The Global Discussion

Simon Hodgkins, Host of The Global Discussion, explores “The Great Acceleration” in this solo episode, unpacking the key strategic themes emerging from ARK Invest’s Big Ideas 2026 report. He examines how artificial intelligence, robotics, blockchain, and energy systems are converging to reshape economic structures, compress timelines, and redefine competitive advantage. 00:00 – Introduction: The Great Acceleration 01:15 – Why ARK’s Big Ideas 2026 Is a Strategic Signal 03:20 – AI as a General Purpose Technology 05:45 – The AI Consumer Operating System 08:30 – Productivity Shifts & Knowledge Work 10:55 – Robotics, Energy & The Physical Economy 12:40 – Blockchain and Software-Defined Finance 14:10 – The Real Risk: Organizational Inertia & Final Thoughts Watch or Listen to The Global Discussion Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins steps away from the traditional interview format to explore a pivotal shift underway in the world of artificial intelligence. The first act of AI was loud. This second act is potentially far more powerful. Drawing on real-world trends and patterns across technology cycles, Simon makes the case that we have already moved beyond the infrastructure arms race. The spotlight is no longer solely on chips, data centers, and model size. Instead, the focus has shifted to something more consequential: adoption. This episode challenges listeners to think differently about what progress in AI really looks like, and why the most transformative changes rarely make headlines. 00:00 – Introduction: A Different Kind of Episode 00:40 – The First Act of AI: Chips, Compute & Capital 02:01 – Why Adoption Creates Long-Term Value 03:14 – Behavior Change vs. Technical Change 05:25 – AI in Advertising: Human Judgment Repositioned 07:40 – Security & Investigations: Smarter, Faster Decisions 08:55 – Enterprise Software & Durable Advantage 10:00 – The Cultural Shift & The Hard Questions Watch or Listen to The Global Discussion Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz... Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Simon Hodgkins speaks with Omaid Hiwaizi on this episode of The Global Discussion. Omaid Hiwaizi has been busy navigating the intersection of creativity, technology, and human behavior. His story, which he shared on The Global Discussion podcast, is shaped by migration, curiosity, and a relentless desire to work on ideas that matter. It is also the story of someone who refuses to view innovation as an abstract notion. For Omaid, technology is valuable only when it moves the needle for real people in the real world. 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Omaid Hiwaizi 00:33 - From Iraq to the UK, immigrant story and early life 01:14 - Maths, avant-garde design at i-D, and starting a first agency at 24 02:04 - Building HHM and Crayon, then moving into WPP, Sapient, and Blippar 03:24 - Working on emerging tech and complex propositions at Future Positive 06:36 - Making complexity compelling, L cells, GLP-1, and consumer storytelling 12:52 - Lessons from Blippar, Covent Garden AR campaign, and real business KPIs 24:44 - AI’s true impact, disappearing junior roles, no-code, and careers of the future Watch or Listen to The Global Discussion Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz... Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

David Quinn brings a mix of theatre, advertising insight, and cultural curiosity that feels both refreshing and grounded on this episode of The Global Discussion. As founder and Business Director of Bloom, the Dublin-based creative and strategic agency, David has spent decades helping challenger brands punch above their weight. His work with Brady Family Ham is the example most people know, but the thinking behind it is what really sets the tone for his approach. David traced the path that led him from the underground theatre scene in Galway to becoming a respected voice in Irish advertising. The journey is anything but linear, and that is what makes it compelling. 00:44 - Bloom Advertising and building Brady Family Ham into a market leader 01:15 - Punchbag Theatre, found spaces, and the origins of "Eclipsed." 07:23 - Magdalene Laundries, national reaction, and Tommy Tiernan's early days 08:41 - Founding Bloom, Bloomsday inspiration, and working with challenger brands 17:18 - How theatre and advertising intersect: big ideas, pitching, and performance 17:46 - "A Modest Proposal," homelessness, and savage satire in modern Ireland 26:32 - From cave paintings to AI: the future of media, IAPI, and advice for young creatives Watch or Listen to The Global Discussion Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz... Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

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Simon Hodgkins catches up with Amanda Wallace on this episode of The Global Discussion. As Director of CDH Consultants Ltd, Amanda brings two decades of executive experience, combining a deep understanding of people with the complex realities of business transformation.00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Amanda Wallace02:50 - From “office politics” to stakeholder management05:02 - The speed trap in transformation, resistance, and leadership misalignment08:04 - How Amanda aligns leadership, current state to target state15:14 - Stakeholder mapping, choosing champions, understanding impact and resistance20:33 - Supporting senior leaders, the perfection trap, when to step in or step back25:43 - AI, real data, and the future of leadership and org designWatch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz...Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Charlotte Otter, a former journalist turned executive coach and founder of Otter Advisory, is in conversation with Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. The topics include leadership, reputation, and what it really means to build trust in a world that never stops changing! 00:33 - Charlotte's journey, journalism to SAP to Otter Advisory, and change leadership MSc 04:13 - Why we need new leaders today, the crisis of leadership 07:35 - Adaptability over command and control, qualities modern leaders need 10:39 - Reputation equity explained, own your story, and create a record of success 14:11 - Reputation 360, unlocking executive narratives and a shy CEO case study 20:43 - The art of storytelling for leaders, details that create connection 26:52 - Final takeaway: build your reputation on LinkedIn. Watch or Listen to The Global Discussion Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz... Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes

Carolina Arroyo, the Founder and Managing Director of EC Peasy Communication, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion to explore how companies can scale their revenue without expanding headcount.00:35 - EC Peasy mission and services01:39 - From cold calling to smarter outbound systems06:38 - Content that drives sales, 80 percent research, and the 50-30-20 mix12:49 - AI-powered sequencing, email to LinkedIn to warm calls16:11 - Strategic commenting and LinkedIn profile optimization21:03 - Debunking myths about AI agents and why calling still works25:19 - Reverse pitching framework, lead with symptoms before the pitchWatch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz...Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Kim Polley, Co-founder of Frontièr Advisory, a firm that helps organizations navigate some of the world's most complex markets. Their conversation focused on reputation, trust, and the evolving challenges global businesses face when entering or operating in high-stakes environments. 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Kim Polley 00:36 - What is Frontièr Advisory? 02:04 - Why Trust Matters Now 02:56 - ESG and the Trust Dividend 05:01 - AI and Reputation 08:35 - From License to Operate to License to Belong 15:35 - Crisis, Community, and Reputation 22:41 - Misunderstanding Africa Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Mays Elansari, a seasoned marketing leader known for her sharp strategic mind, storytelling skills, and ability to bring brands to life across industries and regions. With experience at some of the world’s most recognized names, including McCann Erickson, BBDO, Subway, and Pinkberry, Mays has built a career around balancing creativity with commercial impact. She is also widely recognized in the industry as the “Queen of Events”. Mays shared thoughtful insights about marketing leadership, brand building, and the importance of human connection in an increasingly digital world. 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Mays Elansari 01:44 - Art and science in marketing, long and short balance 06:02 - Subway EMEA transformation, alignment, and the why 08:54 - Queen of Events, networking to insights and impact 13:41 -Judging top awards, creativity with measurable results 18:37 - Global to local, Pinkberry case and cultural nuance 27:22 - The future of engagement, the human element with AI Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Joanne Sweeney, the author of AI Playbook, CEO of the Public Sector Marketing Institute, and Owner of the Digital Training Institute, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Joanne has worked at the intersection of journalism, communications, and digital transformation for many years, constantly adapting her skills to stay ahead of change. She has carved out a unique space as a trusted authority in public sector communications. In this episode, Joanne shares her journey from her early days as a journalist to becoming a leading voice on AI, digital strategy, and government communications. 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Joanne Sweeney 00:26 - 25 years in communications, staying ahead through every digital wave 02:48 - The aha moment, niching into public sector and launching a global mission 06:03 - The Apprentice lesson, why scalability and focus changed everything 10:33 - Exclusive, announcing The AI Playbook and who it is for 14:08 - Creating a language for public sector marketing and Harvard takeaways 20:15 - Lead with value, podcasts, and building trust over virality 27:09 - Inside AIj, turning a career’s knowledge into practical AI products Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes Alastair McDermott, an AI consultant, speaker, trainer, and the founder of HumanSpark•ai. Alastair is also the author of "Use AI, Stay Human" and the host of "The AI-Powered Business Leader" podcast. His perspective on artificial intelligence blends deep technical expertise with a clear focus on people, empathy, and real-world results. 01:25 - Pivot to AI, rebranding to HumanSpark.ai, why he went all in 03:14 - Human-first AI, empower teams, from productivity gains to transformation and learning 07:38 - Case study, medical lab automation cuts processing from 90 minutes to two 14:02 - Accuracy and evals, error checking, and why the EU AI Act matters 17:22 - AGI outlook, the jagged edge of AI strengths and weaknesses 21:56 - Writing Use AI, Stay Human, developmental editor, and synthetic beta readers 32:48 - Free AI toolkits, adoption roadmap, where to find Alastair, closing remarks Listen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Jona Hysa, a London-based social media strategist, founder of Time4PA, and the driving force behind the Moving Women Forward community, speaks with Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Jona’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and a deep commitment to helping others thrive in both business and life. 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Jona Hysa 01:07 - From Albania to London: Jona’s Journey 02:20 - Starting as a Virtual Assistant 04:32 - Building Confidence and Helping Businesses 08:01 - The Social Media Landscape Today 15:19 - SEO vs AI Optimization 17:49 - Creating the Moving Women Forward Community 29:25 - Key Takeaway: “I Did It” Mindset Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

James Louttit, Founder and Lead Trainer at Impactful Project Management, is in discussion with Host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion to discuss a common challenge faced by leaders and team members: how to deliver results without burning out. 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest James Louttit 00:40 - James’s hospital epiphany and shift from effort to impact 04:59 - The eight lenses of project work with a focus on prioritization 11:48 - From saying no to asking why, driving real prioritization decisions 13:34 - The SAVE technique, practical tactics to kick start any project 19:51 - Lean Coffee explained, surfacing issues and creating buy in 24:24 - Risk based contingency, replacing blanket 10 to 20 percent buffers 29:43 - Blending agile and waterfall, choosing what fits your team and context Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Iza Dabek, a Rapid Transformational Practitioner and Founder of Healing Habits Coaching. Iza works with high-achieving professionals, creatives, and founders to help them break through the subconscious patterns that keep them stuck, particularly those tied to self-sabotage, low confidence, and burnout. 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest Úna Herlihy 00:39 – Úna’s background in advertising and early career journey 02:15 – Transition to freelancing in 2005 and early challenges 06:49 – Impact of COVID-19 and how The Indie List began 13:10 – How The Indie List is different from other freelance platforms 22:16 – Providing business and compliance support for freelancers 25:01 – The changing mindset of senior professionals post-COVID 33:02 – Future focus on skills development and education initiatives Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Úna Herlihy, Founder & CEO and Chief Matchmaker at The Indie List, speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode of The Global Discussion. Based in Ireland, Úna built Ireland's leading curated freelance network for marketing and creative talent, bridging experienced professionals with purposeful clients through thoughtful matchmaking. 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest Úna Herlihy 00:39 – Úna’s background in advertising and early career journey 02:15 – Transition to freelancing in 2005 and early challenges 06:27 – Impact of COVID-19 and how The Indie List began 13:14 – How The Indie List is different from other freelance platforms 25:05 – The changing mindset of senior professionals post-COVID 33:02 – Future focus on skills development and education initiatives Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

When it comes to turning complex technologies into compelling stories, few do it with the clarity, warmth, and precision of Andie Cooper, International PR Director at Beachhut PR. On this episode of The Global Discussion, host Simon Hodgkins sat down with Andie to explore the evolving world of public relations, the unique challenges of working with tech companies, and the importance of communicating with purpose. 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Andie Cooper of Beachhut PR 02:45 – Why Local PR Comes First for Startups 05:00 – Telling a Value-Driven Story, Not a Technical One 07:43 – The Importance of Translating Complexity 11:23 – Building Media Relationships That Last 15:17 – Helping Founders Become Confident Spokespeople 25:36 – How PR Has Evolved With Speed and New Channels 32:33 – Using PR to Amplify Women in Tech Listen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

Jim Carlough, Chief Sales Officer at mPulse, is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in healthcare and technology. With a proven track record of empowering leaders and launching his new book, Six Pillars of Effective Leadership, Jim joins Simon Hodgkins to unpack how integrity, empathy, and laughter can define outstanding leadership in today's world. 00:00 – Introduction Jim Carlough 01:03 – From Healthcare & Tech to Mentoring 04:36 – Pillar 1: Integrity & Trust 05:00 – Authoritarian vs Human Leadership 06:29 – Compassion vs Empathy Defined 07:45 – Stability, Focus & the Bezos Example 08:27 – Humor as a Leadership Tool 13:32 – Lifelong Learning & Mentors 16:39 – Remote Leadership & Video Connection 20:00 – Burnout, Well‑Being & Duty of Care 21:59 – Coaching Program & Future Plans 24:40 – Connect with Jim & Book Info 25:44 – Closing Thoughts on Optimism Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.

If you've been wondering how SEO is evolving in the age of AI, this episode of The Global Discussion is one you'll want to spend time with. Host Simon Hodgkins is joined by Maeva Cifuentes, Founder of Flying Cat Marketing, to discuss the shifting landscape of search, content, and digital strategy. Maeva brings sharp insight, deep experience, and a clear voice to conversations that cut through the hype and get to what matters for businesses today. 00:40 – How SEO and Search Are Evolving with AI 01:10 – Why Ranking #1 Doesn’t Always Mean Clicks 03:05 – The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Technical SEO 05:00 – Rethinking SEO Metrics in the Age of AI Overviews 06:00 – Chasing LLM Visibility: What Actually Matters 08:15 – Why Domain Expertise Beats High-Volume Content 11:42 – How Brands Can Start Ranking in AI Results 22:02 – Empowering Ambitious Women Toward Leadership Listen to The Global Discussion • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes

Niamh Cooper has a way with words. Whether she's helping a global brand craft compelling content or guiding aspiring writers to start their first story, her passion for storytelling runs deep. 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Niamh Cooper 03:40 – Launching “Word Matters” 04:13 – Writing for Humans in an AI World 10:12 – Enter the Stan Challenge 13:00 – Starting a 30-Day Writing Challenge 16:16 – The “Find Your Voice” Retreat 20:04 – What’s Ahead: Word Matters & Beyond 24:11 – Final Thoughts: Reignite Your Voice Watch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4nWeb ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠YouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes