Digital State Podcast

Asad Ansari and Paul Scully

The Digital State Podcast explores how technology is changing government, public services, defence and society. Co-hosted by Paul Scully, former UK Minister for Technology and Digital, and Asad Ansari, Managing Partner of Mayfair IT, the podcast brings together senior leaders from government, the civil service, defence, national security, technology and industry for informed conversations about the UK's digital future. Each episode goes beyond the technology itself to explore the leadership, policy and delivery challenges behind meaningful transformation. Discussions cover artificial intelligence, data, cyber security, digital transformation, defence technology, public sector reform, procurement, innovation, digital skills and emerging technology. Guests include Ministers and former Ministers, senior civil servants, defence leaders, Chief Digital and Information Officers, technology executives, entrepreneurs, SMEs and leaders from major service integrators. From how AI could transform the NHS to the future of digital defence, government procurement and the relationship between the public and private sectors, The Digital State Podcast focuses on the practical decisions shaping the next generation of government and public services. New episodes feature candid conversations, practical lessons and informed perspectives from the people helping shape policy, technology and delivery across the UK. The Digital State Podcast - where government, technology and public policy meet. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Episodes

  1. 12 hr ago

    AI, Technology and the Future of Small Business | Emma Jones CBE

    How can small businesses use AI and digital technology to become more productive, competitive and resilient? In this episode of The Digital State Podcast, Paul Scully and Asad Ansari are joined by Emma Jones CBE, Small Business Commissioner, to explore how technology is changing the landscape for SMEs across the UK. The conversation looks at the growing accessibility of artificial intelligence, how smaller businesses can adopt new technology without large budgets or specialist teams, and where digital tools can make the biggest practical difference. Emma also discusses some of the wider challenges facing SMEs, including late payments, cash flow, access to opportunities and the relationship between small businesses and government. The discussion explores what more can be done to help entrepreneurs embrace technology, improve productivity and compete effectively in an increasingly digital economy, while ensuring innovation translates into genuine commercial value. At the heart of the episode is a simple question: Can AI and technology help level the playing field for Britain's small businesses? Listen to the full episode of The Digital State Podcast for practical insights on AI adoption, entrepreneurship, SME growth, and the future of the UK's small business economy. Follow The Digital State Podcast Keep up with the latest conversations on government, technology, defence, AI, data, and the future of public services. Website: https://thedigitalstate.co.uk/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DigitalStatePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalstatepodcastTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@digitalstatepodcastFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/digitalstatepodcast Subscribe and follow The Digital State Podcast for new episodes, clips, and insights from leaders across government, technology, and industry. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    AI, Technology and the Future of Small Business | Emma Jones CBE

  2. 25 Aug

    The System Is Failing? Kevin O'Neill, SVP, CGI on Government Technology, Procurement and Innovation

    How can government work more effectively with technology partners to deliver better public services? In this episode of The Digital State Podcast, Paul Scully and Asad Ansari are joined by Kevin O’Neill, Senior Vice President at CGI, to explore the realities of delivering technology and transformation across the UK public sector. The conversation examines government procurement, digital transformation, innovation, the role of major technology suppliers, and how SMEs can play a greater role in delivering public sector outcomes. Kevin also shares his perspective on what government and industry can do differently to build stronger partnerships, accelerate delivery, and create more space for innovation. At its heart, the discussion asks a simple question: if everyone agrees the system needs to change, what is stopping government and industry from changing it? Listen to the full episode of The Digital State Podcast for a practical discussion on technology, procurement, partnerships and the future of public sector transformation. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    The System Is Failing? Kevin O'Neill, SVP, CGI on Government Technology, Procurement and Innovation
  • 2 Episodes

About

The Digital State Podcast explores how technology is changing government, public services, defence and society. Co-hosted by Paul Scully, former UK Minister for Technology and Digital, and Asad Ansari, Managing Partner of Mayfair IT, the podcast brings together senior leaders from government, the civil service, defence, national security, technology and industry for informed conversations about the UK's digital future. Each episode goes beyond the technology itself to explore the leadership, policy and delivery challenges behind meaningful transformation. Discussions cover artificial intelligence, data, cyber security, digital transformation, defence technology, public sector reform, procurement, innovation, digital skills and emerging technology. Guests include Ministers and former Ministers, senior civil servants, defence leaders, Chief Digital and Information Officers, technology executives, entrepreneurs, SMEs and leaders from major service integrators. From how AI could transform the NHS to the future of digital defence, government procurement and the relationship between the public and private sectors, The Digital State Podcast focuses on the practical decisions shaping the next generation of government and public services. New episodes feature candid conversations, practical lessons and informed perspectives from the people helping shape policy, technology and delivery across the UK. The Digital State Podcast - where government, technology and public policy meet. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Asad Ansari and Paul Scully
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    2
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Asad Ansari
  • Show Website
    Digital State Podcast