Digitel Talk

Digitel Talk
Digitel Talk

Digitel Talk is a podcast promoting doing good in the mobile, telecoms and related technology industries. The heart of the podcast is about the people, what they have done, how it has affected them, others and the planet and what great things we can expect. We aim to share the stories of those champions who want to help others and have found a way of using mobile, telecoms and technology to achieve this.  As hosts who work in telecoms, if nothing else, the podcast aims to broaden the audience for these projects with hopes it might resonate with others who will be inspired to do something good themselves.

  1. AI for Good 2025: Where Technology Meets Purpose

    2 JUL

    AI for Good 2025: Where Technology Meets Purpose

    As an official media partner of the AI for Good Global Summit 2025, Digitel Talk brings you an exclusive preview from Geneva. Host Ian Ginn speaks with Dr Bilel Jamoussi (ITU) about what to expect from this year’s event, where over 3,500 participants, 100+ demos, and 300 speakers from around the world come together to shape the future of trustworthy, inclusive AI. From flying cars and brain-machine interfaces to deep discussions on AI governance, skills, and regulation, AI for Good is where policymakers, innovators and tech leaders meet to turn ideas into real-world impact. Links and resources AI for Good Global Summit 2025 - https://aiforgood.itu.intInternational Telecommunication Union (ITU) - https://www.itu.intEpisode sponsored by IFG Consulting Europe– Supporting telcos with tech strategy, digitisation and growth [https://www.ifgconsultingeurope.com] Guest bio Dr Bilel Jamoussi, a distinguished engineer and diplomat, is the Deputy Director of the ITU Standardization Bureau and Chief, Study Groups & Policy Department (SPD) in Geneva, Switzerland. His primary mission is to establish the international standards essential for ensuring global telecommunications and ICT interoperability, promote universal, meaningful connectivity and champion sustainable digital transformation. Key achievements under his tenure have been important new standards, ensuring increased industry engagement, bolstering cooperation with other standardization bodies, as well as leading in emerging tech discussions and building strategic partnerships. Podcast credits: Host: Ian Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ginn/)Guest: Dr Bilel Jamoussi (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bilel-jamoussi/)Editor: Francis Wright (https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciswaudio/)Designer: Rebecca Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ginn-86218414a/)Project manager: Ivana Duric (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanamj/)Send us your feedback Send us your feedback Follow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact getintouch@digiteltalk.com If you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel. You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

    21 min
  2. Michael Bednar-Brandt on How AI Is Reshaping Leadership in Telecoms

    26 JUN

    Michael Bednar-Brandt on How AI Is Reshaping Leadership in Telecoms

    In this episode of Digitel Talk, Ian Ginn is joined by innovation strategist Michael Bednar-Brandt to explore how AI is reshaping leadership in telecoms—not just as a tool, but as a transformative force redefining how organisations operate. They unpack the challenges facing telecoms leaders in an era of accelerated change, from agentic AI and data sovereignty to leadership mindsets, agility and the “fitness level” required to stay competitive. Michael also shares a future-facing view on automation, lights-out operations, and why leadership in telecoms needs to shift from control to adaptability. Links and resources Futurenet World – https://www.futurenetworld.netNVIDIA NeMo Framework –  https://developer.nvidia.com/nemoAnthropic’s MCP (Modular Context Protocol) –  https://www.anthropic.comAI Act – European Commission –  https://artificialintelligenceact.euEpisode sponsored by IFG Consulting Europe– Supporting telcos with tech strategy, digitisation and growth [https://www.ifgconsultingeurope.com] Guest bio Michael Bednar-Brandt is CEO of Unify7 and a specialist in leadership for Human–AI organisations. With a background in corporate innovation, digital transformation, and international executive roles, he helps companies build the capabilities needed for sustainable performance in complex environments. Podcast credits: Host: Ian Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ginn/)Guest: Michael Bednar-Brandt (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bednarbrandt)Editor: Francis Wright (https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciswaudio/)Designer: Rebecca Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ginn-86218414a/)Project manager: Ivana Duric (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanamj/)Send us your feedback Follow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact getintouch@digiteltalk.com If you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel. You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

    39 min
  3. MVNOs World Congress 2025: Leading Experts Discussing and Unpacking a Changing World of Opportunity

    20 JUN

    MVNOs World Congress 2025: Leading Experts Discussing and Unpacking a Changing World of Opportunity

    In this episode of Digitel Talk, recorded live at MVNOs World Congress, Ian Ginn is joined by Gary Bhomer (TeleConsult) and Wilfrid Moser (A1 Austria) to explore what’s shaping the future of MVNOs. From travel eSIMs and football club MVNOs to vanity numbers, AI-driven marketing, and telco-for-good initiatives like Better Life Mobile, this episode is packed with insights, innovation, and surprising ideas that redefine mobile connectivity.  Links and resources: MVNOs World Congress TeleConsult A1 Telekom Austria Group Red Bull Mobile Honest Mobile Fenercell Collado (Caledo) Telna OneGlobalEpisode sponsored by IFG Consulting Europe– Supporting telcos with tech strategy, digitisation and growth [https://www.ifgconsultingeurope.com] Guest bio Wilfrid Moser Mr. Moser has been a telecom professional for over then 25 years. He studied communication engineering and economy. He worked for the European Commission, Swisscom and A1 Telekom Austria. He was co-founder of the portal “billiger-telefonieren.at”. He was mainly active in product marketing, communications and in online marketing. He has been product manager for MVNO and reseller within the A1 Telekom Austria. Wilfrid is now the product manager of Red Bull MOBILE Data - a travel eSIM solution. Gary Bhomer Gary Bhomer is an expert in Telecommunications with 30 years’ experience in the industry. His specific areas of expertise include Wholesale, Business Strategy and Transformation, Market Analysis, Pricing and Contract Negotiation. He has held senior executive roles with all three major Australian operators. In 2017 Gary founded Tel-Consult, an independent, specialist Telecommunications consultancy based in Sydney, Australia, helping local and international clients across a range of projects, including MVNO, MVNE, digital enablement, commercial negotiations, go-to-market and identifying and launching new products and services. Podcast credits: Host: Ian Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ginn/)Guests: Wilfrid Moser (https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilfridmoser/), Gary Bhomer (https://www.linkedin.com/in/garybhomer/ )Editor: Francis Wright (https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciswaudio/)Designer: Rebecca Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ginn-86218414a/)Project manager: Ivana Duric (Send us your feedback Follow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact getintouch@digiteltalk.com If you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel. You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

    1h 5m
  4. Craig Pemberton on Real-World Vodafone Innovation, 5G Standalone & Unlocking the Potential of VodafoneThree

    13 JUN

    Craig Pemberton on Real-World Vodafone Innovation, 5G Standalone & Unlocking the Potential of VodafoneThree

    In this episode of Digitel Talk, recorded live at Connected North, Ian Ginn speaks with Craig Pemberton, Senior Innovation Manager at Vodafone, about how telecoms is evolving—well beyond connectivity. From 5G Standalone and network slicing to smart energy grids, EV charging, and digital inclusion, Craig shares how innovation at Vodafone is driven by both purpose and technology. He also reflects on the Vodafone–Three merger, the real meaning of Release 18, and why M-Pesa remains a defining success story. A must-listen for anyone interested in the future of networks, innovation, and telecoms with impact. Links and resources: Vodafone  ThreeDean BubleyM-PesaFirst UK Mobile Phone Call – Vodafone VT1 5G Ultra – Vodafone UKEpisode sponsored by IFG Consulting Europe – Supporting telcos with tech strategy, digitisation and growth [https://www.ifgconsultingeurope.com] Guest bio With over 25 years working in the telecoms industry, Craig has held a number of technical design, consultancy and senior management positions, and is now leading co-creation with Vodafone UK Business clients to explore the full potential of the latest developments in next generation networks. Currently specialising in 5G SA, slicing, Edge Computing and IoT, Craig has first-hand experience of applied communications technology in solving business challenges, and has delivered projects across diverse verticals from public sector, transport, retail, media and entertainment, winning industry awards in the process. Craig holds a BSc in Geological Geophysics, MSc in Information Technology and is a Member of the Institute of Engineering and Technology.  Podcast credits Host: Ian Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ginn/)Guest: Craig Pemberton (https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-pemberton/)Editor: Francis Wright (https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciswaudio/)Designer: Rebecca Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ginn-86218414a/)Project manager: Ivana Duric (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanamj/)Send us your feedback Follow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact getintouch@digiteltalk.com If you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel. You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

    52 min
  5. 6 JUN

    Why the Broadband Race Isn’t About Speed Anymore—with David Hough

    What do fibre networks, sheep farming, and the future of broadband have in common? A lot more than you’d think. In this episode of Digitel Talk, host Ian Ginn sits down with David Hough, outgoing CTO of Freedom Fibre and one of the most experienced voices in the UK telecom scene. Recorded live at Connected North, this candid conversation explores the real state of Britain’s broadband—from the overcrowded altnet battlefield to the promise of network orchestration and the critical role of customer trust in driving adoption. David doesn’t hold back on what’s broken in the industry, how consolidation is inevitable, and why building smarter, not bigger, is the key to nationwide connectivity. Oh—and when he’s not building networks? He’s raising sheep on a 120-acre farm. Seriously. If you care about where your internet comes from—or where it’s going—this episode is essential listening. Links and resources Freedom FibreConnected NorthInmanta City FibreCommunity FibreNet OmniaOgi KCOMLila connectBuilding Digital UK (BDUK)Guest bio David has always worked in Telecommunications with over 35 years of extensive telecoms experience, in the service provider, altnet and equipment vendor sectors. Having worked for BT, GPT, Marconi, Ericsson, ECI, KCOM, TalkTalk, Upp and now Freedom Fibre. Recently, David was responsible for the architecture, transformation and design of solutions for the core access and orchestration layers of a key UK Service provider network. Utilising future-proof SDN solutions and implementing a true IP-enabled end-to-end network to deliver the first complete UK FTTP solution. Previously, David has held Technical Director roles for several suppliers covering access, voice, data and management products, working with Tier 1 service providers to deliver next-generation solutions. Podcast credits Host: Ian Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ginn/)Guest: David Hough (https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-hough-4530071/ )Editor: Francis Wright (https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciswaudio/)Designer: Rebecca Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ginn-86218414a/)Project manager: Ivana Duric (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanamj/)Send us your feedback Follow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact getintouch@digiteltalk.com If you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel. You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

    33 min
  6. 27/11/2024

    Joost de Kluijver, Closing the Loop - Incentivising Responsible Recycling of E-Waste

    In episode 36, Ian and Frankie talk with Joost de Kluijver, Director and Founder of Closing the Loop, to delve into the innovative 'One for One' service that collects and recycles broken phones for every new phone sold. The discussion revolves around the circular economy, the environmental impact of e-waste, and how Closing the Loop operates in developing countries to provide sustainable solutions. Joost shares insights on the company's journey, the importance of circularity over compliance, and how businesses can leverage waste reduction for positive impact. The dialogue further extends to Joost's personal experiences, philosophies, and his future aspirations for broadening the sustainable approach across the tech industry globally. Joost de Kluijver - Having worked in the tech industry, large corporations, and international non-profits, Joost has developed a clear understanding of what works best for them—commercial entrepreneurship that offers more than just financial returns. Their international background includes living, working, or studying in countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, Portugal, Malaysia, Tanzania, and Poland. Driven by both business and personal ambitions, Joost founded Closing the Loop, a company that brings value to tech sellers and buyers through a straightforward green service called 'One for One.' This service helps tech users feel proud of their devices by transforming e-scrap into income opportunities in emerging economies. Closing the Loop supports customers from the global North in aligning their electronics consumption with their values. The company achieves this by connecting device purchases to electronic waste reduction efforts in the global South. What sets the company apart is its hands-on experience in managing these processes, built up since 2012. Podcast credits Host: Ian Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ginn/)Co-host: Frankie Spagnolo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankie-spagnolo-8534482a/)Editor: Rebecca Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ginn-86218414a/) Send us your feedback Follow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact getintouch@digiteltalk.com If you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel. You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

    59 min
  7. 20/11/2024

    Dr Bilel Jamoussi, ITU - WTAS 24 Overview and Actionable Outcomes

    In episode 35, Ian and Frankie talk with Dr. Bilel Jamoussi, Deputy to the Director of the ITU to discuss the significant developments in digital technologies and the role of the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in shaping global standards. The discussion covers the recent World Telecommunication Standardisation Assembly (WTSA 24) held in New Delhi, highlighting increased participation, the importance of AI standards, gender equality in the tech industry, and the ITU's initiatives on climate change and financial inclusion. A distinguished engineer, leader, and diplomat; multilingual standardisation expert and holder of 23 patents, Tunisian born Dr Bilel Jamoussi is the Deputy to the Director and Chief of Telecommunication Standardisation Policy Department at the ITU Standardisation Bureau (TSB) in Geneva, Switzerland. His primary mission is to establish international standards to promote universal, meaningful connectivity and champion sustainable digital transformation. He also aims to intensify industry engagement, ensure inclusivity in standards development and adoption, and bolster cooperation with other standardisation bodies. Additionally, he is committed to leading in emerging tech discussions, building strategic partnerships, and pursuing organisational excellence. Links: AI for Good Global Summit Podcast credits Host: Ian Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-ginn/)Co-host: Frankie Spagnolo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankie-spagnolo-8534482a/)Editor: Rebecca Ginn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ginn-86218414a/) Send us your feedback Follow Digitel Talk Want to be a guest on the show or sponsor a podcast? For all enquires contact getintouch@digiteltalk.com If you liked this episode, please subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave us a 5* review and rating, it really helps our channel. You can find us on LinkedIn @digitel-talk or on our website www.digiteltalk.com

    47 min
5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Digitel Talk is a podcast promoting doing good in the mobile, telecoms and related technology industries. The heart of the podcast is about the people, what they have done, how it has affected them, others and the planet and what great things we can expect. We aim to share the stories of those champions who want to help others and have found a way of using mobile, telecoms and technology to achieve this.  As hosts who work in telecoms, if nothing else, the podcast aims to broaden the audience for these projects with hopes it might resonate with others who will be inspired to do something good themselves.

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