Ready Next

AI can't build trust. Humans can.As leaders refocus on client relationships in 2025, this matters more than ever.In this episode, I sit down with Fiona Doyle, a senior sales and business development leader with 20+ years driving growth across tech, finance, and professional services, to explore how we navigate business in an AI-driven world without losing the human touch.We dive into:✨ Why AI can't build trust (and what that means for sales and client relationships)✨ The gap between being "data-driven" and actually driving measurable growth✨ How to leverage data for insights, not just metrics✨ The critical role of diversity in shaping AI's future✨ Why doubling down on human connection matters more than ever✨ Practical advice for business leaders feeling overwhelmed by technological changeKey takeaway: Technology should free us to spend MORE time on high-value relationships, not replace them. The winners will be those who blend AI efficiency with authentic human chemistry.Whether you're a young professional finding your path, a business leader navigating digital transformation, or someone passionate about mentorship and diversity in tech—this conversation has something for you.🎯 Start 2025 with clarity, curiosity, and confidence.

As we look toward the next decade of business, how will the intersection of technology and human connection evolve? I sit down with Yinka Adeyinka to forecast the future of Customer Experience. We delve into why CX must be viewed as a valuable long-term engagement rather than a transactional necessity.In this episode, we go beyond buzzwords to explore practical applications of CX in building resilient organisations. We highlight why leaders must develop strong listening skills and foster diverse perspectives to truly understand the future needs of their customers. Whether you are an experienced executive or an emerging leader, this conversation challenges you to look past today's stability and prepare for tomorrow's disruption.00:00 - Intro: Leading at the Edge of Change03:00 - Yinka’s Journey: From Accounting to CX09:30 - Qualities of CX Leaders15:29 - CX vs. Customer Service: Knowing the Difference18:45 - "Innovate or Die": Why Stability is Temporary24:38 - Complementing Stability and Innovation 28:52 - Three Kinds of People in Organisations39:47 - Identifying and Harnessing Emerging Technologies

What is the single most important trait for leading in an age of constant disruption? Mushambi's advice is to stay highly adaptable.In this episode of Ready/Next, we’re joined by Mushambi Mutuma—a tech leader, speaker, author and innovation expert trusted by the likes of Facebook, Salesforce, and Coca-Cola. Mushambi breaks down why adaptability is the ultimate competitive edge in an era of rapid change. We explore the five core traits of #adaptability every leader needs to cultivate; foresight, resilience, curiosity, agility, and care —and how to use them to stay relevant, outmaneuver giants, and thrive through disruption.Join the conversation and share with a leader building for tomorrow.#ReadyNext #Leadership #Adaptability #Innovation #FutureOfWork #DigitalTransformation #TechLeadership

What happens when artificial intelligence meets human creativity?In this episode of Ready Next, we’re joined by Adebola Olomo—a dynamic voice at the intersection of marketing, technology, and inclusion. Adebola is the founder and CEO of Deefrent Media, was formerly at Hubspot and is an ambassador for women in AI. She brings a global perspective on how Artificial Intelligence is transforming marketing as we know it.Together, we explore the powerful role of curiosity in navigating change, what marketers and creatives need to hold onto in an AI-driven world, and how businesses can adopt new technologies without losing their human touch.We also dive into the ethics of AI, the importance of representation in tech, and what it means to lead with both innovation and integrity. Whether you're a marketer, business leader, creative, or just curious about what's next—this conversation is for you.🎧 Tune in to hear:* How AI is reshaping marketing from the inside out* Why emotional intelligence and storytelling are more valuable than ever* Practical ways teams can start using AI to boost creativity and efficiencyJoin the conversation.Share with someone navigating the future of work and creativity.#ReadyNext #AIinMarketing #MarketingPodcast #CreativityAndAI #FutureOfWork #WomenInAI #DigitalMarketing #InclusionInTech00:00 Intro02:17 Adebola's Journey into Marketing and Technology03:01 How to Harness Curiosity04:10 AI's Impact on Marketing Strategy07:22 AI and Job Displacement08:38 The Human Element in AI-Driven Marketing13:56 Insights from Adebola's Books18:35 Diversity, Ethics, and Bias in AI25:32 The Importance of Representation in AI27:52 Craft and Skills in the Age of AI31:10 AI Adoption in Traditional Industries37:41 Practical AI Use Cases in Business40:43 The Future of AI in Marketing42:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us on this episode of Ready/Next as I speak with Sonal Saveni, a storyteller, artist, and the visionary behind The Table and Gallery - www.thetableandgallery.com. Nestled on the grounds of Yale University, Sonal believes that her practice is significantly enhanced by technology — helping her push the boundaries of storytelling, enhance audience engagement, and bring immersive experiences to life. Discover how Sonal blends culinary arts with immersive storytelling to create a unique space that fosters community, healing, and creativity. From her global heritage to the influence of her family's struggles and triumphs, learn about Sonal's journey and how she integrates technology and art to inspire and uplift others.#storytelling #immersiveexperience #technologyandart #artsandculture

In this episode, I examine the dynamic intersection of hospitality and technology with the brilliant Alan Newton, COO of Virtuall. Alan takes us on a compelling journey—from growing up in a working-class family in Liverpool, to carving out his entrepreneurial path. He shares how his early creative ventures led him to the world of hospitality, offering fresh perspectives on diversity, technology, and the transformative power of AI in the industry. Whether you're curious about how unforgettable experiences are created, you're an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply a tech enthusiast, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and game-changing insights. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation on shaping the future of hospitality and beyond. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more enleghtineng content! #Hospitality #Entrepreneurship #AI #Innovation #Diversity #Virtuall

I’m excited to be back on the Ready Next podcast after a short break. Join me on this episode as I talk to Femi Longe, co-founder at ccHub, one of Africa’s most impactful tech incubators. This is the first in a two-part series, where I focus on Femi’s personal journey and unpack the early steps and trajectory of ccHub. We talk about pivotal moments that shaped his remarkable career path and the significance of ccHub in fostering innovation and supporting tech entrepreneurs across Africa. We also cover his perspectives on the African startup ecosystem and the role of incubators in nurturing early-stage companies. Tune in to learn about remarkable experiences in the early days of ccHub, challenges overcome, and Femi's vision for the future of tech in Africa. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation! 🌟👨‍💻 #TechPioneer #AfricanTech #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #StartupEcosystem #startups #startupincubators #impact #transformation #youthempowerment #techinnovation #ccHub #Podcast 0:00 Intro 02:03 Leadership: Joining & Leading AIESEC 04:14 Early Steps in Entrepreneurship & Impact 06:18 The Young Foundation 09:21 The Value of Youth Engagement 14:16 The Diaspora: Tapping into Global Expertise 17:56 A Case Study of Nigerian Doctors 19:29 How ccHub Ignited the Nigerian Startup Ecosystem 26:25 Expanding the Startup Ecosystem in Africa 28:23 Fostering Innovation Across Africa 31:18 The Bees and The Trees: Turning Startups to Scaleups

Join me as I speak to Flavilla Fongang as she talks about building cultural capital in the Tech and Media industries. Discover how Flavilla's journey from Paris to London shaped her perspective and fuelled her passion for growth and exploration. Learn about Flavilla's initiative, BlackRise, dedicated to fostering excellence and connectivity within the Black community, and the impact it's making building inclusive communities and engaging allies to create a more diverse and supportive industry landscape.

In this 1st episode of the year, join me as I explore the latest development in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) – its move to physical devices. I review the recently announced Rabbit r1. This revolutionary new digital device, developed by Rabbit's research team in collaboration with Teenage Engineering, could be the leap forward we've been waiting for in AI. The Rabbit r1 is designed to simplify the mobile user experience, responding to complex natural language queries and handling tasks using AI. This episode discusses the goal behind the design, its functionality, its competition including criticisms and concerns, as well as public perception. Lastly, I examine the potential of this device replacing traditional mobile phones and how the future of mobile technology may look like with the rise of AI-powered devices. #ReadyNext #AIInnovation #RabbitR1Tech #ConversationalAI #DigitalInnovation #AI #mobile #DigitalHealth #Wellness 00:00 Intro 00:34 Unveiling the Rabbit r1 02:10 The Technology Behind Rabbit r1: Large Action Models 06:58 A New Competitive Landscape : AI-Driven Hardware 03:29 Can This Device Help Manage Screen Time & Burnout? 10:46 Rabbit r1's UX: Simplicity and Efficiency 05:48 Privacy and Ethical Concerns 06:39 Criticisms and Public Reception 07:23 The Future of AI Devices: Will They Replace Smartphones? 08:05 Conclusion: The Dawn of the AI Revolution

I am so excited to have my very first guest on the podcast! Fathima Beckmann is a seasoned senior executive, with a career spanning global giants like Paramount International, Microsoft, Huawei, Intel, and more, engages in an inspiring conversation about her journey and living a life of impact. Join me on this 3-part series as I learn about Fathima's transformative journey from humble beginnings, through the complex landscape of DEI and her experiences across creative industries, tech, and media and in multiple continents such as APAC, Africa, Europe, Middle East, North & South America. We discuss the challenges and opportunities for driving authentic change and impact in today's dynamic world. Fathima's wisdom and insights are certain to spark new insights on these critical topics. Don't miss out on this enlightening dialogue with a true DEI leader. Listen, subscribe and join the conversation! 🌍✨ #CoCreatingImpact #DiversityandInclusion #Leadership #DEIChampions#ChangeMakers #DEI #Leadership #Diversity #Equity #Inclusion #Podcast #impact #ImpactfulConversations