUNGFU.AI, Ron hosts Hidden Layers, a podcast exploring current developments in AI and offering insights for both technical and business audiences. Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

In this episode of The Lucent Perspective, we are joined by Olga Topchaya, the founder and CEO of Lapis AI Consults. Olga shares her expertise in aligning artificial intelligence with strategic business goals, drawing from over a decade in marketing and product development. As a seasoned professional in AI integration, Olga provides practical advice on assessing company readiness for AI, strategies for successful AI implementation, and the importance of custom solutions versus off-the-shelf AI options. Her insights cover the full spectrum of AI adoption, from planning and training to scaling and overcoming barriers. Key Topics Covered: Episode Highlights: [00:56][01:48][03:33][05:51][09:25][19:18][27:23][39:08][42:07]About Olga Topchaya: Olga Topchaya is the founder and CEO of Lapis AI Consults, where she leads the development of tailored AI solutions that align with client goals. With a unique blend of experience in marketing and product development, Olga transitioned into the AI sector to help businesses leverage AI effectively and strategically. Her work at Lapis AI Consults emphasizes practical and custom approaches to AI integration, particularly for companies looking to enhance productivity and customer engagement. Call to Action: Connect with Olga on LinkedIn: Olga Topchaya on LinkedIn Learn more about Lapis AI Consults at lapisconsults.com. Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

David Meikle, founder of Bloxweaver and a veteran in language technology, shares his insights on AI-driven content management and multilingual strategies. With extensive experience in open-source software and as a former CTO, David offers valuable perspectives on content management, AI customization, and preparing companies for exits. Key topics covered: Episode Highlights: [00:55] David's background in language technology and open-source software [02:11] Current challenges in multilingual content management for global businesses [05:58] How AI is addressing multilingual content challenges [08:36] The concept of "content fabric" and its importance for global businesses [11:45] Limitations of off-the-shelf large language models and the need for customization [20:45] Future developments in AI for language technology [25:57] David's experience with the Apache Software Foundation and its career impact [32:19] Balancing open-source work with professional responsibilities [34:55] Key factors for CTOs to consider when preparing a company for exit [38:01] How exit experience shaped David's approach to building Bloxweaver [39:53] Advice on considering exits from the outset of building a business [41:51] How to get involved with the Apache Software Foundation and open-source projects About David Meikle David Meikle is the founder of Bloxweaver, a company specializing in AI-driven content management and localization. With over 15 years of experience as a member of the Apache Software Foundation and a background as a CTO at companies like Lingo 24, David has been instrumental in advancing language technology and open-source software. LinkedInwww.bloxweaver.comRebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

Jamie Graves, a technology leader and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience, shares his journey from founding ZoneFox to his current role as an advisor and consultant in the tech industry. With a strong background in cybersecurity and AI, Jamie offers valuable insights on product management, leadership, and the evolving landscape of technology. Key topics covered: Episode Highlights: [00:58] Jamie's background and recent experiences in various tech sectors [03:21] Key lessons learned from developing ZoneFox [05:47] The importance of documentation and preparation when selling a company [08:47] Strategies for achieving product-market fit [12:24] The role of AI in augmenting human capabilities in cybersecurity [16:46] Challenges in translating technical capabilities into business value [21:41] The evolution of product management roles as companies scale [25:54] Exciting applications of AI in cybersecurity [32:18] Advice for CEOs and leaders preparing for company exits [37:12] Transitioning to advisory and non-executive roles [41:37] Leveraging board expertise and improving communication [48:09] The potential impact of AI on board roles and decision-making [54:53] Tips for managing a portfolio career and staying current in tech About Jamie Graves Jamie Graves is a technology leader and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience bringing cutting-edge products to market. He founded ZoneFox, an award-winning AI product and cybersecurity company that was acquired by Fortinet in 2018. Jamie has extensive experience in all stages of starting, building, growing, and selling technology businesses. LinkedInRebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

Gavin Cowie, an experienced VP of Engineering and CTO, shares his insights on successfully onboarding senior tech leaders, scaling engineering teams, and navigating cultural differences between US and UK tech scenes. With extensive experience in AI, data science, and cybersecurity companies, Gavin offers valuable perspectives for tech leaders facing the challenges of rapid growth and changing work environments. Key topics covered: Episode Highlights: [00:56] Introduction to Gavin Cowie's background and expertise [02:26] The evolution of engineering leadership from seed stage to Series C and beyond [05:06] The importance of "giving away your Legos" as companies scale [10:28] Crucial elements of onboarding for senior tech leaders [14:51] The value of understanding a company's history of change [22:00] Strategies for building key relationships when starting a new role [25:31] Cultural integration and alignment as an overlooked aspect of onboarding [32:34] Tips for onboarding engineers effectively [37:12] Navigating cultural differences between US and UK tech scenes [42:55] Top challenges for tech leaders in post-pandemic work environments [46:16] The impact of AI and emerging technologies on the future of work About Gavin Cowie Gavin Cowie is a highly experienced VP of Engineering and CTO who has worked in AI and data science companies including Alluvium (acquired by Augury), Rent the Runway, and Siacom. With a career spanning both the US and UK tech scenes, Gavin brings unique insights into scaling engineering teams and navigating cultural differences in global tech environments. LinkedInRebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

Keith McFarlane, CTO of Globality, shares his expertise on leveraging AI in procurement, scaling AI-driven platforms, and maintaining strong company culture in a hybrid work environment. With extensive experience in building and operating the world's first AI-driven autonomous sourcing platform, Keith offers valuable insights for tech leaders navigating the rapidly evolving AI landscape. Key topics covered: - The evolution of AI in procurement and its impact on efficiency - Technical challenges and solutions in scaling AI-driven platforms - Strategies for maintaining company culture in hybrid work environments - The importance of governance and learning in AI implementation - Future trends in AI and procurement Episode Highlights: [00:41] The crucial role of talent in applying AI effectively [02:23] The evolution of technology and its impact on procurement [05:32] Globality's approach to AI implementation since its founding [07:56] The value of having a robust data science team [13:19] Balancing AI implementation with practical business value [14:51] Key AI technologies and tools used by Globality [18:49] Technical challenges in scaling an AI-driven platform [22:07] The importance of security and reliability in high-value transactions [23:56] The growing importance of governance in AI implementation [28:50] Evaluating and integrating new AI tools into workflows [32:38] Maintaining company culture across multiple locations and time zones [39:33] The impact of AI on procurement efficiency and CFO decision-making [41:47] Advice for tech leaders in scaling AI businesses About Keith McFarlane Keith McFarlane is the CTO of Globality, responsible for building and operating the world's first AI-driven autonomous sourcing platform. With extensive experience in the tech industry, Keith leads Globality's efforts in leveraging AI to revolutionize procurement processes and drive efficiency for businesses worldwide. - Connect with Keith on LinkedIn - Globality's website: [globality.com](https://www.globality.com) Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

Daniel Codd, seasoned sales leader, shares insights on AI innovations in sales, strategies for expanding into new markets, maximizing growth from existing customers, and building effective sales teams. With extensive experience in AI and SaaS sales, Daniel offers valuable advice for founders and sales leaders navigating the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Key topics covered: Episode Highlights: [00:41] The importance of intent data in targeting the right prospects [03:48] Focusing on quality leads rather than quantity for founders [07:56] The value of having a robust sales process before implementing AI tools [12:56] Differences in expanding to the UK versus the US market [16:31] The role of partner networks in successful expansion [20:35] Avoiding common pitfalls when promoting AEs to sales leadership roles [25:15] Key qualities CEOs should look for in senior sales leaders [28:24] The importance of cultural fit and managing change in sales leadership [36:45] Strategies for maximizing growth from existing customers [42:34] Challenges in selling high-ticket AI solutions [47:55] The importance of asking questions and preparation in sales meetings [54:28] Tips for effective sales pitches and establishing rapport quickly [55:14] Advice for sales leaders looking to expand their sales presence About Daniel Codd Daniel Codd is a seasoned sales leader with extensive experience in AI and SaaS sales. He has a proven track record of managing and delivering multimillion-pound deals and high-performing teams for tech startups and established companies. Daniel has served as the global head of sales at Hedgehog Lab and the head of global sales at TopCoder. LinkedIn Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

Jothy Rosenberg, a serial entrepreneur with nine startups and multiple successful exits, shares his valuable insights on startup leadership, fundraising, and building resilient teams. With over 35 years of experience in the tech industry, Jothy offers extensive knowledge for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders. Key topics covered: - Critical factors for building and scaling a successful startup - Strategies for effective fundraising at different startup stages - The role of resilience and optimism in entrepreneurship - Building strong founding teams and fostering great company culture - Common pitfalls to avoid when dealing with investors and co-founders Episode Highlights: [02:46] Finding a great market for your startup [05:53] Jothy's experience with pivoting and his SSL certificate company's success [10:23] Challenges of raising money at different startup stages [15:09] Approaches to fundraising for seed rounds and Series A [20:01] The crucial role of communication in building strong company culture [25:06] Key traits of successful entrepreneurs: optimism and resilience [30:54] Choosing co-founders and building complementary founding teams [38:26] Jothy's experience raising a bridge round from 83 individual angel investors [48:10] Maintaining professional boundaries with investors About Jothy Rosenberg Jothy Rosenberg is a serial entrepreneur who has founded and led nine startups over 35 years, with several successful exits including two for over $100 million. He holds a PhD in Mathematics from UC Berkeley and an executive MBA from Stanford. Jothy is also the author of multiple books, including his upcoming "Tech Startup Toolkit: How to Launch Strong and Exit Big." In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Jothy is the founder of the "Who Says I Can't" foundation, which helps kids with disabilities get involved in sports. - Jothy on LinkedIn - Jothy's website: [jothyrosenberg.com](https://jothyrosenberg.com) - Email: jothy@jothyrosenberg.com - "Who Says I Can't" foundation: [whosaysicant.org](https://whosaysicant.org) Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming businesses across industries, but successfully implementing AI requires careful planning and execution. In this episode, I'm joined by Oliver King-Smith, Founder of smartR.ai and a trailblazing inventor and entrepreneur revolutionizing AI applications. With over 25 years of experience developing cutting-edge tech to address real-world challenges, Oliver shares his expert insights on how companies can effectively adopt AI. You will hear key insights on: - Common misconceptions about AI among C-suite executives - Best practices for implementing AI securely and ethically - Potential risks of relying on big tech companies for AI services - How to prepare your workforce for the shifts brought by AI adoption - Emerging roles and skills that will be valuable in the AI industry - Key factors to consider when evaluating AI solutions Episode Highlights [02:46] Common misconceptions about AI vs. algorithms among executives [05:53] Best practices for implementing AI securely and protecting data [10:23] Potential risks of relying on big tech companies for AI services [15:09] How to prepare your existing workforce for AI-driven changes [20:01] Emerging roles like data curators and AI ethics professionals [25:06] Critical skills for AI careers - debugging, engineering mindset, adaptability [30:54] Key factors for C-suite to consider when evaluating AI solutions [38:26] Advice for companies starting their AI implementation journey [48:10] How companies can ensure their data remains secure with AI [52:18] Final takeaways and recommendations for C-suite executives About Oliver King-Smith Oliver King-Smith is a trailblazing inventor and entrepreneur revolutionizing healthcare technology, sensors and artificial intelligence. As the founder of smartR.ai, he is pioneering innovative AI applications to drive societal change. Oliver holds a PhD in Mathematics from UC Berkeley and an executive MBA from Stanford. He has founded multiple companies, holds several patents, and brings extensive expertise in data visualization, statistics, machine vision, robotics and AI. * Oliver on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/oliverkingsmith * smartR.ai website: smartr.ai Rebecca Hastings, Founder and Director at The Lucent Group Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hastingsrebecca/ Would you like to be a guest? Book a time to speak with Rebecca: https://calendly.com/rebeccahastings/discovery-call The Lucent Group Ltd website - https://www.thelucentgroup.co.uk/ The Lucent Perspective website - https://thelucentperspective.com/ Rebecca has extensive talent and executive search experience supporting digital and technology businesses through complex changes and fast-paced scale-up periods. She works with businesses advising on C-level, technical, sales and commercial appointments, workforce planning, strategic talent management, recruitment processes and associated technology and employer brand development.