Future of Business Podcast

Jay Dhillon
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Careers
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to the Future of Business Formerly known as the Business Mentor Podcast This podcast explores real-world business experience, ideas, and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship today. We interview and share insights with leading business owners, innovators, tech founders, and AI experts. Each episode is designed to give you practical direction, fresh thinking, and real strategies you can apply in your own journey—whether you're building, scaling, or adapting to a rapidly changing world. Your host is award-winning entrepreneur and iTunes #1 business podcast host.

  1. 2d ago

    Former Apple President on Saving Apple, Bringing Back Steve Jobs & Why Apple Missed The AI Revolution

    In this episode, we sit down with Marco Landi, the former President and Chief Operating Officer of Apple Computer. Marco shares the inside story of how he turned a $300 million loss into a profit in just 12 months, the strategic decision to bring Steve Jobs back to the company, and his transition into the world of artificial intelligence. We break down exactly why Apple fell behind in the AI race, the future of AI in digital media, and the massive untapped opportunities for founders building AI solutions today. The AI Data Goldmine: Small and medium-sized enterprises should focus on building Small Language Models (SLMs) using their own proprietary data rather than relying entirely on large, public LLMs. Compliant AI Platforms: There is a massive market gap for AI media platforms and studios built entirely on legally compliant, "agreed" data to protect creators from copyright risks. The Future of Digital Media: The democratization of film production means anyone with a great story can compete globally using generative AI tools. Connecting the Dots: The decision to acquire NextOS over BeOS not only brought Steve Jobs back but fundamentally changed the trajectory of global technology. 00:00 - Welcome Marco Landi to the podcast. 02:05 - Turning Apple around: How Marco shifted a $300M loss into a profit. 05:35 - The inside story of bringing Steve Jobs back to Apple. 10:18 - What it was really like working alongside Steve Jobs. 11:38 - Why Apple completely missed the AI revolution. 12:00 - What Steve Jobs would have built with AI technology today. 14:10 - Transitioning from Texas Instruments to pioneering AI expert systems. 17:37 - Launching the World AI Cannes Festival and the World AI Film Festival. 20:00 - How traditional business founders must navigate the AI revolution. 21:20 - Why protecting your company’s internal data is crucial for AI integration. 30:00 - The biggest unchartered business opportunities in the AI sector right now. 38:52 - Preparing the next generation for an AI-native world. Book: Connecting the Dots by Marco Landi. Events: World AI Cannes Festival & World AI Film Festival. Connect with Marco Landi: Follow his latest updates and AI initiatives on LinkedIn Key Takeaways & Business OpportunitiesEpisode TimestampsResources Mentioned

  2. Aug 21

    AI Has a Problem And Most Businesses Don’t Understand It! With Technology Expert Giancarlo Erra

    AI Has a Problem And Most Businesses Don’t Understand It AI is moving faster than most businesses can keep up with. But according to Giancarlo Erra, the biggest problem with AI isn't necessarily the technology. It's understanding it. In this episode of the Future of Business Podcast, Jay Dhillon sits down with Giancarlo Erra Lead AI Consultant at Altaire, technology entrepreneur, AI strategist and technology professional with more than 25 years of experience. Giancarlo has spent years helping businesses understand and implement emerging technology, and his perspective on AI goes well beyond the usual hype. We discuss what AI really is, why it can appear intelligent without actually understanding what it's saying, and why businesses need to slow down and understand the technology before rushing to implement it. Why AI isn't actually as new as many people thinkWhat really changed when ChatGPT arrivedWhy generative AI became so transformativeThe biggest problem Giancarlo sees when working with businessesWhy knowledge and understanding are more important than simply having access to AIWhy businesses are moving from being afraid of AI to feeling they desperately need itWhy enthusiasm for AI can actually become a problemWhy giving employees AI tools isn't enoughThe importance of training your people before implementing AIHow AI actually works — explained in simple termsWhy AI can produce convincing but incorrect answersWhy you should never blindly trust AIThe importance of context when using AIHow businesses can get better returns from AIWhether AI will replace jobsWhy AI could have a major impact on young people entering the workforceWhy education needs to changeWhy soft skills could become the new hard skillsThe importance of critical thinking, communication and reasoningWhether we're currently experiencing an AI bubbleWhat excites Giancarlo about the future of AIWhat concerns him most about where AI is headingThe AI race isn't simply about who adopts AI first. It's about who understands it well enough to use it properly. As Giancarlo explains during the conversation, businesses can move extremely quickly towards AI while the people actually expected to use it haven't caught up. That gap could become one of the biggest challenges — and opportunities — for businesses over the next few years. Giancarlo Erra is a technology entrepreneur, AI strategist, public speaker and Lead AI Consultant at Altaire, with more than 25 years of experience in technology. He has worked with businesses on AI, technology and digital transformation and has delivered AI training to organisations looking to understand how to use the technology effectively. Website:https://giancarloerra.co LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/giancarloerra/ Altaire:https://altaire.com Altaire AI Workshops:https://altaire.com/ai-workshops/ Hosted by Jay Dhillon, the Future of Business Podcast explores AI, entrepreneurship, technology, business and the people shaping what comes next. 🎙️ Listen/watch the full episode now. #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfBusiness #Business #Technology #Entrepreneurship In this episode:The big takeawayAbout Giancarlo ErraConnect with GiancarloFollow the Future of Business Podcast

    AI Has a Problem And Most Businesses Don’t Understand It! With Technology Expert Giancarlo Erra

  3. Aug 14

    Smartphone Pioneer Predicts The Future Of AI

    Most companies are sleepwalking into AI disasters without realizing it. In this eye-opening episode, tech pioneer David Wood reveals how past failures in the smartphone industry offer crucial lessons for navigating the AI revolution before it’s too late. From Silicon Valley’s missed opportunities to the Boeing disaster, David uncovers the patterns that could predict and prevent the next big catastrophe in AI safety and ethics. You’ll discover: The real reasons why companies like Nokia and BlackBerry missed the AI wave and how they can avoid similar pitfalls today.The crucial role of industry transparency, whistleblowing, and government regulation in safeguarding data and preventing system failures.Why large tech firms like Apple risk falling behindand how their culture of secrecy hampers progress in AI development.The risks of unchecked AI deployment in critical sectors like healthcare, finance, and military, and how we can prepare for a ‘Boeing moment’ in AI safety.Practical strategies for small businesses to integrate AI safely and effectively, leveraging domain expertise and reverse mentoring.How education, resilience, and collaboration are vital for individuals and organisations to future-proof themselves in this fast-changing landscape. This episode is essential listening for entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers, and anyone serious about mastering AI's power while avoiding its pitfalls. With his unparalleled experience in mobile tech and futurism, David Wood provides a grounded, urgent call to action because the next few years will determine whether AI elevates society or leads us into uncharted risks.Get ready to rethink what’s possible—and what’s life-threatening if we don’t act now. This isn’t just a technological shift; it’s a societal revolution, and your business, your safety, and your future depend on understanding it today. Stay informed, stay prepared.Connect with David Wood and learn more:London Futurists — ⁠LondonFuturists.com⁠ Books & Resources — ⁠DeltaWisdom.com⁠ Podcast — ⁠ https://londonfuturists.buzzsprout.com/

    Smartphone Pioneer Predicts The Future Of AI

  4. Aug 7

    Why 80% of AI Success Has Nothing to Do with Tech..

    Why 80% of AI Success Has Nothing to Do with Tech In this episode of the Future of Business Podcast, we sit down with Alex Velinov, Vice President of AI and Technology at MDG and author of the In AI We Trust newsletter. Drawing from a 35-year background that spans audio engineering and enterprise technology, Alex shares why successful AI integration is actually an 80% people challenge and only a 20% technology challenge. Alex engineered the advanced AI systems that fueled Tag Digital’s hyper-growth and ultimate acquisition by Freeman, and he breaks down the practical frameworks, risk-mitigation strategies, and human psychology needed to bulletproof your business in the AI age. We explore the hidden dangers of "Shadow AI," the step-by-step process of building internal digital employees, how search is shifting toward Large Language Model optimization, and why non-digital trade skills might be the most sustainable business opportunity of the next decade. Key Takeaways & Business Insights The 80/20 Rule of AI: AI technology is simple (binary logic), but human beings are complex. Overcoming workplace habits, fear, and friction accounts for 80% of an AI project's success or failure. The Danger of Shadow AI: Banning AI tools inside an enterprise does not stop employees from using them; it forces them to use personal accounts, leading to severe confidential and proprietary data leaks. Building an Internal AI Employee: Learn how Tag Digital built "Apollo," a 24/7 internal AI agent integrated into Slack, trained on company SOPs and HR data to eliminate repetitive internal questions. The "Bring Your Own AI" Future: Job candidate assessments are shifting from traditional credentials to candidates presenting the custom AI systems and agents they have personally built to solve problems. LLM Optimization (The New SEO): Driving organic visibility now requires structuring your website data with schema markup, publishing clear answer-based FAQs, and building brand authority across platforms like LinkedIn. Transparency Over Deception: When using AI-generated avatars or digital brand ambassadors, absolute transparency builds trust, whereas trying to trick audiences into thinking an avatar is human causes friction. 00:22 - Introduction to Alex Velinov and his background bridging audio engineering and enterprise AI. 01:57 - How a 35-year background in music shapes a human-centric approach to tech. 07:09 - The 80/20 Rule: Why human psychology is the hardest part of AI adoption. 08:35 - Two paths for workers in the AI age and the rise of "Bring Your Own AI". 11:42 - What "Shadow AI" is and why banning AI tools causes catastrophic data leaks. 17:56 - Scaling Tag Digital: Combining automation and LLMs to increase client volume without inflating headcount. 20:42 - The blueprint for building "Apollo," a 24/7 internal AI employee inside Slack. 29:33 - AI Avatars & Digital Influencers: Why transparency beats deception in marketing. 33:03 - The VECTR Framework: A practical method to audit, deconstruct, and AI-enable B2B workflows. 34:18 - Advice for small businesses: Securing your core data blueprint from day one. 44:42 - Optimizing for Large Language Models: How search and SEO are changing. 48:39 - Alex’s go-to AI tools: Claude, ElevenLabs, Midjourney, and workspace integrations. 57:39 - The contrarian view: Why non-digital trade businesses are a massive opportunity. Weekly Newsletter: Subscribe to Alex's newsletter, In AI We Trust, at inaiwetrust.com. LinkedIn: Connect with Alex Velinov directly on LinkedIn.

  5. Jul 31

    How a $20M Exit Founder is Solving Enterprise AI | Anuscha Iqbal (Qanooni AI)

    In this episode of The Future of Business Podcast, host Jay Dhillon sits down with Anuscha Iqbal, co-founder of Qanooni AI. After co-founding and successfully exiting her fintech business to Zip in a $20M deal, Anuscha set her sights on legal tech, one of the most risk-averse, highly regulated industries in the world. Today, Qanooni AI empowers law firms across 11 countries by embedding AI directly into Microsoft Word and Outlook while guaranteeing strict zero-retention data security. What you will learn in this episode: 🔹 The $20M Exit & Pivoting to AI: Moving from a 100 person fintech business to building a hyper-lean AI startup. 🔹 Overcoming Enterprise Security Roadblocks: How Qanooni AI earned the trust of corporate lawyers using stateless models that protect client data. 🔹 Eliminating AI Hallucinations: Why grounding AI models in authoritative, citation-backed databases is essential for high-stakes decisions. 🔹 The 12-Person Scaling Advantage: How small, AI-first teams are outperforming traditional enterprise tech workforces. 🔹 Future-Proofing White-Collar Jobs: Critical skills the next generation needs to succeed in an AI-driven workforce. If you are a business founder, executive navigating enterprise AI adoption, or interested in the future of work, this conversation delivers actionable insights from the frontlines of tech innovation. 🌐 Company Website: Qanooni AI 💼 Connect with Anuscha Iqbal: Anuscha Iqbal on LinkedIn 🎙️ Hosted by: Jay Dhillon 📲 Subscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating on Spotify! 🔗 Connect & Links

    How a $20M Exit Founder is Solving Enterprise AI | Anuscha Iqbal (Qanooni AI)

  6. Jul 22

    From 0 to 11 Million Downloads: Building a Global AR Tech Business

    Title: The Future of AI, AR, and Business Innovation with ArmenDiscover how Armen’s pioneering work in augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), and immersive content is transforming industries and reshaping business strategies. From organic growth to innovative use cases, learn how technology can democratise creation and unlock new revenue streams. In this episode: Armen shares the story of building an ecosystem of 11 million users organically starting in 2014 without external funding.The role of COVID-19 as a catalyst for exponential growth in AR and AI applications in education and enterprise.Predictions on the future of AR glasses replacing smartphones, powered by AI for seamless digital-physical integration.How AI democratizes complex content creation, enabling non-technical users to innovate.Real-world case studies: Coca-Cola AR campaigns, real estate virtual tours, and interactive museum and education experiences.Strategies for startups: Building value first, and avoiding risky venture funding based on hype.The potential impact of AI and robotics on future jobs—new roles in maintenance, human connection, and post-human experiences.Practical advice for business owners: Using AR/AI for marketing, enhancing customer experience, and operational efficiency.Addressing common misconceptions about adoption hurdles and the mass technology shift to smart glasses.Arlupa Official WebsiteArlupa YouTube Channel with tutorials and case studiesGoogle Scholar articles on AR in educationCoca-Cola AR Campaign CaseKenzo AR ActivationGoogle I/O AR glasses announcementMeta Ray-Ban Smart GlassesAI tools for content creationLinkedInTwitterThe conversation emphasizes the importance of creating memorable, engaging customer experiences through AR and AI.Advocates for a long-term, sustainable approach to innovation and startup growth, avoiding hype-driven fundraising.Encourages embracing the democratization of content creationTimestamps:00:00 - Armen’s journey to 11 million organic users since 2014 01:16 - The impact of COVID-19 on AR adoption and growth in education 03:30 - How COVID accelerated global AR and AI adoption in classrooms and businesses 04:45 - Armen's vision for AR glasses replacing smartphones and accompanying AI enhancements 06:05 - The development of digital content blending with physical environments via AR and AI 07:43 - The role of glasses for instant information, business applications, and efficiency gains 08:34 - Google's new AR glasses and the strategic focus on developer ecosystems 11:24 - Non-technical content creation with AI-powered tools and studio platforms 12:34 - Case studies: How brands like Coca-Cola, Kenzo, and real estate leverage AR for ROI 16:35 - Interactive experiences in tourism, real estate, and retail via AR 18:11 - Opportunities for business owners to innovate with AR and AI at low tech barriers 19:48 - Using AR for educational and entertainment purposes, increasing engagement and retention 22:16 - Startups: Focus on building valuable products rather than fundraising hype 23:52 - The AI bubble: Warning signs, market realities, and the importance of fundamentals 26:33 - The future job landscape: Maintenance, human connection, and post-human experiences 30:48 - Enhancing daily life and business operational efficiency with AR and AI 34:46 - The importance of mastering fundamental skills alongside AI tools 38:06 - The transformative potential for education, health, and personalized experiences 41:15 - Practical advice for business owners to differentiate through memorable experiences 44:24 - AI and the future of work: Embracing new roles and societal shifts 47:21 - Armen’s five-year outlook on jobs and societal changes driven by AI and robotics

  7. Jul 15

    AI Data Risk in 2026: What You Aren't Being Told About Your Privacy with Jamal Ahmed

    Podcast Show Notes Episode Title: AI Data Risk in 2026: What You Aren't Being Told About Your Privacy with Jamal Ahmed Episode Description: Most businesses are rushing to adopt AI without realizing they are handing over their most sensitive data. In this episode of the Future of Business podcast, we sit down with Jamal Ahmed, a globally recognized AI governance pioneer and the CEO of Kazient Privacy Experts. Famously dubbed the "King of Data Protection" by the BBC, Jamal has safeguarded the data of over a billion people worldwide. We unpack the massive privacy risks of using large language models, how to implement simple AI guardrails, and why treating data privacy as a strategic trust-builder can give you a massive competitive advantage. What We Discuss: The critical shift from standard GDPR to the new, high-stakes EU AI Act. The hidden dangers of inputting sensitive client information into free AI tools. How the lack of simple AI guardrails can leave your business exposed to crippling lawsuits and reputational damage. Why building data trust with your customers unlocks loyalty and massive revenue opportunities. A proven 5-step roadmap to pivot into a high-paying career in AI governance and data privacy. Resources & Books: Pre-order Jamal's New Book: The Easy Peasy Guide to the EU AI Act (Releasing August 3rd, 2026) – Grab your copy and access bonus masterclasses here: https://besteuaiactbook.com/ Jamal's Bestseller: The Easy Peasy Guide to the GDPR – Available on Amazon and AbeBooks. Privacy Pros Academy: Fast-track your career and become a trusted privacy expert through Jamal's 12-week accelerator program. Learn more at: https://privacypros.academy/ Kazient Privacy Experts: B2B consulting to help businesses adopt AI safely and put robust guardrails in place. Connect with Jamal Ahmed: LinkedIn: Search for Jamal Ahmed or use the direct link: linkedin.com/in/kmjahmed

  8. Jul 9

    How AI is Transforming Businesses ?! With AI Development CEO of the Year Tim Davies

    Unlocking the Power of AI in Business Growth with Tim DaviesDiscover how AI is transforming traditional businesses, with insights from Tim Davies, CEO of Project Rising, on leveraging AI for competitive advantage, managing change, and preparing for an AI-driven future. Whether you're an SME or a large enterprise, learn actionable strategies to integrate AI effectively.Main Topics Covered: Tim Davies' background and journey into AI, from hacking computers in 1991 to founding Project RisingThe evolution of AI capabilities from IBM Watson to GPT-4 and their impact on business servicesPractical AI toolkit: capturing business knowledge to automate decision-making and enhance operationsChallenges in AI adoption: overcoming team resistance and change management strategiesData privacy and security: deploying on-premises AI models versus cloud-based solutionsThe impending AI market bubble and potential corrections: implications for investors and businessesFuture of AI in education: fostering soft skills and communication for the next generationReal-world AI case studies: property surveys, legal processes, and lead generationPlaying and experimenting with AI: creating a culture of innovation within organizationsThe role of government and policy in regulating AI development and preventing a race to the bottomPreparing for job displacement: balancing automation with societal support measuresThe importance of human authenticity in AI-generated media and marketingNausica AI Toolkit - Rebranded from internal toolkitProject Rising - Tim Davies' companySkynet Chronicles Podcast - Covering AI developments and business impactOpenAI GPT-4 - Latest language modelIBM Watson - Early AI toolset for sentiment analysisGoogle Play AI Playtime - Innovative culture of experimentationLinkedInTwitterEmail: tim@projectrising.com or hello@nascica.comTimestamps:00:22 - Introduction to Tim Davies and his AI background 01:08 - The significance of AI in business growth and transformation 02:05 - The journey from early neural networks to modern GPT models 03:42 - The hype cycle and real capabilities of AI today 04:22 - How AI automation is revolutionizing project management 05:25 - Early tools: IBM Watson and the shift to GPT-3 and GPT-4 06:43 - Aligning AI solutions with business challenges 08:48 - Building enterprise AI toolkit Nausica for capturing business knowledge 10:54 - Managing team resistance and change adoption in AI projects 13:02 - Working with SMEs: team sizes and implementation strategies 14:43 - Data integration: connecting silos without data migration 16:06 - Privacy considerations and deploying on-premises AI models 18:16 - The future cost and scalability of AI services 22:23 - Speculating on AI market corrections and valuations 26:04 - Post-correction landscape: how successful companies will seize opportunities 27:01 - Case study: AI-enabled property surveying process improvement 29:16 - AI in legal and probate lead management applications 30:42 - Automating will drafting with AI 31:52 - Recommendations for SMEs starting their AI journey 33:02 - Fostering a culture of play and experimentation in AI 35:35 - Creating guardrails for AI use and avoiding ethical pitfalls 40:20 - The UK AI landscape and infrastructural challenges 43:16 - Job displacement, societal implications, and potential solutions 48:01 - Impact of AI on education and soft skills development 50:34 - Authenticity in AI-driven media content 53:34 - Business growth strategies: referrals, branding, and podcasting 54:08 - Contact info and future plans, including the 'Skynet Chronicles' podcastResources & Links:Connect with Tim Davies:Note: This discussion emphasizes adopting AI responsibly, fostering innovation, and preparing societal structures for ongoing technological change.

See All (166)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Future of Business Formerly known as the Business Mentor Podcast This podcast explores real-world business experience, ideas, and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship today. We interview and share insights with leading business owners, innovators, tech founders, and AI experts. Each episode is designed to give you practical direction, fresh thinking, and real strategies you can apply in your own journey—whether you're building, scaling, or adapting to a rapidly changing world. Your host is award-winning entrepreneur and iTunes #1 business podcast host.

Information