BPP TechSphere

BPP's School of Technology Podcast Show

Introducing "Techsphere"—a podcast series that breaks down the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in the world of technology. Each episode takes you on a deep dive into different aspects of the tech landscape, from data privacy and AI to blockchain, cybersecurity, and the future of work. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about how today's innovations shape our world, this series will keep you informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve. Tune in and explore the tech that’s driving change in every industry!

  1. MAY 10

    Exploring Mental Health in Tech : Are You Ignoring the Signs of Your System Overload?

    In this landmark episode of TechSphere, host Idris Fabiyi sits down with a "Mental Health Powerhouse" of colleagues from the BPP School of Technology: Minal (Performance Manager), Craig, and Rizwan (Degree Apprentice Coaches).  As the tech industry continues to demand an "always-on" mentality, this panel explores the critical need to prioritise the human beings behind the machines. The conversation dives deep into the early warning signs of burnout—from persistent fatigue to emotional detachment—and provides a roadmap for "Refactoring" your mental health hygiene.  Key highlights include: Neurodivergence Unmasked: Craig shares his personal journey with ADHD and Bipolar disorder, offering a unique look at the "superpower" and the struggle of hyperfocus in a technical environment . Psychological Safety: Minal explains how leaders can foster an environment where it is safe to fail, allowing for a "Growth Mindset" that strengthens team culture. Community Support: The team discusses vital external resources like Andy’s Man Club and Mind, emphasising that "asking for help" is the hardest—and most important—technical skill to master. Actionable Resilience: From mindfulness and movement to the importance of "Safe Spaces," the panel provides practical tips for professionals and learners alike to foster a sustainable career . This episode is more than a discussion; it is a commitment to building a technical future that is as empathetic as it is innovative.  I'm Idris Fabiyi, Head of Technology and Innovation at BPP University, Estio Training, Firebrand Training & host of the TechSphere podcast. I'm on a mission to demystify complex technology and make it accessible for businesses and learners. Follow me on LinkedIn: Idris Fabiyi My Medium.com profile: Read my Articles Get in Touch: idrisfabiyi@bpp.com

    50 min
  2. MAR 16

    The Governance Trinity: Why Data Protection is the Ultimate AI Enabler with Veronica Ayitey

    In this episode of TechSphere, host Idris Fabiyi sits down with Veronica Ayitey, Head of Data Protection at BPP, as businesses rush into the "Agentic Shift," data has become more valuable than oil. Veronica explains how to navigate the "Governance Trinity", the critical intersection of Tech, Information Security, and Data Protection. What we unpack in this episode: InfoSec vs. Data Protection:  Why Information Security protects but Data Protection secures.The "Baked Cake" AI Dilemma: We explore the friction between the GDPR’s "Right to Erasure" and large language models. Can an AI ever truly "forget" your data?The Hidden Cost of "Free" Tools: Why your business data is the currency paying for "free" AI, and how to navigate third-party vendor risks.Privacy by Design: How to embed data protection at the start of your AI buildout so you don't have to face the regulator later. Key Quote: "Privacy isn't what slows a business down, it's the reason why a business grows... Treat your data with the same care that you treat your vision."  - Veronica Ayitey About our Guest:   Veronica Ayitey is the Head of Data Protection at BPP (Lyceum Education Group). She specialises in turning complex privacy law into clear, actionable guidance that allows innovators and business to build cutting-edge tech while maintaining the highest standards of data security and consumer trust.  I'm Idris Fabiyi, Head of Technology and Innovation at BPP University, Estio Training, Firebrand Training & host of the TechSphere podcast. I'm on a mission to demystify complex technology and make it accessible for businesses and learners. Follow me on LinkedIn: Idris Fabiyi My Medium.com profile: Read my Articles Get in Touch: idrisfabiyi@bpp.com

    36 min
  3. International Women's Day 2026 - Give to Gain

    MAR 9

    International Women's Day 2026 - Give to Gain

    We’re kicking off our Women + [Tech Podcast] with an IWD26 special exploring this year’s theme, Give to Gain. In this launch episode, we introduce our mission: amplifying diverse voices in tech, sharing intersectional experiences, challenging stereotypes, and diving into the tech conversations that really matter. Host Gemma McKay is joined by three amazing degree apprenticeship learners, Ruby Nicholls, Toma Jonaityte, and Becky Grice, who share their tech career journeys, the support that’s shaped them, and how giving back helps them grow. This episode marks the start of a community‑driven Women + Tech series where anyone, from first‑day learners to seasoned tech pros - can get involved. Whether you want to be a guest, pitch a topic, or even try hosting, this is your space. We’re building a podcast series for everyone who cares about women and tech - a place to share discoveries, ask big questions, and explore what it truly means to find (and use) your voice in tech! This Women + Tech Podcast is hosted by Gemma McKay, Head of Programme at School of Technology at BPP University. If you want to get in touch, find her on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gemmamckay/ I'm Idris Fabiyi, Head of Technology and Innovation at BPP University, Estio Training, Firebrand Training & host of the TechSphere podcast. I'm on a mission to demystify complex technology and make it accessible for businesses and learners. Follow me on LinkedIn: Idris Fabiyi My Medium.com profile: Read my Articles Get in Touch: idrisfabiyi@bpp.com

    1h 23m
  4. MAR 4

    The Marketing Trainers Drop-in: Decoding the New Search: Navigating SEO, AEO, and GEO.

    In this episode of The Marketing Trainers Drop-in, host David Green is joined by Pav Sharma, Helen Evans, and a very special guest: Madison Forman. Madison was one of the first students to complete BPP’s Multi-Channel Marketer (MCM) program, securing a distinction before transitioning into a full-time marketing role at DCA Limited. The team dives deep into the "alphabet soup" of modern search: SEO, AEO, and GEO. As AI tools like ChatGPT and Meta AI change how users find information, the panel discusses whether traditional search is being replaced by a "conclusion-based" model where users no longer want links—they want answers. What you’ll learn in this episode: The Rebrand of SEO: Why the foundations of SEO are still the bedrock for AI-driven search (GEO).Agentic Behavior: A look at how AI agents are being trained on human behavior and what that means for content creators.The Apprentice Journey: Madison shares her experience balancing a high-pressure marketing role with the rigorous MCM apprenticeship and how she uses data to drive growth. The "Myth" of the Influencer: Madison clears up common misconceptions about working in social media and the reality of managing complex, multi-functional marketing roles.Featured Guest: Madison Forman – Digital Marketer at DCA Limited and BPP MCM Alumna (Distinction). Host & Panel: David – Digital Marketing TrainerPav Sharma – Marketing Coach Helen Evans – Head of Quality I'm Idris Fabiyi, Head of Technology and Innovation at BPP University, Estio Training, Firebrand Training & host of the TechSphere podcast. I'm on a mission to demystify complex technology and make it accessible for businesses and learners. Follow me on LinkedIn: Idris Fabiyi My Medium.com profile: Read my Articles Get in Touch: idrisfabiyi@bpp.com

    33 min
  5. FEB 27

    Lab Grown Confidence: The Validation Revolution - Frank Gartland CTO of Skillable

    In this episode of the Digital Edge, Idris Fabiyi is joined by Frank Gartland, the Chief Product & Technology Officer at Skillable, to dismantle the myth of the "Certified Expert." As AI continues to lower the barrier to entry for content creation, the value of "knowing things" is plummeting. The new premium? Skill Validation. Frank shares his deep expertise in "Challenge-Centric Learning" and explains why virtual labs are the only way to bridge the systemic lag between rapid AI adoption and workforce competence. What we unpack in this episode: The "Goldilocks" Learning Moment: Why 2026 is the year experiential learning finally hits its renaissance.Safe Failure: The importance of creating "low-stakes" environments where employees can break things, learn from the fallout, and build the "grit" required for modern tech roles.Beyond the Badge: Moving from participation-based certificates to data-driven performance metrics.The Role of AI in Labs: How AI is helping lab developers create more complex, real-world scenarios for learners to solve."AI can answer a multiple-choice test, but it can't replicate hands-on experience."  About our Guest: Frank Gartland is a pioneer in hands-on learning and skill validation. At Skillable, he oversees the transformation of traditional training into performance-based experiences, helping global organizations build "AI-Ready" workforces that can actually deliver results. I'm Idris Fabiyi, Head of Technology and Innovation at BPP University, Estio Training, Firebrand Training & host of the TechSphere podcast. I'm on a mission to demystify complex technology and make it accessible for businesses and learners. Follow me on LinkedIn: Idris Fabiyi My Medium.com profile: Read my Articles Get in Touch: idrisfabiyi@bpp.com

    42 min
  6. FEB 8

    AI vs. The Courtroom – Navigating the Legal Tech Divide with Daniel Scrace

    Is AI making legal access too easy?  Join Idris Fabiyi from BPP's School of Technology and trainee solicitor Daniel Scrace as they dissect the realities of AI in the legal field. As AI moves from "experimentation" to "embedding" within the UK economy, the legal sector finds itself at a crossroads. In this episode, Daniel shares his experiences, from early AI experimentation to navigating its use in social impact law. Discover how technology is both bridging and widening the justice gap, the surprising need for "poking" at AI, and why soft skills still reign supreme.  What’s inside this episode: The Rise of the AI Auditor: Why Daniel believes the most critical skill for a 2026 lawyer is the ability to audit AI outputs for facticity and tone.Bridging the Access Gap: A deep dive into how AI could potentially empower litigants in person, provided we can break through the paywalls of legal precedent.The QWE Advantage: How BPP’s Qualifying Work Experience is broadening the path to the solicitor's roll and why tech-fluency is now a mandatory condition of professional competence.A Warning on "Shadow AI": The risks of unedited AI-generated content in legal practice and the emerging challenges of negligence from "bad AI".Daniel cautions that while AI offers potential, it could lead to "overconfident litigants in person." Is the legal sector truly ready to embrace AI, or is there technical debt looming?  To find out more and to see our full range of programmes, please visit our website at: www.bpp.com  I'm Idris Fabiyi, Head of Technology and Innovation at BPP University, Estio Training, Firebrand Training & host of the TechSphere podcast. I'm on a mission to demystify complex technology and make it accessible for businesses and learners. Follow me on LinkedIn: Idris Fabiyi My Medium.com profile: Read my Articles Get in Touch: idrisfabiyi@bpp.com

    1h 6m
  7. JAN 26

    Decoding AI Agents: Augmenting, Not Replacing, Your Workforce - Sean Rafter and Jacob Reilly-Cooper

    Is your AI just talking, or is it actually doing? Most people use Large Language Models (LLMs) as a sophisticated search engine, but the real "Digital Edge" lies in AI Agents, systems that don’t just provide information, but execute tasks. In this deep-dive episode, Idris Fabiyi sits down with Jacob Reilly-Cooper (Head of Software Curriculum at BPP Firebrand) and Sean Rafter (Head of Curriculum Development-Data & AI) to dismantle the architecture of AI agents. From the "Flight Booking" analogy to the dangers of "Vibe Coding," we explore how to give the LLM "brain" a functional "body." We move beyond the hype to discuss the hard engineering required to make agents safe, deterministic, and truly useful for UK businesses. What You’ll Learn: Execution vs. Information: Why the future of tech isn't about prompts, but about orchestration layers and tool integration.The Deterministic Verifier: Why you need a non-AI "rule-book" to stop your agents from hallucinating your business into a corner.The Death of Vibe Coding: Why relying on "vibes" is the fastest way to accrue massive tech debt.Generative BI: How autonomous agents are transforming data cleansing from a manual chore into a strategic advantage.The Jobs Debate: Why integration, not replacement, is the path to societal benefit.The Guests: Jacob Reilly-Cooper: A technical strategist focused on the software frameworks that turn models into members of the team.Sean Rafter: A data expert bridging the gap between natural language and business intelligence.To find out more and to see our full range of programmes, please visit our website at: www.bpp.com  I'm Idris Fabiyi, Head of Technology and Innovation at BPP University, Estio Training, Firebrand Training & host of the TechSphere podcast. I'm on a mission to demystify complex technology and make it accessible for businesses and learners. Follow me on LinkedIn: Idris Fabiyi My Medium.com profile: Read my Articles Get in Touch: idrisfabiyi@bpp.com

    50 min

About

Introducing "Techsphere"—a podcast series that breaks down the latest trends, innovations, and challenges in the world of technology. Each episode takes you on a deep dive into different aspects of the tech landscape, from data privacy and AI to blockchain, cybersecurity, and the future of work. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about how today's innovations shape our world, this series will keep you informed, inspired, and ahead of the curve. Tune in and explore the tech that’s driving change in every industry!