The Ready Podcast

In this episode of the Ready Podcast, we venture deeper into the game-changing world of artificial intelligence with Andy Nolan, Director of Emerging Technologies at Thoughtworks. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Andy has spearheaded advancements in AI and computer vision across diverse fields and has an extensive academic background including a Master's in Computer Vision and Artificial Intelligence from the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, making him exceptionally qualified to discuss the profound of impact AI. You will hear Andy share his perspective on the future of AI in the workforce, discussing the pace of adoption and the importance of building a culture of continuous learning and innovation. He also provides real-world examples that showcase AI's transformative potential in augmenting experiences and creating new opportunities. During their discussion, Marc and Andy delve into the human side of AI and its societal impacts, unpacking ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks necessary for responsible AI development, as well as emphasising the need for inclusivity, and consideration of positive social and environmental impacts. Join us as we unpack the vast landscape of AI with Andy Nolan, offering a wealth of knowledge and practical insights for leaders, professionals, and anyone keen to dive deeper into the AI revolution. Don't get left behind! This episode promises to equip you with the right questions, tools and understanding needed to move beyond the hype and build an effective AI strategy for your team, organisation and industry at large.

In the latest episode of the Ready Podcast, we embark on an insightful journey into the life and advocacy of Wayne Herbert, a distinguished presenter, author of Anecdotes of a Disabled Gay, and all-round global rockstar recognised extensively for his work in championing disability rights and LGBTQ+ inclusion. In this episode, Marc delves into Wayne’s personal journey, professional pursuits, and visionary insights into how we can all contribute to shaping a more inclusive workplace and society. From his upbringing in regional NSW to his tireless advocacy work, Wayne shares candid stories and profound reflections on the intersections of disability, identity, and social progress. Throughout this episode, listeners will be captivated by Wayne's resilience and ability to engage an audience and inject humour into discussions surrounding even the most complex societal issues. Through his lived experiences, we gain a deeper understanding of the pivotal role of family support, the pervasive challenges of discrimination, and the transformative power of inclusive employment. Marc and Wayne cover everything from pressing topics such as the Disability Royal Commission, to the critical role of disability employment services, and the imperative of diversity in shaping a more just and equitable world. The episode offers a rich tapestry of insights and conversations, illuminating the journey toward breaking down barriers and fostering genuine inclusivity. Join us as we challenge assumptions, amplify diverse voices, and envision a future where every individual's unique contributions are valued and celebrated!

From the boardroom to the barbeque, the transformative opportunity of AI has taken centre stage in recent times, captivating minds and sparking debate and conversations that resonate far and wide. But as the dust settles on arguably the defining technology of our time, how should we look to harness the full potential of AI to augment the ways in which we work and live?   In this enlightening episode of the Ready Podcast, Marc sits down with Rachel Bondi, Regional Vice President at Microsoft Asia to explore AI revolutionary impact on work, education, customer experience, and of course – the skills required for the future.   From enhancing productivity to improving the quality of work life, Rachel and Marc share their unique insights into how AI has evolved from a novel concept to a powerful force reshaping the way we work and engage with our teams – exploring its real impact on work, learning, and human interaction to become ‘the ultimate procrastination killer’.   Drawing on her impressive tenure at Microsoft, Rachel offers invaluable advice for leaders seeking to accelerate their AI journey – emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture of experimentation and embracing failure, and reinforcing the imperative mindset of lifelong learning, staying adaptable, and upskilling to stay ahead.   Whether you're a tech enthusiast, industry professional, or simply captivated by the allure of the AI frontier, this episode offers valuable insights and a glimpse into the transformative power of AI, offering practical insights for leaders, professionals, and anyone intrigued by the AI revolution.

The justice system is filled with institutions that are both revered and steeped in tradition. But is this proud history a barrier or an enabler to access and innovation? Michael Talbot has devoted much of his career to innovating and challenging new ways of thinking in the justice sector. As former NSW Deputy Secretary Courts & Tribunals, he led a successful agenda of change and transformation in the state’s administration functions within this space.  In today’s episode of The Ready Podcast, Michael and Marc Washbourne explore how legal institutions can marry up deep tradition with effective change and digital transformation, and innovate so that every member of our community –  no matter their station or location – can access justice whenever they need it.  They also:  Uncover the key principles guiding the adoption of new technology within the sector – and draw on best-practice examples to help institutions apply these principles to their own change and transformation journeys. Delve into the ways that organisations and leaders within other sectors, too, can apply these insights to drive their own effective digital transformation journeys, and build trust and access with their stakeholders and communities. 

Surfacing, engaging and retaining talent in a time of critical skills shortages is a front-of-mind concern for many of us. It certainly is for Dr Jo Ingold, who has dedicated decades of her life to researching employability and connecting employers with under-leveraged talent. And Jo isn’t stopping anytime soon. ​ In this episode of the Ready Podcast, we caught up with Jo for a timely discussion on how to cast your recruitment net wider, and adopt a more inclusive approach to talent acquisition. ​ Tune in for Jo’s thought-provoking and inspiring conversation with ReadyTech CEO Marc Washbourne. You’ll also learn: ​ Why ‘right now’ is the moment to rethink our approach to the makeup of our workforce ​ Why inclusive recruitment is good for business​ How we can think and work towards a better business and fairer society. 

Emma Weston’s journey to success wasn’t a linear one.   From her fresh-out-of-uni career in law, to her time as an agribusiness executive and director of various industry associations, Emma’s ‘patchwork quilt’ of experiences has led her to where she is today: staking her claim as CEO and co-founder of AgriDigital, one of Australia’s emerging agtech and fintech companies.   In this episode, Emma sits down with ReadyTech CEO Marc Washbourne to share her inspiring story, and explore how we can proactively:  Address the digital skills shortage Improve access to tech roles for women and regional talent Navigate disruption, and Rethink diversity. How can we build more mean meaningful careers, companies, and teams of people ready to innovate and make a dent in the world? Join Marc Washbourne with Emma Weston, as they show you how.  

Digital transformation still confuses leaders and organisations. But ask W3.Digital CEO Mark Cameron what it is and how to do it, and you can expect to strap in for an illuminating tour through decades of digital experience and evolution, to ‘connect the dots’ and turn a complex challenge into something simple you can act on in your organisation today.  And that’s just what you get in this episode of The Ready Podcast (formerly WorkED).  In this special Mini Digital Transformation Masterclass (based on the real Masterclass content Mark teaches on Digital Transformation Leadership at Deakin University), Mark helps us understand the what and why of transformation, what great strategy looks like, how to overcome investment hurdles and how to lead a program that actually works.  Stepping through three stages – before, during and after (spoiler alert: there is no real end point!) – Mark shares his learnings on the role of leadership and culture, how to navigate change management and overwhelm, whether you should choose incremental steps or a ‘big bang’ approach in 2022, what talent you’ll need along the way, and much more.  Why is the change we’re living through now ‘orders of magnitude’ greater than the GFC? Is successful transformation about technology or people? What does a digitally transformed future actually mean for leadership decision making and automation? And which does Mark think will promote genuine human flourishing – Facebook’s metaverse or Apple’s Siri?  Join our Mini Digital Transformation Masterclass – and let your transformation begin! 

Atlassian is Australia’s big global technology success story. It’s also a tech firm known for straight-talking leadership, going all-in on innovative approaches to work and backing its purpose and values with real-world actions that it says are now expected by Aussie employees and the wider community.   And it professes to do it all with no BS and a deep commitment to its purpose.   We sat down with Atlassian’s Director of Global Public Policy, David Masters to discuss the ways in which the tech titan is working with government to foster Australia’s tech future and talent pipelines, how vocational training can play a big role in meeting our digital skills needs and why, ultimately, purpose and culture are the secret sauce for every business.   In this episode Marc and David explore:   The big issues Atlassian is focusing on and vocal about, from global data regimes to local innovation and talent Why higher ed and vocational providers should focus on what they do best (and doubled down on digital skills) The natural disconnect between industry and government, how to find common ground and improve collaboration, and Why perseverance, culture and legacy are the keys to Atlassian’s growth and success.  

The digital world is transforming business, jobs and the skills required for learners across every industry.   With fast-paced change driven by continuous innovation and new technology, the TAFE and wider Vocational Education and Training (VET) industry is grappling with new ways to skill up flexible, contextualised and industry-ready talent.   We sat down with TAFE Directors Australia (TDA) CEO, Craig Robertson, who talks to his personal journey as part of the skills sector over 30 years, and his innate motivation to make a difference in the sector. In this episode, Marc and Craig explore:    Why the skills sector needs to adapt to a digitised world. The unique roles and differentiators of TAFE, private and global training providers. How training for adaptable and localised skills – not specific jobs – will future-proof Australia in a digital economy, and The challenge of delivering training for the ‘now’ versus preparing learners for the digital world.

Why should businesses make decisions holistically around technology? How has HR, CRM and ERP evolved? And where are they heading, especially with the sudden impact of COVID-19?   In the latest WorkED episode, Marc Washbourne sits down with vSure’s Managing Director and veteran of the business technology industry in Australia and New Zealand, Matt Paff to understand the latest developments in the business tech industry.   Renowned for his regular commentary on key business technology players and trends, Matt shares his insights from over two decades of experience across a vast array of tech projects, companies and roles.   The universe of business technology is a complex one, so it's essential that businesses know how to keep it simple when it matters most.