Power Hour Podcast

Stop wrestling with responsive Canvas Apps. Lukas Pavelka is back to demo the brand-new Power Apps for Figma DesignKit UI, a beta responsive layout system, rapid icon swapping, one-click PDF docs, and a Power BI DesignKit prototype for dataflows. If you build on the Power Platform and care about speed, consistency, and client-ready prototypes—this one’s loaded.What you’ll learn1. New DesignKit UI (v4.1.3) and layout improvements2. Responsive screens (beta): top/content/bottom containers + quick tweaks in Power Apps3. Swap Icons while preserving size and color (huge time-saver)4. Clickable Figma prototypes that mirror Power Apps navigation (import now, export planned)5. Theme & style controls across containers (batch text/background updates)6. Auto-generated PDF documentation (screens, colors, typography, icons)Roadmap: annotation maker, user prefix, extended property maker, inherited naming, property helper, UDF makerModel-driven progress + Power BI DesignKit (free) for dataflows import/export between Figma & Power BITimestamps00:01 Intro & why this episode matters00:28 What’s new: rebuilt UI + release v4.1.304:31 The pain of responsive Canvas Apps (and the fix)05:03 Responsive containers: top/content/bottom (beta)09:56 Getting parity in Power Apps (and plans for v4.5)12:28 Swap Icons demo13:21 Prototyping flows between screens in Figma16:38 Model-driven updates in progress17:15 Styles/Theming: fast container-wide edits18:18 Training & GoCollab community plan20:56 Documentation push & videos21:52 One-click PDF doc export22:15 Roadmap deep-dive (annotations, prefixes, UDFs)27:50 Power BI DesignKit (free) first look: dataflows import/export31:28 Lukas’ ask: honest feedback from the community---Try/buy DesignKit for Power Apps: https://designkit.cz/Follow Lukas Pavelka on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukas-lp-pavelka/Powercademy: https://powercademy.com---

Six-time Microsoft MVP Dian Taylor went from HR to leading with pre-sales demos that actually solve problems. We unpack how to listen, build trust, avoid “feature fireworks,” and create content without burning out - plus what’s real vs hype with Copilot and Copilot Studio for Dynamics 365.What you’ll learn:1. Pre-sales doesn't mean implementation: why “lightweight” discovery + tailored demos win2. The trusted-advisor stance: listen for pain, not features3. Smoke-and-mirrors (ethically) and the Tell-Show-Tell framework4. Consistent content without burnout (cadence, unique POV, seasons)5. Where Copilot/Copilot Studio shines today in Sales & Customer Service6. Community as a career accelerant; learning as a forever-skillTimestamps:00:00 Intro & Dian’s path from HR → Dynamics 365 (6x MVP)05:56 Skills that separate great pre-sales engineers12:14 The sales bit; Tell-Show-Tell18:07 Community + content: filling the “no more training” gap23:16 Finding your lane & staying consistent31:58 What’s exciting in Copilot Studio right now37:39 Navigating constant change without overwhelmLinks:👉 Learn with us: Powercademy.com👉 Dian’s blog: https://d365goddess.com/ | YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@D365Goddess👍 Like, subscribe, and drop your favorite takeaway.🔗 Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howdangrashid/

What really happens after you earn Microsoft MVP status? 🎖️ Cat Schneider went from Florida state-government analyst to Power Platform wizard, MVP, and accessibility champion. In this episode, she reveals how community involvement (plus a dash of ADHD-fuelled curiosity) accelerated her career - and how you can tap the same playbook.WHAT YOU’LL LEARN- The real mindset behind becoming an MVP (hint: it’s not the badge)- Practical ways introverts can network at conferences - without the awkwardness- Cat’s favorite accessibility tips (why screen-reader-friendly, emoji-heavy UX)- Why “don’t be a gatekeeper” should be every maker’s mantra- The origin story of the UX/UI Allies user group and how to get involvedTIMESTAMPS00:00 – Cat Schneider’s origin story03:03 – Discovering the Power Platform & community05:46 – Conference adventures (dino suits included)08:56 – First steps to contributing back11:57 – Accessibility best practices for makers14:51 – Networking tips for introverts17:59 – Demystifying the MVP journey20:58 – The true essence of “Most Valuable Professional”30:08 – Life changes & renewal realities32:13 – Why contribution beats recognition33:36 – Navigating career transitions39:19 – Overcoming self-doubt46:06 – Launching the Accessibility User Group51:04 – Screen readers & inclusive design► Level-up your skills at Powercademy.com!► Like this episode? Smash that 👍, subscribe, and ring the 🔔 so you never miss a Power Hour.► Connect with Cat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yerawizardcat/► Join the UX/UI Allies user group: https://community.powerplatform.com/usergroups/details/?groupid=74f25fad-a83a-4acd-9f79-a51fc5b59bcb

Why watch?ERP veteran Andy Wingate demystifies Dynamics 365 Business Central - the cloud ERP that every SMB seems to be buzzing about nowadays. From real-world implementation horror stories to AI-powered invoices, Andy I spill hard-won lessons you won’t find in the docs.Key takeaways1. What Business Central is (and isn’t) inside the Dynamics 365 family2. How ISVs super-charge BC when out-of-the-box falls short3. Soft-skills that turn consultants into trusted advisors4. The most common implementation mistake: underestimating time & testing5. Learning paths: Microsoft Learn, community forums, and Andy’s own resources6. Copilot & AI agents already live in BC—and how to adopt them responsiblyTimestamps00:00 Intro to Business Central & ERP02:24 Core functionality breakdown05:54 COVID’s impact on cloud ERP09:08 Business Central ↔ Dataverse integration15:26 Why soft skills matter in consulting21:51 Learning pathways & resources27:28 LinkedIn productivity hacks28:54 Building the BC community30:10 Top implementation mistakes36:56 Testing & user training tips41:16 The future: AI inside BC48:10 Prepping your org for AINext steps🌐 Powercademy.com – deeper dives & free tools🔔 Like / Subscribe / Bell – weekly Power Platform insights🤝 Connect with Andy – https://andy.ms/in📲 Blog + WhatsApp feed – https://andy.ms/bcrss📝 Technical blog – https://blog.wingate365.com/🏢 Venture (Andy’s day job) – https://venture.ms📚 BC vs FO guide (Venture) – https://venture.ms/BCvFO

Are Power Platform devs about to get super-powers?Microsoft MVP Nick Doelman joins me to break down exactly how Power Pages, Dataverse fundamentals and “vibe coding” with AI are reshaping the way we build customer-facing apps. If you’re a maker, consultant or pro-coder wondering what the next wave of Power Platform work looks like, this episode is your roadmap.What you’ll learn (fast-scan bullets)- Why “Power Pages is a huge skill to have.”- The 3-step roadmap from Dataverse rookie to Power Pages pro- How “vibe coding” + GitHub Copilot slashes build time (and what still trips you up)- Practical ways to calm “AI anxiety” and keep your career future-proofCommunity hacks that turned Nick into a 6-time MVP (and how to start small)- The reality of leaving Microsoft for indie consulting - freedom vs. safety netsTimestamps00:00 – Intro & Nick’s career snapshot06:09 – Why learning Power Pages matters now11:52 – Your roadmap to Power Pages mastery17:47 – Vibe Coding explained29:55 – Bridging pro-code ↔ low-code33:02 – Handling AI anxiety42:44 – MVP path & community tips52:50 – From Microsoft employee to solo practice👉 Like & subscribe for weekly drops.⚡️ Dive deeper at Powercademy.com🔗 Connect with Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickdoelman/🔗 Follow Howdang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howdangrashid/

🚀 Why hit “publish” in the first place?Power BI specialist Duncan Boyne went from zero posts to speaking gigs, user-group founder & “progression on steroids” in just six months. In this episode he opens the playbook: how documenting his journey built a personal brand, attracted real-world opportunities and - yes - how he keeps LinkedIn from eating his day.🎯 What you’ll learn:- Turning your LinkedIn feed into a visual CV that recruiters love-Authenticity vs. AI: using ChatGPT for polish, not personality-Building an Idea Bank to end writer’s block forever- Taming social-media addiction with timers & phone “lock-boxes”- Crafting a workspace that kills brain-fog and fuels focus- Why “teaching is the fastest way to learn” (and grow community)- The Power Platform angle: leveraging Power BI & user groups for reach👇 Dive in, then build your own brand1. Visit Powercademy.com – deeper Power Platform learning2. Like 👍, Subscribe 🔔 & Drop a Comment – we read every one3. Connect with Duncan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncanboyne/⏱️ Timestamps00:00 – The Journey of Content Creation02:19 – Building a Personal Brand08:05 – Strategies for Brand Development14:59 – Overcoming Content Creation Challenges17:10 – Finding Your Unique Voice23:15 – Balancing AI and Authenticity28:45 – The Challenge of Content Ownership31:57 – The Impact of AI on Creativity34:45 – Social Media Addiction & Its Effects45:13 – Creating Content: Finding Your Process52:33 – Final Thoughts & Where to Find Duncan

In this episode, I sit down with Ilyas Khan, co‑founder of Cloud Surge - to unpack the tough truths of entrepreneurship and the evolving AI landscape. We dive into his journey with Microsoft Power Platform, imposter syndrome, building a personal brand, and how data skills are mission‑critical for today’s tech leaders.00:00 – Introduction to Freedom and Entrepreneurship 05:05 – Challenges of Starting Cloud Surge 10:40 – The Importance of Networking 15:58 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 22:15 – The Impact of AI on Business Solutions 28:56 – The Urgency of Data in AI 30:18 – Essential Data Skills for Power Platform Professionals 33:59 – The Importance of Specialization and Collaboration 37:42 – Mindset Shifts for Career Growth 52:23 – Connecting Profit with Purpose What you’ll learn:- The hidden meaning behind “freedom” in entrepreneurship- How prioritization helps maintain work–life balance- Growth-focused networking strategies- Overcoming imposter syndrome in tech- Why data skills matter more than ever in the age of AI- The power of personal branding and preparation- Aligning profit with purpose for business fulfillment- Embracing continuous learning in fast‑moving industriesDon’t miss actionable insights from Ilyas on AI, mindset resets, and business strategy.🔥 Subscribe for more Power Platform insights.Check out Cloud Surge: http://linkedin.com/company/cloud-surge/posts/?feedView=allFollow us:Website: Powercademy .comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howdangrashid/Follow Ilyas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/solutionkhan/

Thinking about diving into Power Pages but not sure where to start?This episode is your ultimate guide.I sit down with Ulrikke Akerbæk, a Power Pages expert, to map out what it really takes to succeed in this growing space within the Power Platform. From technical skills to mindset shifts, Ulrikke lays it all out.We explore everything from data modeling and web development skills to the evolution of Plan Designer and the role of AI in the future of Power Pages.Whether you’re a pro dev, low-code enthusiast, or just Power Platform curious – this one’s packed with insight.💡 Key Takeaways: Why Power Pages is gaining serious traction Core web development skills you’ll need to make the switch How data modeling and ALM are critical for success Plan Designer’s current role and future potential AI’s impact on Power Pages development Learning pathways to accelerate your journey Why community engagement multiplies your growth Real-world advice from someone who’s deep in the ecosystem🔗 Links & Resources: Follow Ulrikke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ulrikke/ Learn more at Powercademy.com👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more Power Platform insights.🎧 Available on all platforms – Spotify, YouTube, and RSS.⏱️ Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to Power Pages and Community Impact 03:07 – Transitioning to Power Pages: Skills and Challenges 05:58 – The Role of Web Development in Power Pages 08:54 – Collaboration in Power Pages Projects 12:08 – Importance of Data Modeling and ALM 15:07 – Exploring Plan Designer and AI Integration 21:01 – Governance and Maintenance in Vibe Coding 28:13 – The Evolution of Testing in Development 30:20 – The Future of Development: AI and Automation 32:40 – Power Pages: The New Frontier 35:17 – Integrating Power Pages with Power Platform 39:28 – Learning Power Pages: A Practical Approach 46:56 – The Future of Power Pages and AI Integration

Your Power Apps shouldn’t scream “default templates” – and Lukas Pavelka’s DesignKit can fix that. In this episode of the Power Hour Podcast, I sit down with Lukas, the creator of DesignKit: a game-changing plugin that integrates Figma with Power Apps to streamline the design process, deliver professional-grade UI/UX, and save hours of development time.In this conversation, Lukas shares:- The story behind Design Kit and its evolution.- How it enhances Power Apps by syncing with Figma.- Key features like screen validation and easy export/import.- Live demo showing real-world use cases.- The subscription model and what’s coming next.- Candid advice for developers looking to create their own tools.Don’t miss this one if you’re serious about Power Apps, UI/UX, or leveling up your app development workflow.⏰ Timestamps1:00 – Figma-Power Apps integration explained.5:00 – Using DesignKit from scratch.10:00 – Real-world use case of DesignKit.16:00 – How to use Design Kit.31:00 – Pricing, subscriptions & future roadmap.41:00 – Advice for developers and creators.🚀 Take Action:✅ Download DesignKit TODAY :https://www.figma.com/community/plugin/1225860092414254002/power-apps-designkit-canvas🔗 Follow Lukas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukas-lp-pavelka/🌐 Visit Powercademy.com to level up your Power Platform skills.

In this episode, we welcome Josh Giles, Power Platform Solution Architect and community leader, to dive into his unique journey - from hardware support to ceiling fixing, all the way to Power Platform mastery. Josh’s story is a masterclass in resilience, curiosity, and the power of community.🌟 Key Takeaways:- How Josh transitioned from IT support to Power Platform Solution Architect- The importance of soft skills in advancing your career- The role of curiosity and continuous learning in Power Platform success- Practical advice for moving from small apps to enterprise solutions- How to build meaningful relationships with stakeholders and customers- Insights into the Scottish Power Platform User Group and community involvement- The future of AI and "vibe coding" in Power Platform development- Josh’s perspective on what freedom means in a tech career🔗 Connect with Josh:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshgiles94/Scottish Power Platform User Group: Reach out to Josh for speaking opportunities!👉 Don’t forget to:✅ Like this video✅ Subscribe to the Power Hour Podcast✅ Visit Powercademy.com for more contentTimestamps:00:00 – Intro & Josh’s background06:07 – Making the jump to Solution Architect12:44 – The power of community and networking17:47 – Transitioning from small apps to enterprise solutions27:09 – The role of AI in Power Platform33:56 – Vibe coding and the Plan Designer43:20 – Personal reflections and what freedom means to Josh