OPEN Tech Talks: AI worth Talking| Artificial Intelligence |Tools & Tips

Kashif Manzoor

Open Tech Talks is your weekly sandbox for technology: Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Machine Learning, Large Language Models (LLMs) insights, experimentation, and inspiration. Hosted by Kashif Manzoor, AI Evangelist, Cloud Expert, and Enterprise Architect, this Podcast combines technology products, artificial intelligence, machine learning overviews, how-to's, best practices, tips & tricks, and troubleshooting techniques. Whether you're a CIO, IT manager, developer, or just curious about AI, Open Tech Talks is for you, covering a wide range of topics, including Artificial Intelligence, Multi-Cloud, ERP, SaaS, and business challenges. Join Kashif each week as he explores the latest happenings in the tech world and shares his insights to help you stay ahead of the curve. Here's what you can expect from Open Tech Talks: Interviews with industry experts Insights into the latest AI trends Best practices for using AI technology in your career Tips and tricks for troubleshooting AI problems Inspiration to learn more about AI Additional details about the podcast: The podcast is available on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple, and Google. New episodes are released every Saturday. Each episode of the podcast is about 30 minutes long. "The views expressed on this Podcast and blog are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of my current or previous employers."

  1. Building AI Products with Emotion and Purpose in the Age of Automation with Cristian Sibbles

    3 DAYS AGO

    Building AI Products with Emotion and Purpose in the Age of Automation with Cristian Sibbles

    In this episode of Open Tech Talks, host Kashif Manzoor speaks with Cristian Sibbles, founder of Autograph AI, a groundbreaking platform that transforms personal memories into digital legacies using Generative AI and Voice AI. Cristian shares how Autograph’s virtual interviewer “Walter” calls users weekly to record their life stories, transforming them into searchable biographies and AI-powered avatars that preserve family wisdom for future generations. From his roots in Paraguay to studying Artificial Intelligence at Stanford and working at Google, Cristian’s journey reveals how technology, storytelling, and emotion can converge to build products that outlive trends. The discussion invovlved into AI-driven memory preservation, the technical architecture of voice-based agents, and Cristian’s rapid MVP-to-market strategy, which went viral across nine countries. Listeners will learn practical insights on building AI startups with emotional purpose, designing AI-first workflows, mastering iteration velocity, and leveraging Generative AI tools to solve real human problems. This episode is a must-listen for founders, engineers, and innovators exploring how AI can amplify human stories rather than replace them. Episode # 169 Today’s Guest: Cristian Cibils Bernardes, Founder & CEO, Autograph Cristian Cibils Bernardes is the founder and CEO of Autograph, the company behind Walter, the world's first AI Historian. Walter functions as a journal, prompting users to document their life stories once a week. Cristian studied Symbolic Systems with a focus on Artificial Intelligence at Stanford, worked as a Software Engineer at Google, and was a Partner at Cibersons. Website: Autograph What Listeners Will Learn: Cristian’s personal story of growing up in a tech-driven family, studying AI at Stanford, and transitioning from Google engineer to founder. How Autograph integrates telephony, scheduling, and generative models to facilitate lifelike conversations. Insights on MVP development speed from idea to working prototype in one week, and to live beta in under four months. The importance of iteration velocity, AI-first thinking, and design thinking in modern product building. The emerging market for AI-driven memory preservation addresses the issues of loneliness and social connection in an aging population. Key lessons for GenAI founders, identifying human-centric problems, staying ahead of AI commoditization, and building products that last beyond technological hype. Why unstructured, emotional data, not structured enterprise data, may define the next generation of AI experiences. Resources: Autograph

    30 min
  2. Building the AI Factory and Lessons on Agentic AI with Maurice McCabe

    27 SEPT

    Building the AI Factory and Lessons on Agentic AI with Maurice McCabe

    In this episode of Open Tech Talks, host Kashif Manzoor sits down with Maurice McCabe, founder of AIASystems, AI specialist, and software architect with decades of experience in Silicon Valley and Los Angeles. Maurice shares his journey from early machine learning applications in mobile advertising to leading-edge work in Generative AI and Agentic AI systems. The conversation on the concept of the AI Factory, a framework that transforms enterprise workflows and subject-matter expertise into scalable AI startups and SaaS products. Maurice explains how his team is building real-time AI agents, avatars, and voice-based AI systems. He also introduces the ADAPT methodology, designed to help enterprises accelerate AI adoption and move beyond slow, traditional management cycles. Key insights include how to evaluate AI maturity models, integrate generative AI into an enterprise architecture, and address the security challenges posed by unstructured data. Listeners will learn practical lessons for founders, consultants, and enterprises from how to bootstrap AI ventures and filter out hype, to why unstructured data is emerging as the next frontier of enterprise AI innovation. Episode # 168 Today’s Guest: Maurice McCabe, Co-Founder of AIA Systems He has spent 20 years developing systems that ensure things actually work, from scalable SaaS platforms and real-time data pipelines to voice agents deployed in production environments. Website: AIASystems What Listeners Will Learn: How enterprises can spin off niche products from workflows and subject-matter expertise. Emerging trends such as real-time avatars, voice-based agents, and multi-agent swarms. Why LiveKit, WebRTC, and specialized APIs are enabling scalable real-time AI systems. Lessons on cash flow, partnerships, and productivity tools for founders entering the generative AI space. A framework to help enterprises strategically adopt AI and outpace competitors. How to assess readiness through data, processes, and accessibility for generative AI adoption. Current gaps, risks of prompt manipulation, and the need for evaluation loops in AI systems. How to integrate unstructured data workflows into existing structured enterprise systems. Techniques for filtering hype, testing pilots, and staying grounded while AI evolves weekly.   Resources: AIASystems

    28 min
  3. What Employers Really Look for in Candidates in the Age of AI with Bill Kasko

    20 SEPT

    What Employers Really Look for in Candidates in the Age of AI with Bill Kasko

    In this episode of Open Tech Talks, Kashif Manzoor is joined by Bill Kasko, founder and president of Frontline Source Group. With more than two decades in the staffing industry, Bill shares how the talent landscape is shifting as AI, Generative AI, and automation reshape hiring needs. He explains why traditional hiring requirements like expecting years of experience in a new field, don’t always match today’s AI skill sets and how organizations are adapting to this rapid evolution. Bill discusses the challenges companies face in finding AI-savvy talent, the rise of AI agents in products and workflows, and the ongoing evaluation of where AI truly saves time versus where human oversight is still required. He also offers insights into how candidates can stand out by demonstrating adaptability, sharing real project experiences, and even talking openly about failures. The conversation touches on remote vs. hybrid work trends post-COVID, the role of LinkedIn as a talent network, and why employers are taking back control of hiring after the “great resignation.” Toward the end, Bill shares his People–Process–Service philosophy and explains why communication, honesty, respect, and entrepreneurial thinking are at the core of building resilient businesses and lasting relationships with clients and candidates. Episode # 167 Today’s Guest: Bill Kasko, President and CEO, Frontline Source Group Bill Kasko is President and CEO of Frontline Source Group, a leading staffing and recruiting firm with a national presence. With a strong background in the industry, Mr. Kasko has driven Frontline Source Group to become an award-winning company that provides temporary, temp-to-hire, and direct hire staffing solutions across various industries. Website: Frontline Source Group What Listeners Will Learn: Why hiring for AI roles requires a new mindset, and how companies are coping with skills that don’t have formal training pipelines yet. How businesses can keep up when AI technology shifts faster than traditional 18-36 month adoption cycles. Why adaptability, value creation, and project experience (even failed ones) are key for hiring managers today in the Gen AI era How organizations are evaluating when AI tools add real efficiency and when human review is still essential. Insights into hybrid, remote, and in-office work patterns and how they impact hiring. Why talent now comes from networks, not just applicant pools, and how leaders should rethink recruiting strategies. How Bill applies this framework to strengthen teams and deliver consistent, high-quality results.   Resources: Frontline Source Group

    34 min
  4. AI Security and Agentic Risks Every Business Needs to Understand with Alexander Schlager

    13 SEPT

    AI Security and Agentic Risks Every Business Needs to Understand with Alexander Schlager

    In this episode of Open Tech Talks, we delve into the critical topics of AI security, explainability, and the risks associated with agentic AI. As organizations adopt Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), ensuring safety, trust, and responsible usage becomes essential. This conversation covers how runtime protection works as a proxy between users and AI models, why explainability is key to user trust, and how cybersecurity teams are becoming central to AI innovation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to AI Security and eIceberg 02:45 The Evolution of AI Explainability 05:58 Runtime Protection and AI Safety 07:46 Adoption Patterns in AI Security 10:51 Agentic AI: Risks and Management 13:47 Building Effective Agentic AI Workflows 16:42 Governance and Compliance in AI 19:37 The Role of Cybersecurity in AI Innovation 22:36 Lessons Learned and Future Directions Episode # 166 Today’s Guest: Alexander Schlager, Founder and CEO of AIceberg.ai He's founded a next-generation AI cybersecurity company that’s revolutionizing how we approach digital defense. With a strong background in enterprise tech and a visionary outlook on the future of AI, Alexander is doing more than just developing tools — he’s restoring trust in an era of automation. Website: AIceberg.ai Linkedin: Alexander Schlager  What Listeners Will Learn: Why real-time AI security and runtime protection are essential for safe deployments How explainable AI builds trust with users and regulators The unique risks of agentic AI and how to manage them responsibly Why AI safety and governance are becoming strategic priorities for companies How education, awareness, and upskilling help close the AI skills gap Why natural language processing (NLP) is becoming the default interface for enterprise technology Keywords: AI security, generative AI, agentic AI, explainability, runtime protection, cybersecurity, compliance, AI governance, machine learning   Resources: AIceberg.ai

    28 min
  5. How Y Combinator’s AI Focus is Shaping the Next Generation of Startups with Gabriel Jarrosson

    6 SEPT

    How Y Combinator’s AI Focus is Shaping the Next Generation of Startups with Gabriel Jarrosson

    Today, I have brought you an expert who has invested millions in startups, and he will share insights on the evolving landscape of startup investments, particularly in the realm of generative AI. He discusses his journey from entrepreneurship to venture capital, the importance of learning from failures, and the traits that make startups successful. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring founders on how to improve their chances of success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Gabriel Jorsson and Lobster Capital 02:13 The Shift to AI: Observations from Y Combinator 05:40 Investment Strategies: Beyond Y Combinator 06:22 Learning from Failures: Notable Investment Stories 09:06 Key Traits of Successful Startups 10:29 Generative AI: Trends and Insights 11:24 Evaluating Founders: Traits that Matter 11:55 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs Episode # 165 Today’s Guest: Gabriel Jarrosson, Managing Partner, Lobster Capital He is the Founder and Managing Partner at Lobster Capital, with over $40 million invested in more than 100 Y Combinator startups. As a serial entrepreneur with three exits, he has taken a bootstrapping approach to achieving $1M ARR with zero employees, and sold his first startup at the age of 25. Website: Lobster Capital YouTube: Lobster Capital What Listeners Will Learn: Learn how Gabriel transitioned from running startups to becoming an angel investor and eventually a venture capitalist at Lobster Capital. Understand how personal experiences as a founder shape investment decisions. Gain perspective on how Y Combinator has increased its focus on AI startups. Recognize why AI represents one of the most significant technological shifts of our time and why investors are paying close attention. Hear how failed investments are not wasted but instead offer valuable lessons. Learn how to extract insights from what doesn’t work to refine strategies and decision-making. Discover the common qualities Gabriel looks for in startups: deep understanding of market needs, creativity with limited resources, and resilience. Learn why evaluating founders’ commitment, adaptability, and long-term vision is critical for success. Understand why startups should anchor their efforts on creating measurable value for customers rather than chasing hype. Get practical advice on how value creation improves both user adoption and investor confidence. Explore how generative AI is opening new opportunities for innovation. Learn why staying updated and flexible is essential to take advantage of the rapidly shifting AI environment. Gabriel emphasizes the importance of being a lifelong learner as a founder. Discover how continuous adaptation, openness to feedback, and iteration are vital for building enduring companies.   Resources: Lobster Capital

    27 min
  6. AI for Automation to Transform Business Operations with Aarti Anand

    30 AUG

    AI for Automation to Transform Business Operations with Aarti Anand

    In this conversation, Aarti Anand shares her journey from a traditional 9 to 5 job to becoming an entrepreneur with Kodenyx AI, focusing on how AI and automation can help businesses thrive. She discusses the importance of identifying business patterns, shares success stories of AI implementations, and highlights the challenges organizations face when adopting AI. Aarti emphasizes the importance of a proactive mindset, the significance of starting small, and the skills necessary for effective AI project management. She also highlights her current business success and future goals, showcasing the potential of AI in transforming business operations. Episode # 164 Today’s Guest: Aarti Anand, Founder, Kodenyx AI Aarti was a product leader for 15 years and one day, decided to let it all go and start Kodenyx AI. Website: Kodenyx AI YouTube: Aarti Anand What Listeners Will Learn: How to identify common business challenges through conversations with other entrepreneurs. AI and automation became tools for creating a desired lifestyle. The importance of defaulting to action rather than over-planning. Lead generation and time-saving solutions are key selling points for AI services. Starting with service allows for the productization of successful solutions. Organizations face knowledge gaps and team pushback when adopting AI. A proactive mindset is crucial for success in AI projects. Fear of change can hinder progress, but the right mindset can overcome it.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aarti Anand and Kodenyx AI 02:45 The Journey from 9 to 5 to Entrepreneurship 05:49 Leveraging AI for Business Automation 08:36 Common Patterns in AI Implementation 11:34 Success Stories and ROI from AI Solutions 14:37 Challenges in Selling AI Solutions 17:31 Strategies for Successful AI Adoption 20:13 Identifying Skills for AI Projects 23:08 Creating a Culture of Innovation 26:10 Future Vision and Business Growth 27:58 Conclusion and How to Connect with Aarti Resources: Kodenyx AI

    30 min
  7. Building Conversational AI Chat Agents with Yam Marcovitz

    23 AUG

    Building Conversational AI Chat Agents with Yam Marcovitz

    In this episode of OpenTechTalks.tv, we dive into the intricate world of conversational AI with Yam, the founder of Parland. Discover the challenges of managing complexity and uncertainty in AI systems, and explore the opportunities that arise with the advent of GPT-4 and beyond. Yam shares insights on the importance of control in AI development, the role of subjectivity in conversation design, and the potential pitfalls of overhyped expectations. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of AI and its impact on the tech industry. Sound Bites "I wanted to start my own company at that point." "How can we introduce more control into GenAI?" "We felt that things were really overhyped."   Episode # 163 Today’s Guest: Yam Marcovitz, Co-founder and CEO of Parlant Yam Marcovitz is the co-founder and CEO of Parlant, an open-source platform that assists enterprises in building reliable, compliant, and predictable AI agents for customer experience. Website: Parlant What Listeners Will Learn: A journey from coder to entrepreneur highlights the evolution of AI. The challenges in programming languages stem from subjective decision-making. Control in generative AI is crucial for building reliable systems. Conversational design must consider real user behavior and preferences. Market research is essential for understanding user needs in AI. Open-source frameworks should focus on specific use cases for better utility. Managing complexity in AI conversations requires a clear separation of concerns. Mistakes in AI can have significant implications, not just in terms of frequency. New developers should seek mentorship and avoid hype-driven decisions. Understanding the landscape of AI requires practical experience and community engagement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jam and His Journey 02:34 The Genesis of Parland and GPT-4 Influence 05:13 Challenges in Programming Language Design 07:59 Exploring Control in Generative AI Systems 10:39 Conversations and User Experience in AI 13:26 Building a Powerful Open Source Engine 14:57 Building Efficient AI Agents 15:53 Challenges in Complex AI Interactions 18:09 Managing AI Safety and Control 21:10 Key Learnings for AI Project Development 22:08 Understanding Uncertainty in AI Development 25:26 Addressing Hallucinations in AI Systems 27:24 Navigating the Learning Journey in AI Development

    31 min
  8. The Importance of Data Sovereignty in AI Workflows with Giorgio Natili

    16 AUG

    The Importance of Data Sovereignty in AI Workflows with Giorgio Natili

    In this conversation, Giorgio Natili discusses the significance of confidential computing in the realm of AI workflows, emphasizing its role in ensuring data sovereignty and security. He explains how confidential computing can reshape AI usage, particularly in sensitive industries like finance and healthcare. The discussion also touches on the challenges organizations face regarding data privacy and the ethical implications of AI. Natili advocates for a balanced approach where AI complements human expertise rather than replacing it, and he highlights the importance of building secure and compliant AI systems. Sound Bites "Data sovereignty is crucial in AI workflows." "AI cannot replace human beings." "The expert in the room is the human being." Episode # 162 Today’s Guest: Giorgio Natili, Vice President and Head of Engineering at Opaque Systems Giorgio Natili is a tech leader, author, and advocate for fearless leadership. With over 20 years of experience, he has led teams at companies such as Amazon, Mozilla, and Capital One. LinkedIn: Giorgio Natili  What Listeners Will Learn: Confidential computing enhances the security posture of systems. Data sovereignty is a critical concern for organizations using AI. Confidential computing allows for secure AI workflows without data leakage. The role of trusted execution environments is vital in protecting sensitive data. Organizations often face challenges with compliance and data privacy regulations. AI should complement human expertise, not replace it. Confidential computing can help organizations navigate complex regulatory landscapes. The importance of attestation in ensuring secure AI workflows. AI can be powerful when used ethically and responsibly. Industry applications for confidential computing include finance, healthcare, and legal sectors.

    16 min
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About

Open Tech Talks is your weekly sandbox for technology: Artificial Intelligence, Generative AI, Machine Learning, Large Language Models (LLMs) insights, experimentation, and inspiration. Hosted by Kashif Manzoor, AI Evangelist, Cloud Expert, and Enterprise Architect, this Podcast combines technology products, artificial intelligence, machine learning overviews, how-to's, best practices, tips & tricks, and troubleshooting techniques. Whether you're a CIO, IT manager, developer, or just curious about AI, Open Tech Talks is for you, covering a wide range of topics, including Artificial Intelligence, Multi-Cloud, ERP, SaaS, and business challenges. Join Kashif each week as he explores the latest happenings in the tech world and shares his insights to help you stay ahead of the curve. Here's what you can expect from Open Tech Talks: Interviews with industry experts Insights into the latest AI trends Best practices for using AI technology in your career Tips and tricks for troubleshooting AI problems Inspiration to learn more about AI Additional details about the podcast: The podcast is available on all major platforms, including Spotify, Apple, and Google. New episodes are released every Saturday. Each episode of the podcast is about 30 minutes long. "The views expressed on this Podcast and blog are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of my current or previous employers."

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