Bytes and Banter

SSW Spotlight: Kwik Trip | Built to Last: Creating a Sustainable Knowledge Culture (Session 403)

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 11:00:55 +0000

In this SSW Spotlight episode of Bytes and Banter, we feature the team from Kwik Trip to explore how they built a sustainable knowledge culture. Supporting over 900 retail locations and campus environments, they share how knowledge moved from a "nice to have" to a critical foundation for service consistency and operational excellence.

In this episode, we discuss how they:

- Train IT teams to create and use knowledge effectively

- Tailor content for different audiences—from call center to Level 3 engineers

- Embed knowledge into daily workflows so it becomes second nature

This isn’t a finished story—it’s an evolving journey. You’ll hear honest insights into what’s working, what’s changing, and how they keep knowledge fresh, relevant, and actionable.

You’ll learn:

- The role of a Knowledge Team in driving accountability and consistency

- Practical ways to keep knowledge current and embedded in daily operations

- How to train teams to write clear, audience-focused content

- How knowledge can improve both employee and customer experience

Whether you're building a knowledge program from scratch or refining an existing one, this episode offers real-world lessons you can apply right away.

About the SpeakersEmily Healy is the IT Retail Services Support Manager at Kwik Trip Inc., where she supports technology across more than 900 retail locations. With eight years of IT experience and five years at Kwik Trip, she brings a practical, people-first approach to systems supporting fuel, POS, and networking. Known for her collaborative mindset and creative problem-solving, Emily helps keep both technology and teams running smoothly. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling and working on construction projects with her family—and is a proud Detroit Lions fan (a bold choice for someone living in Wisconsin).

Ben Smaby is the IT Service Center Supervisor at Kwik Trip Inc., with over eight years at the organization and nearly two decades in IT. He leads the Corporate Service Center, overseeing Helpdesk, Desktop, Training, and Knowledge teams that support corporate offices, distribution centers, and production facilities. Ben is known for his thoughtful, grounded leadership style and focus on operational excellence. Outside of work, he enjoys gardening and spending time with his wife and two kids.

Layla Lunde

Layla Lunde is the ITSM Knowledge Process Owner at Kwik Trip Inc. With a background in education and a Master’s in Instruction, she is passionate about making knowledge accessible, actionable, and effective across teams. Outside of work, Layla is a parent advocate, board game enthusiast, and gamer.

👉 Join this session at Service & Support World (Session 403):

https://schedule.hdiconference.com/session/session-403-built-to-last-creating-a-sustainable-knowledge-culture-in-it-support/916948

👉 Learn more about Kwik Trip and their story:

https://kwiktrip.com/our-story

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HDI Local Chapters is an all volunteer not-for-profit that brings Technical Support professionals together to connect, share and discuss common challenges, and learn from industry innovators and each other --- https://www.hdilocalchapters.org

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer/Alternate Host:

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Humanising Service Management: Co-Creating Value in the Age of AI

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 11:00:27 +0000

Service Management is evolving, from frameworks and governance to human experience, allyship, and the ethical use of AI.

David Barrow is an ITIL 4 Master and Ambassador, author, and consultant with more than three decades of experience helping organizations make IT feel more human.

Throughout his career, David has focused on co-creating value — not just delivering services. He is passionate about allyship, collaboration, and building service management cultures that people genuinely want to be part of. His work challenges traditional, compliance-driven approaches and instead emphasizes shared ownership, meaningful engagement, and practical application of ITIL 4 principles in real-world environments.

David is the co-author of Allyship Actually – Why It’s We and Not Me, Co-Creating Value in Organizations with ITIL 4, and An Education in Service Management. His most personal work, OH SH!T, I’ve Got Bowel Cancer, reflects his openness about vulnerability, resilience, and the human experiences that shape leadership and perspective.

Whether advising organizations, speaking, or writing, David consistently brings one central belief to his work: service management works best when it works for people.

Connect with David on his LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidbarrowsolsevenstudio/

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer/Alternate Host: Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

The Lost Art of Growth: When you lead yourself, everything else follows

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 11:00:19 +0000

What does it really mean to grow—beyond titles, certifications, and promotions? In this episode of Bytes and Banter, Rocky sits down with Varun Sharma, Delivery Operations Manager at WBM, to unpack what he calls “the lost art of growth.”

Varun shares how a last‑minute interview opportunity changed his career, why attitude, effort, and accountability are the foundation of self-leadership, and how empowering service desk analysts to own their development led to 90%+ internal satisfaction and stronger customer partnerships. If you lead a team—or want to lead yourself better—this conversation will challenge how you think about growth, trust, and what’s really possible at the service desk.

Keep in touch with Varun on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/varunsharma2906/

Varun Sharma is a proven leader at WBM Technologies and a certified HDI Operations Manager with a background in mechanical engineering. His leadership has been central to WBM’s award‑winning HDI journey, including recognition for Best Customer Experience and Best Use of Technology.

As a Maxwell Leadership coach, trainer, and speaker, Varun specializes in personality and communication dynamics, helping teams work cohesively and navigate conflict with clarity and respect. His philosophy of “Learn, Live, and Lead” reflects his commitment to continuous growth and inspiring others to do the same.

In the past year, Varun has expanded his impact globally, speaking to organizations across North America, South America, and Asia. Through international workshops and training sessions, he equips professionals to elevate their teams and their leadership, mirroring the culture of excellence he’s helped build at WBM Technologies.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer/Alternate Host:

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Stop Shrinking: Take Up Space in Tech Support and Leadership

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 11:00:23 +0000

In this Bonus Episode of Bytes and Banter, Sarah Caminiti joins us for a real talk about confidence, culture, and what it means to take up space—especially in support roles where people are often measured by metrics, credentials, and impossible expectations.

We dig into why so many talented professionals hesitate to speak up, how fear-based workplaces train people to shrink, and what leaders can do differently to build teams that actually have room to breathe. Sarah shares her unconventional career path (no degree, a résumé that “doesn’t make sense,” and a leadership journey built on grit), along with practical ways to advocate for yourself—especially in interviews.

You’ll also hear a nuanced conversation about remote culture: what we lose when we never meet in person, why assumptions spiral in Slack-heavy environments, and how intentional connection can rebuild trust across teams.

Sarah Caminiti is a retention strategist and support leader known for bringing clarity, honesty, and operational depth to the customer experience world. As the creator of the CX Roundtable, she helps teams rethink how they build, lead, and scale support—grounding every conversation in real data, human behavior, and sustainable growth. Sarah’s work sits at the intersection of leadership, power dynamics, and customer loyalty, making her a sought-after voice for organizations ready to move beyond buzzwords and build systems that actually work.

Follow Sarah Caminiti on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-caminiti-5827b784/

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer/Alternate Host:

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Say Yes and See What Happens: Sarah Caminiti’s CX Leadership Journey

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 18:00:23 +0000

Discover how to reclaim your professional narrative and lead with genuine intention in a rapidly shifting tech landscape. In this episode, Rocky McGuire connects with Sarah Caminiti, Career Strategist and host of The Roundtable, to discuss her unexpected transition from "behind-the-scenes" helper to an influential public voice for ethical leadership and employee empowerment.

They dive into:

• The "Unplanned" Career Snowball: How a single, detailed community response transformed Sarah's career into a journey of panels and podcasting.

• Occupying Your Space: Understanding the psychological importance of "taking up space" and why shrinking yourself is a sad, limiting mindset.

• Ditching Fear-Based Tactics: A look at why leaders resort to ego and power dynamics, and how "invisible work" like advocacy can change team culture.

• Strategic Vulnerability: Why admitting you're "not at 100%" or don't have a degree can actually build deeper trust and safety within a team.

• The Interview as a Filter: How to use the hiring process to "interview them back" and why being 10% more bold helps avoid toxic workplace misalignments.

• Remote Work & The Human Connection: Why remote teams must be intentional about meeting in person to prevent colleagues from becoming just "icons in Slack."

• AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement: How the rise of AI makes human skills like strategic problem-solving and ethical implementation more valuable than ever.

Follow Sarah Caminiti on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-caminiti-5827b784/

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer/Alternate Host:

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

It Pays to Know: Landing Your Dream Job or Dream Hire in 2026 (Robert Half Salary Guide)

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 11:00:22 +0000

Unlock the insights you need to land your dream job—or your next great hire—in 2026.

In this episode, Rocky sits down with Cassandra Benner, Branch Director at Robert Half, to break down the brand-new Robert Half Salary Guide and what it reveals about hiring trends, high-demand roles, and how both candidates and employers can stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

They dive into:

• The most in-demand roles across AI, data, and emerging tech

• Why job titles vary—and why job descriptions matter more

• Salary transparency and how it builds trust with candidates

• Certifications that move the needle (AWS, Azure & more)

• Soft skills companies can’t find enough of: adaptability, EQ, problem-solving

• How contract talent keeps projects on track and fills critical skill gaps

• What employers must offer beyond pay—flexibility, balance, and wellness

Download the Robert Half 2026 Salary Guide - https://rh.roberthalf.com/ujmS4

About Our Guest

Cassandra Benner is a Branch Director at Robert Half Technology, specializing in recruitment strategy, business development, and leading high-performing teams. She’s known for creating standout experiences for clients and candidates and building strong, lasting partnerships. Cassandra develops innovative hiring solutions tailored to each organization’s unique needs. She holds a Bachelor of Applied Sciences from the University of Wisconsin–Whitewater and enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors with her dogs.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer/Alternate Host:

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Why CX Complexity Is Exploding (and What to Do About It)

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 18:30:13 +0000

Contact centers are more complex than ever—AI, cloud platforms, and remote work have created a perfect storm for customer experience leaders. In this episode, Luke Jamieson, CX evangelist and host of 2020Ish, joins us to unpack the collision of technology and experience.

Luke shares how CX observability can reveal the upstream technical issues that silently erode trust, introduces the “10 by 10 rule” for agent burnout, and makes the case for a universal CX risk score to help IT and CX leaders speak the same language.

He also reflects on his 25-year journey from the phones to the frontlines of innovation, and why treating both customers and employees well isn’t just good business—it’s the foundation for meaningful work.

🎙️ Topics include:

The new complexity of contact center operations

CX observability and the power of unified data

The 10 by 10 rule and its link to attrition

Why voice is becoming the new white-glove channel

Building bridges between IT and CX teams

#BytesAndBanter #CustomerExperience #ContactCenter #CXObservability #AICX #ServiceManagement #HDILocalChapters

https://www.lukejamieson.live/

Luke Jamieson is a globally recognized thought leader in customer experience (CX) and the future of work, known for his infectious energy, creativity, and deep industry expertise. With over 25 years in the contact center world, Luke brings a unique perspective that blends hands-on leadership experience with a technologist’s view of how AI and data are reshaping CX.

As a practitioner, he led the transformation of some of Australia’s top contact centers. Today, as a technologist and CX evangelist, he helps organizations bridge the gap between technology performance and human experience.

Luke is the co-host of the wildly popular CX game show Twenty20ish, a sought-after speaker, and a featured contributor to industry outlets including ICMI, The Wall Street Journal, and The Australian. He studied Design Thinking at Stanford’s d.school and is a certified LEGO® Serious Play® facilitator, combining innovation and play to drive meaningful change in the CX space.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

The Hidden Half of Tech: Rina Brahmbhatt on IT Service Management

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:19:12 +0000

What does it take to build a career in IT service management? For Rina Brahmbhatt, the journey began behind the counter at a post office in the UK and has grown into a global career as a consultant, trainer, and now author. In this conversation, she shares the twists and turns of her career path, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and what inspired her to write her upcoming book The ITSM Playbook®: Build a Future-Proof Tech Career in IT Service Management.

Rina opens up about her progression through roles in IT—from administrative support and resource management to service delivery and ITSM leadership—and how each experience shaped her approach to people, process, and technology. She reflects on the challenges of frequent job changes, the importance of relationship management, and the realization that ITSM is about far more than incident and change management—it’s about using tools and frameworks to deliver real value for customers and colleagues.

Her book The ITSM Playbook® offers practical guidance for anyone looking to enter or advance in IT service management. From navigating certifications and job searches to building relationships and managing career transitions, the book is designed as a roadmap for professionals at every stage. Rina also shares candid stories about balancing family, work, and writing deadlines, and how she structured her book to be both practical and approachable.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rinabrahmbhattbarot/

More info on Rina's book: www.itsmplaybook.com

About Rina Brahmbhatt

Rina Brahmbhatt is a certified ITIL® Master and Service Management Director with more than 17 years of experience leading global ITSM transformations and Agile service delivery initiatives. She specializes in aligning technology with business goals, simplifying complex challenges through human-centered design, and delivering measurable service improvements.

As a consultant, educator, and podcast host, Rina is passionate about mentoring teams and building cultures of excellence. Her expertise spans ServiceNow, organizational change, UX for IT, and executive training. Whether leading transformations or writing about the field, Rina is dedicated to making IT service management more accessible and impactful for professionals at all levels.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

The Great Hesitation: Navigating Today’s Tech Job Market

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 11:00:22 +0000

Our first repeat guest! Thomas Vick, Senior Regional Director at Robert Half, returns to Bytes and Banter with fresh insights on the tech job market and how companies can unlock the talent they already have. We explore the lingering effects of the Great Resignation, why employers and candidates remain cautious, and which skills—like data security and AI expertise—are most in demand.

Thomas shares how AI is reshaping roles, including the rise of governance and compliance positions in regulated industries, and why upskilling is critical to staying competitive. Plus, he gives us a preview of Robert Half’s upcoming Salary Guide, a must-read for anyone hiring or job hunting in tech.

🌐 Learn more at roberthalf.com.

Thomas Vick is the Senior Regional Director for Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm. Based in Chicago, he leads operations for the company’s technology, creative, and marketing talent and consulting solutions across Illinois, Tennessee, and Missouri.Since joining Robert Half in 2010, Thomas has held multiple leadership roles overseeing operations across the U.S. for several practice groups. With over 18 years in the staffing industry, he is recognized as a hiring expert and serves as a spokesperson for Robert Half, frequently quoted in media outlets on hiring trends and workplace topics.Thomas has been honored multiple times by Robert Half for his leadership and business growth. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Texas A&M University, serves as president of the HDI Chicagoland chapter, and is a member of the Executives’ Club of Chicago.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Letters to Our Younger Selves – Advice from 24 Tech Journeys

Wed, 06 Aug 2025 11:00:21 +0000

What would you tell your younger self at the start of your tech journey?

In this special 25th episode of Bytes and Banter, we reflect on the most powerful lessons shared across our first 24 episodes. From embracing failure to choosing the harder path, our past guests open up about the advice they wish they’d received earlier in life.

Whether it’s learning to ask for what you need, trusting your instincts, or letting go of limiting beliefs, this episode is full of real talk on growth, grit, and self-compassion—straight from the leaders, innovators, and storytellers who’ve lived it.

🎧 Catch up on our first 24 episodes for even more unfiltered stories from IT pros and tech leaders. Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and YouTube,or your favorite platform—and follow #BytesAndBanter for conversations that connect people, purpose, and tech.

Beyond Tickets: Creating Meaningful IT Experiences

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 11:00:25 +0000

In this episode of Bytes and Banter, Matt Beran joins us to talk about rethinking IT service management through a more human-centered, experimental lens. From his early days as a farm kid in Minnesota to becoming a consultant and podcast host, Matt shares why he chose service design over tech leadership—and why solving unique problems still excites him.

We dive into the emotional side of tech support, the limitations of surveys, and the real potential of AI in service management. Plus, Matt explains why IT needs to start listening to other departments and how being fearless (even if you fail) is key to building a meaningful career.

🎧 Want more from Matt? Check out https://mattberan.com

Matt has over 20 years of experience in Service Management. He has served in multiple roles, including positions on the service desk, as a consultant, and experience designer. His clients included enterprises of many sizes and industries.

Known for challenging industry norms and practical approaches to Service Management, Matt is now a Sr. Product Specialist at InvGate, a software company building better IT experiences.

He is also the host of Ticket Volume, a podcast powered by InvGate, where he discusses topics such as IT, ITSM, Asset Management, cybersecurity, governance, and career development, along with different guests. In addition, he is a highly-regarded speaker at conferences. His favorite topics introduce new ways of thinking about service experiences and improving team collaboration.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Energizing Tech Teams with Real Talk on Burnout, Leadership, and Human-Centered Service

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 11:00:24 +0000

In this episode of Bytes and Banter, Phil Gerbyshak joins us to talk about burnout, authenticity, and building a human-centered career in tech. From his early days as a book-loving teacher at heart to becoming a coach, speaker, and advocate for tech professionals, Phil shares lessons learned about navigating career pivots, recognizing burnout, and finding energy through self-reflection and connection.

We explore what it really means to lead with empathy, how to deepen professional relationships beyond hallway small talk, and why being human, helpful, and humble is more powerful than any new tool or trend. Plus, Phil reveals his go-to strategies for staying energized—and why naps, notebooks, and 3AM conversations might be the key to sustainable success.

🌐 Want more from Phil? Sign Up for his weekly writings at https://happyaf.substack.com and connect with him on LinkedIn.

Phil Gerbyshak is a high-energy speaker, trainer, and former tech leader who knows the real-world pressures of IT support—because he’s lived them. With two decades in technology, sales, and leadership, Phil now helps tech teams tackle burnout, boost engagement, and lead with empathy. He’s an award-winning speaker and author featured in USA Today, Forbes, and Inc., and brings relatable, real-talk insights to every room. Whether he’s talking help desks or human connection, Phil makes it practical, memorable—and actually fun.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Solving Tech Challenges with the Right Talent

Wed, 25 Jun 2025 11:00:30 +0000

In this episode of Bytes & Banter, we talk with Matt Deneroff, Vice President and Market Director at Robert Half, about one of today’s most pressing tech challenges: finding and developing the right talent. Drawing from Robert Half’s Building Future-Forward Tech Teams report, Matt shares insights on closing skills gaps, navigating AI and cybersecurity demands, and responding to the surge in ERP needs.

We dive into workforce strategies like refining job descriptions, upskilling, flexible staffing models, and leveraging consultants or hackathons to spark innovation. Tune in to hear how tech leaders are adapting—and what it takes to build a team that’s ready for what’s next.

Explore how Robert Half can help you build a future-ready tech team: https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/building-tech-teams?utm_medium=alliance&utm_source=external-link&utm_campaign=v2_all_thought-leadership_july-2025-hdi-bytes-and-banter-us_rht&utm_content=building-future-forward-tech-teams

Bio: Matt Deneroff is Market Director and Vice President of Technology & Digital at Robert Half, serving the DC Metro market. He leads both contract and permanent placement services across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, connecting top tech talent with forward-thinking organizations. With over a decade at Robert Half, Matt has held multiple leadership roles and earned national recognition for driving growth and performance. He holds a degree in Business Administration and Management from The Catholic University of America.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Associate Producer/Host - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Beyond Silos: Authentic Leadership in the Age of AI

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 11:00:26 +0000

In this episode of Bytes and Banter, Sarah Nicastro joins us to explore what authentic leadership looks like in an AI-driven world. From her unexpected journey into field service to becoming a principal evangelist at IFS, Sarah shares how the industry has evolved—from cost center to strategic asset—and what that means for leaders today. We talk curiosity, change leadership, and how to create cultures that truly value people. Plus, why staying neutral on AI is key to driving innovation without compromising your core values.

🌐 Want more insights on service transformation and leadership? Visit www.futureoffieldservice.com for articles, podcasts, and resources from Sarah Nicastro.

Sarah Nicastro is the driving force behind Future of Field Service as Founder & Editor in Chief, Host of the UNSCRIPTED podcast, and Principal Evangelist at IFS. Through insightful articles and engaging interviews with industry giants, Sarah distils real-world perspectives into actionable insights. Renowned as a global keynote speaker, she inspires audiences to navigate modern business complexities and drive transformative change. With a unique combination of community-sourced best practices and her own thought leadership, Sarah empowers service leaders to embrace innovation and chart their course toward sustainable success. Sarah lives in Erie, Pennsylvania with her husband Eric; two sons, Evan and Ellis; and two cats, Atticus and Popcorn. To decompress, she likes to visit Lake Erie and search for beach glass. She’s an avid reader, a die-hard fan of hip-hop, is obsessed with ice cream, and Pelotons daily.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Five Quick Fixes That Will Make Your Knowledgebase Articles More Useful

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 11:00:21 +0000

In this episode of Bytes and Banter, writing expert Leslie O’Flahavan joins us to unpack why great writing is one of the most powerful—and overlooked—tools in tech support. From simple word swaps to game-changing formatting tips, Leslie shares practical ways support teams can write knowledge base content that’s clear, useful, and ready for both humans and AI. If you want your support docs to drive better self-service, reduce ticket volume, and actually help people solve problems—this one’s for you.

✍️ Want to write content people (and AI) can actually use? Visit ewriteonline.com and follow Leslie on LinkedIn for tools, tips, and real-time writing makeovers.

Leslie O’Flahavan has helped thousands of people learn to write well for online readers. As the founder of E-Write, she delivers custom writing workshops for contact center agents, social media teams, and technical staff. Leslie’s expertise spans email, chat, social media, and self-service knowledge articles—and she’s helped major global brands overhaul their entire customer service writing approach. A recognized leader in the space, Leslie was named one of ICMI’s “Top 25 Thought Leaders” in 2024 and has also been featured by Klaus, Netomi, and ProcedureFlow as one of the most influential voices in customer experience. She’s a LinkedIn Learning author of five popular courses and co-author of Clear, Correct, Concise E-Mail: A Writing Workbook for Customer Service Agents.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Workplace Harmony: Nurturing Community Through IT and CX

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:00:27 +0000

In this episode of Bytes and Banter, Nate Brown—Head of Education and Enablement at Metric Sherpa and co-founder of CX Accelerator—joins us to explore what it really takes to build a thriving workplace culture.

From selling postage meters to leading CX transformations, Nate reflects on the mentors, lessons, and frameworks that shaped his journey. At the center of the conversation is the idea of the "servant challenger": a leadership mindset that blends empathy with bold action to drive meaningful change.

We discuss the power of intrinsic motivation, how to measure it using tools like Total Motivation, and why aligning employee values with your brand promise is critical. Nate also shares real-world examples—from upskilling efforts at Warby Parker to leadership models from Beth Jenkins and Tanya Alvarez—showing how organizations can foster innovation and high performance by equipping people with purpose, support, and the right tools.

You’ll hear insights on balancing efficiency with human connection, building community through internal feedback loops, and why celebrating small wins can lead to big gains in team engagement.

Whether you're leading a team or looking to inspire one, this episode is full of fresh ideas and actionable strategies to elevate your workplace culture.

🔗 Learn more about the CX Accelerator community: https://cxaccelerator.com/community

Guest Bio – Nate Brown

Nate Brown is passionate about two things: customer experience and community—and he’s built his career at the intersection of both. He co-founded CX Accelerator in 2018, a vibrant online community of over 4,000 CX professionals supporting one another in building better experiences and stronger careers. Nate also leads Advisory Services at Metric Sherpa, helping organizations transform their customer interactions through strategy, alignment, and culture change.

As a CX executive and consultant, Nate has built contact centers from the ground up, led large-scale service transformations, and worked with organizations across industries including gaming, SaaS, retail, and healthcare—supporting brands like CHEP, WB Games, UL, Bosch, and BMI.

He’s the author of The Ultimate CX Primer, and has been recognized globally as a top CX thought leader by ICMI, MartechVibe, Exceeders, and Netomi. In 2023, Kustomer named him the most impactful influencer in the CX landscape.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

The #1 Skill Set of the Future: It's not AI...it's people skills

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 11:00:22 +0000

Jo McRell is the author of "Making Work Work for You" and an innovative employee experience strategist. She’s helped organizations like Google, Intuit, Meta and Gusto better empower their employees. Through her work and the AI ERA Community she co-founded, Jo equips employees and leaders with the tools to navigate disruptions in employee culture, tech, and work models so they can thrive in the future of work.

www.jomcrell.com

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Demand for Skilled Talent: Overcoming the Skills Gap and Unlocking Opportunities

Thu, 13 Mar 2025 11:00:25 +0000

In this episode, we explore the growing tech skills gap and how it creates both challenges and opportunities for organizations and professionals. With high demand for expertise in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies, companies are facing barriers like tech debt and skill shortages. We’ll discuss how in-demand skills can help professionals stand out, while tech leaders navigate priorities like AI governance, security, and modernization. Plus, we’ll highlight the increasing need for contract workers to fill critical roles and ways to future-proof your team in this competitive landscape. Featuring brand new data from the Robert Half Demand for Skilled Talent report, join us as we provide fresh insights into the tech talent shortage and its impact.

The Demand for Skilled Talent report can be accessed here:

Tech specific: 2025 Tech and IT Job Trends https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/salary-hiring-trends/demand-for-skilled-talent/tech-it

Full report: Employment Trends in 2025: Demand for Skilled Talent https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/salary-hiring-trends/demand-for-skilled-talent

Guest Bio - George Clauser is AVP & Branch Director at global talent solutions firm, Robert Half. A staffing veteran with nearly a decade of experience, George has successfully assisted companies with contract and contract-to-hire candidates and consultants for projects ranging from web development and multiplatform systems integration to network security and technical support. Concurrently, George serves as a board member for the HDI Chicagoland chapter. George holds a BA in Political Science from the University of Illinois Chicago and attended Valparaiso University School of Law.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Go Behind the Curtain of Bytes and Banter!

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 18:49:40 +0000

Ever wondered what it takes to bring a tech podcast to life? In Episode 16, we pull back the curtain for an exclusive interview with the producers of Bytes and Banter! Get a behind-the-scenes look at the vision, challenges, and magic that make each episode happen.

HDI Local Chapters, a non-profit volunteer organization, is committed to empowering the tech community through knowledge and innovation. Join us as we explore the journey of building a platform for thought-provoking conversations in IT Support, Service Management, and beyond.

🔊 Tune in and discover the stories behind the stories! #BytesAndBanter #TechPodcast #BehindTheScenes

Watch the episodes on YouTube: Bytes and Banter

Second Paragraph: Guest Biography

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

The Cybersecurity Shift: Transforming Customer Service Skills into Security Expertise

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 15:14:05 +0000

Kevin Apolinario is an experienced IT professional with over 12 years of customer service experience and eight years in IT support and system administration. Specializing in cybersecurity and blue team tools such as Microsoft Defender and Microsoft Sentinel, he serves as an Information Technology Security Specialist at Ollion, where he focuses on deploying endpoint security solutions and managing identity and access controls. His expertise also includes implementing antivirus solutions and conducting vulnerability scans to strengthen cybersecurity defenses.

Beyond his technical role, Kevin is a dedicated technical trainer and speaker committed to mentoring aspiring IT professionals. Through his YouTube channel, Kevtech IT Support, and various training platforms, he has helped over 24,000 individuals secure IT support roles. His instructional content covers topics such as CompTIA A+, Network+, entry-level helpdesk skills, customer service, and resume writing. Kevin has shared his insights at organizations including Microsoft, Jobtrain, Upwardly Global, Spiceworks, HDI, and Merit America. Passionate about guiding individuals into the tech industry through non-traditional pathways, he continues to inspire and educate the next generation of IT professionals.

Kevin Website https://www.kevtechitsupport.com/

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Convergence: Bridging Two Worlds with Experience Management

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 11:00:24 +0000

Doug Rabold, North America XLA Institute Evangelist and long-time Disney enthusiast, discusses his career pivot from Sales to IT and how experience management is reshaping IT Service Management. He shares insights on shifting Service Desks from reactive to proactive support, delivering exceptional experiences, and the growing impact of XLAs in North America. Doug also previews the future of experience management and its role in elevating IT leadership in 2025.

XLA Institute https://www.linkedin.com/company/xla-institute/

Doug Rabold is a committed CX and ITSM Leader who has led high-performing global teams of up to 350 resources and managed a portfolio of contracts exceeding $60M annual revenue. He is an acknowledged Customer Experience and Employee Experience expert who focuses on developing talent to deliver exceptional support.

Doug attended University of Illinois, holds numerous certifications and is a Certified Instructor. He has extensive public speaking experience, is a frequent podcast guest, and a contributing author to several publications. Doug is the XLA Institute North America Evangelist, Past-Chairman of the HDI Board of Directors, sits on the ITAM Forum Strategic Advisory Council and AOTMP Advisory Council.

Doug was named 2021 AOTMP IT Management Professional of the Year, was a finalist for 2021 HDI Best Service and Support Manager and was selected as People’s Choice Winner for 2018 HDI Manager of the Year. He was named an HDI Top 25 ITSM Thought Leader 2022-24. Doug was selected by Customer Experience Magazine as a Top 25 CXMStar Influencer in 2023-24. He was a 2023 Top 50 CX Influencer by CX Network, AOTMP University Influencer, and MattsenKumar CX Thought Leader. He was recently named a 2024 ICMI Top 25 CX Thought Leader

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Rebooting Leadership: Preventing Burnout and Elevating Tech Leaders with Lisa Duerre

Thu, 16 Jan 2025 13:13:17 +0000

Lisa Duerre is the CEO & Co-Founder of RLD Group, a Collective of Leadership Development Coaching and Consulting Experts helping Tech Companies take culture transformation out of the clouds, banish burnout, and drive bottom-line results by co-creating Strengths-Based Leadership Development Solutions.

RLD Group is a WBENC Certified (WBE, WSOB) Leadership Consulting Firm with expertise in HR strategy and organizational design, developing leadership pipelines, talent retention, burnout prevention, and team performance in the complex hybrid-work world for Leaders in Tech.

Lisa spent 20+ years in Silicon Valley as a top-level executive inside Fortune 500 tech companies. Now, she leverages her corporate experience and gift of facilitation and leadership development to help organizations to put the heart of the human back in Tech and create the FIRM Leaders of tomorrow. Lisa’s insights have been featured by leading NBC, CBS, ABC, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Entrepreneur, WomLead Magazine, FeedSpot, Thrive Global, Authority Magazine, Romper, The Mercury News, and more.

Lisa is also the host of Ctrl+Alt+Delete with Lisa Duerre™ Podcast, rated in the top 10 Podcasts on Technical Leadership by FeedSpot - a gold mine of no-nonsense conversations between Lisa and top leadership experts & business executives across all industries to equip leaders in tech with practical tools to help them thrive at work and in life.

Lisa is actively raising awareness for Lipedema as she discusses her journey of discovering that she’s been living with this disease, a misunderstood and underdiagnosed condition affecting as many as 1 in 11 women.

When she’s not living the busy CEO life of leading RLD Group or paving the way for leaders in tech, Lisa loves exploring her home area of Portland, Oregon with her co-founder & husband, Randy, their daughter Emily, and their fun-loving Cavapoo, Yogi.

Media Kit: https://rldgroupllc.com/media-kit-lisa-duerre

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Ramen or Rent? Fueling a Career You’ll Never Regret

Thu, 05 Dec 2024 11:00:22 +0000

Visit Splashtop Website - https://www.splashtop.com/home

Stephen Ng is an accomplished professional with extensive experience in building and leading high-performing organizations across Service Delivery, Support, Call Centers, Technical Support Escalations, and Critical Account Management. He has a strong background in managing technical support operations domestically and internationally, leveraging existing resources and driving transformative changes to reduce costs, enhance revenue, and meet targeted margin goals.

Stephen is a results-oriented, process-driven leader known for developing actionable plans that meet service delivery performance commitments, ensure customer satisfaction, and contribute to overall company success.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

A Look Inside the Salary Guide: 2025 Hiring and Compensation Trends from Robert Half

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 11:00:25 +0000

In episode 11, Nicole Sims from Robert Half helps us unpack the 2025 Salary Guide and the latest trends shaping the tech industry. We discuss the “Great Stay” phenomenon, strategies employers use to attract and retain talent, and the growing demand for skills like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity. Nicole highlights the value of upskilling, flexible staffing solutions, and timely hiring decisions to address skill gaps. She also shares insights from the Robert Half eBook, “Building Future-Forward Tech Teams,” and encourages professionals to prioritize progress over perfection Tune in for practical advice and a deep dive into the evolving world of tech hiring and retention.

Get the insights that are helping technology employers and job seekers make smarter salary decisions.

https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/salary-guide/technology?utm_source=alliance&utm_medium=external-link&utm_campaign=v2_all_thought-leadership_salary-guide-2025_rht&utm_content=hdi-sg25-website-article-teaser

Nicole Sims is the Senior Regional Director for Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions and consulting firm. In this role, she oversees operations for the company’s technology talent solutions across the greater Dallas region. With over 18 years of industry experience, Nicole is considered a hiring expert and frequently shares insights on the trends affecting the employment market and the workplace.

Nicole is actively involved in several tech industry-focused organizations. She serves as the Vice President of Membership for the DFW Help Desk Institute (HDI) chapter and is also a member of Tech Titans.

A strong believer in community service, Nicole leads her team to participate in Robert Half’s community impact initiatives, partnering with local nonprofits such as Genesis Women’s Shelter of Dallas and the North Texas SPCA.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

No Code Yellow Pages to Gen AI

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 22:01:04 +0000

In Episode 10 of Bytes and Banter, Tim Lawes shares his career journey from selling Yellow Pages to working in the world of enterprise AI. Tim reflects on his experiences in IT service management, including a military contract and managing a service desk, and emphasizes the importance of empathy and building strong relationships in sales. He also talks about his transition to Symphony.AI and the impact of innovative technology on his career. Tune in for a conversation about personal growth, adaptability, and the role of relationships in business success.

https://www.symphonyai.com/

Tim is Sr. Director of Sales at SymphonyAI. He has been in the ITSM industry for 15+ years having worked on Implementation, post-sales & pre-sales teams.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-lawes-81273110b/

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Collen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

The State of Tech Support with HDI Principal Analyst Daniel Thomas

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 10:00:16 +0000

In this episode host Rocky McGuire sits down with Daniel Thomas, Principal Analyst at Informa Tech, to explore the latest findings from the HDI State of Tech Support report. We dive into the key trends shaping the future of tech support, from hybrid work challenges to the skills that matter most for today’s IT professionals. Discover how AI is enhancing—not replacing—human roles, and how the shift from SLAs to XLAs is putting customer experience at the forefront. Tune in for a deep dive into how continuous learning, customer-centricity, and business alignment are evolving in today’s IT landscape.

Request Your Free Research Report Now: "The State of Technical Support in 2024"

https://hdi-resources.thinkhdi.com/free/w_hdia66/

Guest Biography: Daniel Thomas is Principal Analyst of Enterprise IT at Informa Tech, producing thought leadership content for the HDI and ICMI communities. He has more than a decade of experience researching and writing on the most critical topics of interest for the technology sector, including cybersecurity, AI, data analytics, risk and privacy, networking and digital security policies. He previously served as a Senior Analyst for CyberRisk Alliance and as the Director of Research for GovExec Media in Washington, D.C

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Your Career Toolkit: Job Search Strategies from Robert Half

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:00:13 +0000

Your Career Toolkit: Job Search Strategies from Robert Half

CTA: Job Search Landscape 2024: Planning Your Next Career Move https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/job-market-outlook?utm_source=alliance&utm_medium=external-link&utm_campaign=v2_all_thought-leadership_all_rht&utm_content=2024-q3-hdi-podcast

When was the last time you truly reflected on your career? Whether you’re actively looking for a new job or are planning to take that step in the near future, this podcast episode will address the current labor market, workers’ reasons for seeking a new role and how to know when it’s time to make a change. It also offers tips for landing a new job and resources to help you get the most out of your job search.

About Doug Bell

With 8 years of experience in the recruiting space, Doug currently leads the technology recruiting efforts for Robert Half in the Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina market. As lead recruiter for the Infrastructure & Operations team, he focuses on sourcing top talent for a variety of positions, including help desk analysts, project managers, systems administrators, systems engineers, security engineers, security analysts, network administrators, network engineers, IT directors, solutions consultants, cloud engineers, and DevOps engineers, among others. Doug is the secretary for the Triangle chapter of HDI.

Outside of work, Doug enjoys playing soccer and basketball, visiting the beach, and spending time with his wife and their Bracco Italiano puppy, Ødegaard.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Colleen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Associate Producer - Daniel Guinto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-guinto-7b723630/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Dan Turchin of PeopleReign

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 06:00:21 +0000

Dan Turchin is the CEO and Founder of PeopleReign, the leading AI platform for IT and HR employee service automation. He is a member of the Forbes Technology Council and has hosted over 300 episodes of the popular “AI and the Future of Work” podcast which has a community of more than a million listeners.

Prior to PeopleReign, Dan was the CEO of AIOps leader InsightFinder. Previously, he co-founded Astound, an AI-first enterprise platform for HR and IT, and was Vice President of Product at DevOps leader BigPanda, Chief Product Officer at security analytics company AccelOps (now Fortinet), and a Senior Director of Product Strategy at ServiceNow.

He also served as a founding board member at Rhomobile prior to its acquisition by Motorola and currently serves on the board of Auger, the open source automated machine learning framework.

In 2000, Dan co-founded Aeroprise and served as CEO until it was acquired in 2010 by BMC Software. He is an active angel investor and startup advisor with a portfolio of over 30 companies.

Dan's passionate about building great teams that build great products that solve hard problems that change lives. He’s a big fan of Asimov, Dr. Seuss, youth soccer, adventure sports, and Tynker.

Dan has BS and BA degrees from Stanford University. Follow him on https://x.com/dturchin

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Collen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

From Marine to Mentor: Building Resilience with Tony North

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 15:16:28 +0000

Tony North, a 26-year technology industry veteran, shares his incredible journey from being an adopted child to a Marine Corps veteran to a tech professional. Tony and host Rocky McGuire share personal stories of resilience and growth, shining a light on the power of mentorship. The discussion ranges from the evolution of tech teams to boosting customer experiences with self-help portals and automation, to tackling the challenges of remote work. This episode is packed with insights to help you dream big and lead your team to success. Don’t miss it!

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Collen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Overcoming Tech Debt: Building Future-Forward Teams with Robert Half

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 21:32:27 +0000

With digitization, cloud migration and a flood of AI-related tools emerging onto the scene, many businesses are trying to eliminate their tech debt. In addition, the tech skills gaps are widening. This complicates an already complex array of ever-evolving business priorities for technology leaders — and threatens their teams’ ability to complete critical projects and meet long-term goals. Tune into an insightful discussion between Thomas Vick, senior regional director, from Robert Half and Rock McGuire about potential impacts of these skills gaps, as well as strategies for overcoming them and building future-focused tech teams.

Get the e-book: Building Future-Forward Tech Teams - https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/building-tech-teams?utm_source=alliance&utm_medium=external-link&utm_campaign=v2_all_thought-leadership_tech-campaign-2024_rht&utm_content=2024-q2-hdi-podcast

Thomas Vick is the senior regional director for Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm. Based in Chicago, he leads operations for the company’s technology, creative and marketing talent and consulting solutions across Illinois, Tennessee and Missouri. Thomas joined Robert Half in 2010 and has held various leadership roles overseeing operations across the U.S. for several practice groups. With over 17 years of experience in the staffing industry, Thomas is considered a hiring expert and serves as a spokesperson for Robert Half. He is frequently quoted in various media outlets on hiring trends and workplace topics. Thomas has been recognized multiple times by Robert Half for his leadership and growth of the business. He holds his bachelor’s in business management from Texas A&M University and is currently a member of the Executives Club of Chicago.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Collen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Woman in Tech: Patrycja Sobera's Rise from Iron Curtain to Global Executive

Wed, 29 May 2024 20:48:07 +0000

Growing up in Poland, under the Iron Curtain, living through martial law and once a 13 year old girl, only able to speak Polish and Russian, with a dream of the world outside of the curtain. Patrycja went on to gain a Masters in teaching and foreign languages, ultimately, leading her to tech.

Patrycja fell in love with the tech world while leaning into pivotal moments coming in the least expected situations while learning to step out of the comfort zone. Patrycja now leads a HDI certified industry recognized Digital Workplace organization as Global Vice President.

Patrycja is a recognized thought leader, ISG Digital Titan Award Winner, DEI Champion and CX Cheerleader. She pushes the envelope of "What's possible", innovating the way the digital workplace can make a tangible impact on business outcomes and the people who need tech to enable them to do just that.

#womenintech #techleadership #ironcurtain #diversityintech

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Collen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

Kirk Weisler: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome & Choosing Hard

Thu, 09 May 2024 06:00:15 +0000

With over eighteen years of executive coaching, speaking, research, and professional experience, Kirk’s perspective is simple and unpretentious and his suggestions are applicable and undiluted. Kirk understands that your work life is more than a commute and a paycheck. You will spend most of your conscious week at work, thinking about work, or driving to work. Therefore Kirk believes in seeing your work life as your life’s work (outside of your home and family). With that in mind, how can you make your life’s work more meaningful, fulfilling, and rewarding?

IT Professionals have awarded Kirk with “The Speaker of Highest Merit Award” and organizations tweet him as the “People Whisperer” for his exceptional way of connecting with people individually and collectively wherever he goes. Kirk is known for his ability to share personal life stories, converse with his audience, and offer coaching that builds trust and inspires action.

Kirk is currently the Chief Morale Officer for companies and organizations around the globe. He offers coaching, keynote addresses, and workshops for companies of all services and sizes. Kirk is a past leader of the National Speakers Association, a master team builder, and a professional storyteller. He has been a part of 7 start ups, 4 of which were widely successful. One of these startups created over 1,000 jobs for aspiring IT professionals.

One hundred percent of Kirk’s consulting and speaking engagements have come from word-of-mouth-referrals from delighted clients and customers. In 2014 Kirk was invited to give over 50 presentations on leadership in other countries, visiting every continent. He continues to work with the best and brightest teams from dude ranches to medical institutions such as MAYO and John Hopkins to help them on their journey of building a more engaged and positive culture.

Kirk’s book “The Dog Poop Initiative” has sold over 80,000 copies. It has been translated into German, Spanish, and Hebrew. While this book is written for all ages and can be found in many public school libraries, the #1 buyer of the book is Boeing Aircraft who use it for their Six Sigma Lean program. Managers often use this book for their morning huddles or weekly kick-off meetings. Kirk’s second book “The Cookie Thief” is another metaphorical story that teaches a powerful lesson. Kirk’s popular T4D (Thought for the Day) blog reaches thousands of individuals on a weekly basis. He is also featured in the book “Speaking on Success” with other famous authors such as Stephen Covey.

Some of Kirk’s successes include: DELTA, Yum!, General Mills, America Express, FedEx, Coca-Cola, Bank of America, Enfamil, ChemDry, Johns Hopkins, Emory University, Anthem, BlueCross, Cargill, Discover Network, Carestream Dental, ALPAC, CUNA, Panasonic, Altra, Pink Elephant, HDI, and AT&T to name a few.

Prior to Kirk’s career as a CMO and professional speaker, he served in the 19th Special Forces and as a US Army Ranger. Kirk resides in Arizona with his wife and six children.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Executive Producer: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Associate Producer: Collen Rush - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleen-rush-3603241/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: https://www.PodTechs.com

The Demand for Skill and Talent: Insights from Robert Half

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 19:18:28 +0000

Let’s discuss the challenges organizations face when contemplating hiring full-time process engineers, the attractiveness of larger paychecks, the trend towards hybrid work environments, and strategies to invest in and retain talent.

Special guest Michelle Perella provides insights from Robert Half's "Demand for Skill and Talent Report," a valuable resource for both job seekers and hiring managers in the technology sector. Michelle, serving as the branch director for the technology practice in Pittsburgh, shares that this biannual report offers an overview of technology labor market and employment trends across the United States, including data that aids in hiring decisions. The report especially focuses on roles in cybersecurity, AI, machine learning, automation, cloud initiatives, and technology modernization, highlighting a significant demand for leadership in these areas to drive digital strategy and modernization efforts.

The episode touches upon the surprising number of open roles in specific technology sectors and discusses how companies' focus on various technological initiatives drives the demand for skilled talent. The need for leadership to implement digital strategies and modernize technology infrastructure is identified as a key factor behind the creation of executive and leadership roles within organizations.

Cracking the Code with the 2024 Salary Guide From Robert Half

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 22:23:06 +0000

Whether you need to recruit technology professionals for your team or you want to find a job in tech, Robert Half’s Salary Guide helps you understand what to expect as you navigate the hiring market.

The guide explores the jobs in greatest demand in technology, what firms are doing to attract and keep talent, and how much professionals can earn in 2024.

Learn more about the data and insights in the Salary Guide and how to use them in this blog post from Robert Half --- https://www.roberthalf.com/us/en/insights/research/how-robert-halfs-salary-guide-helps-you-to-be-right-on-the-money

Jessica Green is a Practice Director with Robert Half, the world’s first and largest specialized talent solutions firm. She oversees the technology contract practice group within the Twin Cities market. Jessica was born and raised in Minneapolis, MN and recently celebrated her 13-year anniversary with Robert Half. She proudly lives there today with her husband, two kids, and two bulldogs. Throughout her career at Robert Half, she has worn many hats, including business development, sales leadership, and training. She prides herself on being an industry expert when it comes to staffing, hiring, and consulting in the technology space. Jessica co-founded and co-chairs Robert Half’s Minnesota-based community involvement committee where she organizes volunteer opportunities for internal employees to give back regularly. In addition, she co-founded Robert Half’s “Be the Change” employee networking group to hold open conversations about social justice, equality, and allyship at work and in our communities. She has served on the board for HDI Minnesota over the last 12 years, helping to raise money for the chapter, along with planning and hosting local events. Jessica is passionate about networking, community involvement, and relationship building, especially amongst the ever-changing multi-generational workforce.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Marketing Coordinator: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

Post-Production: Rae-Ann C.

#hdilocalchapters

Rocky and Terri Preview What's to Come!

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 18:13:22 +0000

Rocky McGuire and Terri Oropeza talk about what to expect in the transformation from Livestream to Bytes and Banter.

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Bytes and Banter Podcast Team

Creative Producer/Host: Rocky McGuire - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rockymcguire/

Marketing Coordinator: Terri Oropeza - https://www.linkedin.com/in/toropeza/

Technical Producer: Dustin Canter - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustincanter/

Podcast Operating System: https://www.PodTechs.com

#hdilocalchapters