Sprint-Zero Podcast - Power Platform, AI, Low Code, Consultancy & Neurodiversity

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Summary

In this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Meg Smith, a prominent figure in the tech industry and co-founder of the 90 Day Mentoring Challenge. Meg shares her journey from advertising to tech, her advocacy for indigenous representation, and her insights on the role of AI in business. The conversation delves into the challenges of implementing AI solutions, the importance of security, and the need for organizations to focus on user experience. Meg also emphasizes the significance of defining personal success and aligning values in both personal and professional life. In this engaging conversation, Meg Smith, Mike Gowland, and Jon Russell explore various themes including societal expectations, work-life integration, the importance of humility and curiosity, intergenerational impact, authenticity in representation, and the value of embracing uncomfortable conversations. They discuss how personal values shape professional lives and the significance of being a good ancestor for future generations. The dialogue emphasizes the need for diverse voices in technology and the power of self-awareness in navigating complex discussions.

Takeaways

• The 90 Day Mentoring Challenge emphasizes personal investment for maximum benefit.
• Career transitions can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth.
• Indigenous representation in tech is crucial for economic cooperation.
• AI implementation requires a focus on user experience and security.
• Organizations must adapt to the changing landscape of technology.
• Defining personal values is essential for authentic success.
• Empowering individuals with AI tools can drive innovation.
• Listening to users is key to successful technology adoption.
• Freedom can take many forms in personal and professional life.
• Understanding one's values can guide decision-making and career paths. People often project their expectations onto others.
• Work-life integration allows for a more fulfilling life.
• Humility and curiosity can lead to better outcomes.
• Understanding intergenerational impact is crucial.
• Authenticity fosters value in representation.
• It's important to support diverse perspectives.
• Self-awareness can enhance group dynamics.
• Embracing discomfort can lead to growth.
• Curiosity can alleviate fear of irrelevance.
• Legacy is about being a good ancestor.

Special thanks to:

Meg Smith:

LinkedIn

Thanks to:
KenLikeFit for providing music for this episode - [Find out more about him and listen to his music here](https://linktr.ee/kenlikefit)

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Love you,
Mike Gowland,
Jon Russell

We're on Substack: Sprint-Zero’s Substack | Sprint-Zero Podcast | Substack
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In this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Suhail Sayed, a freelance principal consultant specialising in Microsoft 365 migrations. Suhail shares his diverse career journey, from working in retail and IT help desks to becoming a successful freelancer. He discusses the cultural nuances of career paths in India, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of focusing on sales for business growth. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of IT consulting and the significance of personal development through coaching.

Takeaways

• Suhail transitioned from retail to IT help desk roles.
• He emphasises the importance of aligning passion with financial stability.
• Cultural differences impact career opportunities in India.
• Freelancing allows for flexibility but comes with challenges.
• Sales activities yield the highest return on investment for business.
• Suhail's journey took about a decade to reach his current role.
• He started offering Microsoft Teams training as a side gig.
• The Indian market has a different approach to consulting compared to Western countries.
• Suhail's business model includes fractional consultants for specialised work.
• Coaching has been instrumental in Suhail's personal and professional growth.

Thanks to Suhail Sayed for joining us on this episode

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suhail-powerflow/

Thanks to:
KenLikeFit for providing music for this episode - [Find out more about him and listen to his music here](https://linktr.ee/kenlikefit)

====================

Love you,
Mike Gowland,
Jon Russell

We're on Substack: Sprint-Zero’s Substack | Sprint-Zero Podcast | Substack
Come and Join the Sprint Zero podcast on our very own Discord server!.

Send us a message!

Summary

In this episode of the Sprint Zero podcast, we welcome Andy Wingate, Business Central Practice Director at Venture. The conversation explores Andy's journey from an end-user role to consultancy, the significance of community in the Microsoft ecosystem, and the importance of soft skills in professional services. They discuss the features and growth of Microsoft Business Central, the challenges faced during implementations, and the value of continuous learning and networking in the tech industry. Andy shares insights on transitioning careers, the importance of embracing discomfort, and the future of AI in consultancy.

Takeaways

• Andy Wingate emphasizes the importance of community in the Microsoft ecosystem.
• Business Central is a growing ERP solution for SMBs, gaining traction in the market.
• Transitioning from an end-user role to consultancy can be a rewarding career move.
• Soft skills are crucial for success in consultancy and project management.
• Continuous learning through platforms like Microsoft Learn is essential for career growth.
• Networking and building relationships in the industry can open new opportunities.
• AI can be a valuable tool for productivity but should not replace human insight.
• Engaging in mini projects can enhance practical knowledge and interview readiness.
• The D365 space is experiencing a skill shortage, creating opportunities for new talent.
• Embracing discomfort can lead to personal and professional growth.

Special thanks to:

Andy Wingate

LinkedIn: Andrew Wingate | LinkedIn

Blog: Wingate365.com | MVP

Thanks to:
KenLikeFit for providing music for this episode - [Find out more about him and listen to his music here](https://linktr.ee/kenlikefit)

====================

Love you,
Mike Gowland,
Jon Russell

We're on Substack: Sprint-Zero’s Substack | Sprint-Zero Podcast | Substack
Come and Join the Sprint Zero podcast on our very own Discord server!.