The Optimal Hype Show (formerly The QA Hype Show)

Gary Shannon

Welcome to The Optimal Hype Show Community! - (formerly The QA Hype Show) Your dedicated space to connect, engage, and grow in the world of Quality Engineering, Engineering, and Tech. The Optimal Hype Show Evolving from The QA Hype Show, we’ve expanded our focus beyond QA into the full spectrum of QA/QE, Engineering and AI - still bringing the same high‑energy conversations you know and love, now under the Optimal banner. Join the movement and help redefine quality, innovation, and collaboration, one episode at a time. What’s New in 2025 Launching early in 2025, The Optimal Hype Show delivers insightful conversations with some of the brightest and most diverse minds in the industry. With a stellar line‑up of confirmed speakers, expect expert insights, actionable strategies, and the latest innovations in tech - no fluff, no BS, just straight‑talking, real‑world discussions. Our Purpose We exist to: Connect and empower the global QE, Engineering, and wider tech community. Give you a voice by conducting polls and gathering your questions for our guests. Build towards live sessions for more dynamic and interactive experiences. Celebrate and promote diversity, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, this group is your hub for learning, networking, and shaping the future of tech together.

Épisodes

  1. 21 AOÛT

    She Codes Quality: Women in Tech Speak Up | Gary Shannon & Nataliia Burmei | Ep.9

    She Codes Quality: Women in Tech Speak Up | With Nataliia Burmei  This one’s special - I sat down with the amazing Nataliia Burmei to talk all things Women in Tech, leadership, and the ongoing shift from QA to QE. We go in on how the role of QA has evolved into something way more strategic — it’s not just about testing anymore. It’s coaching dev teams, embedding quality from day one, driving automation, and influencing delivery culture. Nataliia’s been at the forefront of that change - building frameworks, mentoring engineers, and actually shifting the needle where it counts. And of course, we also get into representation - the real talk around what it’s like to be a woman in this space, what’s still broken, and what needs to happen next. Proper honest convo with someone who walks the walk. No fluff. Just real insights, lived experience, and some top-tier takeaways for anyone in tech - hiring, testing, leading, or just figuring it all out. 🩵 This one’s in the library now - go have a listen. 🎧 Now streaming on all platforms.   A breakdown of the show complete with time markers for the shufflers:   🕒 0:00 – Introduction to Nataliia, QE and Personal Journeys  🕒 05:48 – The shift from QE to QE: Understanding The Transformation  🕒 11:26 – Embedding Quality Mindset in Teams  🕒 16:30 – Advice for Testers Transitioning to QE Roles  🕒 17:43 – Championing Women In Tech: A Personal Perspective  🕒 31:15 – Encouraging Women in Leadership 🕒 32:39 – The Optimal Hype Quick Fire Q&A Session  🕒 35:04 – Wrap & Key Takeaways     Your support as always means the world to me – thank you for being part of this journey! 🙌 See you next time for more QE, Engineering, AI and Tech insights and community stories.

    38 min
  2. 𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗿𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗧

    7 AOÛT

    𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗿𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗧

    🎙️ "𝗥𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗧𝗮𝗹𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗿𝘂𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗢𝘂𝘁 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗪𝗶𝗹𝗱 𝗧𝗲𝗰𝗵 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗸𝗲𝘁"" The latest Talent Sessions Bytesize episode is now live - and this time I’m joined by the brilliant Danny Stockwell Talent Manager from FX Digital (someone I’ve known a while, and we’ve been meaning to do this for ages). We go deep into what’s really happening in today’s tech hiring market, how to stand out when everyone’s shouting, and why bringing energy and honesty to hiring still cuts through. Oh - and did I mention he’s also a DJ and music producer? 🎧So yes, it would’ve been rude not to use one of his own tracks for the show intro - and it bangs. Raw convo, no fluff. We talk talent, tech, real recruitment challenges and what hiring managers actually want to see. One for the job seekers, hiring leads, and anyone who loves real talk with rhythm. 🎧 Now streaming on all platforms.   A breakdown of the show complete with time markers for the shufflers: 🕒 0:00 – Introduction to Danny his Journey & FX Digital  🕒 04:20 – The Importance of Networking  🕒 09:27 – Standing Out in a Saturated Job Market  🕒 13:03 – Cultural Fit vs. Technical Skills in Hiring  🕒 18:08 – Advice for Job Seekers & Candidates  🕒 22:28 – Wrap & Key Takeaways     Your support as always means the world to me – thank you for being part of this journey! 🙌 See you next time for more QA, Engineering and Tech insights and community stories.

    25 min
  3. 10 JUIL.

    In the Trenches – 6 Months of Building | Neill McCarthy & Gary Shannon | Ep.6

    🎙️ "In the Trenches - 6 Months of Building" is where startup reality meets raw conversation. Hosted by Gary and Neill, this series pulls back the curtain on their journey building businesses from scratch - six months in and still scrapping, learning, pivoting, and growing. Expect honest takes on the wins, the misfires, and the messy middle, with real talk on funding, burnout, breakthroughs, and bold moves. Whether you're a fellow founder or curious about what it really takes to launch something meaningful, this is your backstage pass.   Tune in now as we dive right in!   A breakdown of the show complete with time markers for the shufflers :)  🕒 0:00 – Introduction to The QA Hype Show and Neill  🕒 02:22 – Challenges In The Current Job Market  🕒 05:05 – Understanding The Metaverse: Definitions & Rules 🕒 07:36 – Launching Hive Quality Engineering  🕒 10:16 – Navigating The Sales Cycle  🕒 11:22 – Advice for Job Seekers & Industry Trends  🕒 23:18 – Embracing Change and Authenticity    🕒 23:54 – Future Vision for Hive Quality Engineering  🕒 25:09 – Advice for Startups in a Tough Market   🕒 27:07 – Building Community and Support Networks   🕒 31:49 – Advice for Job Seekers & Industry Trends  🕒 35:07 – Resilience and Adaptability in Business     🕒 36:51 – The Role of Music & Culture in Connection  🕒 39:54 – Wrap up & Key Take Aways   Your support as always means the world to me – thank you for being part of this journey! 🙌 See you next time for more QA and Tech insights and community stories.

    41 min
  4. 20 MAI

    Breaking Barriers: Oculus, the Metaverse, and the Diversity Disconnect | Gary Shannon & Charmaine Short | Ep.5

    Breaking Barriers: Oculus, the Metaverse, and the Diversity Disconnect join me, Gary Shannon, and Charmaine Short (Operational Test Manager at Fnality) take a critical look at how virtual reality and metaverse technologies are shaping the future - while still facing deep-rooted issues around inclusivity and representation. In this episode, we dive into the opportunities and challenges of emerging digital spaces, exploring whether the metaverse truly delivers on its promise of accessibility and diversity. From Oculus innovations to systemic gaps in representation, this conversation tackles the pressing question: Who is being left behind in the digital revolution? Tune in for an insightful discussion that challenges industry norms and sparks important dialogue on the next frontier of tech inclusion. Tune in now as we dive right in!   A breakdown of the show complete with time markers for the shufflers :)  🕒 0:00 – Introduction to The QA Hype Show and Charmaine   🕒 04:22 – Etterverse  🕒 06:42 – Understanding The Metaverse: Definitions & Rules 🕒 12:25 – I use the Meta Headset Now - Daily  🕒 13:27 – Barriers to Entry: Diversity & Accessibility Challenges  🕒 20:43 – The Role of Testers in Creating Inclusive Technology  🕒 23:41 – The QA Hype Quick Fire Questions Round   🕒 33:57 – Wrap up & Key Take Aways   Your support as always means the world to me – thank you for being part of this journey! 🙌 See you next time for more QA and Tech insights and community stories.

    36 min
  5. 3 AVR.

    Nostalgia/Back to the 90s - Gary Shannon & Leigh Rathbone - Ep.4

    🎙️ Nostalgia/Back to the 90s Join me, Gary Shannon, and Leigh Rathbone (Head of Test at Cavu) as we embark on a nostalgic journey through the evolution of testing tools and the rollercoaster ride of the QA market across the decades. In this special episode, we delve into the tools that defined the '90s, the challenges we conquered, and how the industry has transformed into what it is today. Whether you're a seasoned QA veteran or just curious about its fascinating history, this episode promises a perfect mix of insights, laughter, and a touch of nostalgia. Let’s rewind to the '90s and uncover the roots of modern QA! Tune in now and relive the journey.   Episode: Nostalgia/Back to the 90s - Gary Shannon & Leigh Rathbone   A breakdown of the show complete with time markers for the shufflers :)  🕒 0:00 – Introduction to The QA Hype Show and Leigh  🕒 01:10 – Nostalgic Journey Through QA History  🕒 07:17 – The Evolution of Testing Tools 🕒 32:55 – Market Dynamics & Pivotal Moments From the 90s to The Present Day 🕒 41:15 – The Evolution of Testing: From 'Testing is Dead' to QE 🕒 46:40 – Quality Engineering is a New Role? - Its not! 🕒 48:16 – Lessons Learned From Historical Shifts in QA  🕒 53:51 – The Future of QA in the Age of AI  🕒 56:26 – The QA Hype Quick Fire Q&As  🕒 66:58 – Wrap up & Key Take Aways    Your support as always means the world to me – thank you for being part of this journey! 🙌 See you next time for more QA insights and community stories.

    1 h 9 min
  6. 15 MARS

    The Power of Community - Gary Shannon & Rosie Sherry - Ep.2

    🚀 Welcome back to the 2nd episode of The QA Hype Show! 🎙️ I’m beyond excited to dive into this episode with a brilliant guest as we explore The Power of Community!   In Episode 2, Rosie and I unpack why community is such a game-changer – from the value of networking to the magic of face-to-face interactions. Whether you're building connections or shaping your personal brand, there’s something here for everyone.   Here’s a quick breakdown of the episode with timestamps, so you can jump straight to the parts that speak to you:   🕒 0:00 – Introduction to The QA Hype Show and Rosie 🕒 01:03 – The Power of Community in Testing 🕒 10:22 – Face-to-Face Interactions & Why They Matter 🕒 11:14 – Building a Strong Community 🕒 15:32 – What Makes a Strong Test Community? 🕒 20:52 – Supporting & Leveraging QA Communities 🕒 22:15 – Building Personal Brand & Authenticity 🕒 24:21 – The Power of Networking & Community 🕒 25:38 – Evolving Recruitment Landscape 🕒 27:01 – The Drive Behind Community Building 🕒 29:18 – Innovating in the Community Space 🕒 32:07 – Growing a Follower Base on LinkedIn 🕒 35:15 – Quick-Fire Q&A Session 🕒 37:01 – The Future of MoT & Community Engagement 🕒 40:10 – Key Takeaways & Wrap-Up   Your support means the world – thank you for being part of this journey! 🙌 See you next time for more QA insights and community stories.

    42 min

À propos

Welcome to The Optimal Hype Show Community! - (formerly The QA Hype Show) Your dedicated space to connect, engage, and grow in the world of Quality Engineering, Engineering, and Tech. The Optimal Hype Show Evolving from The QA Hype Show, we’ve expanded our focus beyond QA into the full spectrum of QA/QE, Engineering and AI - still bringing the same high‑energy conversations you know and love, now under the Optimal banner. Join the movement and help redefine quality, innovation, and collaboration, one episode at a time. What’s New in 2025 Launching early in 2025, The Optimal Hype Show delivers insightful conversations with some of the brightest and most diverse minds in the industry. With a stellar line‑up of confirmed speakers, expect expert insights, actionable strategies, and the latest innovations in tech - no fluff, no BS, just straight‑talking, real‑world discussions. Our Purpose We exist to: Connect and empower the global QE, Engineering, and wider tech community. Give you a voice by conducting polls and gathering your questions for our guests. Build towards live sessions for more dynamic and interactive experiences. Celebrate and promote diversity, ensuring everyone has a seat at the table. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey, this group is your hub for learning, networking, and shaping the future of tech together.