Microsoft Innovation Podcast

Mark Smith [nz365guy]

If you want to get your ideas or questions featured on an episode, please leave us a voicemail: https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/voicemail/ Dive into the future of work with the "Microsoft Innovation Podcast," exploring the intersection of People, Business, Technology, and AI.  Engage with expert guests—including thought leaders from Microsoft, industry innovators, and community specialists—who are redefining the world with advancements in AI, Cloud technologies, the Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and beyond. Every episode delivers a blend of in-depth discussions, practical insights, and actionable strategies tailored for professionals driving enablement and innovation. Join us across our five shows: The Power Platform ShowThe MVP ShowThe Copilot ShowThe Ecosystems ShowThe AI Advantage (coming soon)

  1. AI Agents Are Here - Are You Ready to Manage Them?

    1 NGÀY TRƯỚC

    AI Agents Are Here - Are You Ready to Manage Them?

    Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM   🎙️ FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/735   What if your next teammate wasn’t human - but an AI agent? In this episode, Stephanie Donahue, Modern Workplace Practice Lead at Avanade, unpacks how AI is reshaping the way we work, lead, and innovate. From the rise of digital coworkers to the resistance from IT and legal teams, Stephanie shares hard-won insights from the front lines of Microsoft 365 Copilot rollouts. Whether you're a tech leader or a curious professional, this conversation will challenge how you think about delegation, governance, and the future of your role.  🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS - AI agents are the new coworkers: Learn how agentic AI is transforming roles, workflows, and expectations across organizations. - Delegation is evolving: Managing AI requires a shift from output-based tasks to outcome-driven thinking - and new skills in digital delegation. - IT isn’t the enabler - it’s the blocker: Discover why risk, legal, and IT departments are often the biggest hurdles to AI adoption. - Shadow AI is already happening: Employees are using public AI tools to get work done, even when official tools are blocked. - Change enablement is non-negotiable: Successful AI rollouts depend on communities, champions, and continuous learning - not just licenses and training.  🧰 RESOURCES MENTIONED: 👉 Microsoft 365 Copilot – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/copilot 👉 Viva Engage – https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-viva/engage 👉 Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzf0yupPbVkqdRJDPVE4PtTlm6quDhiu7 Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    26 phút
  2. Think Harder, Not Less: The 'AI Makes You Dumber' Myth

    2 NGÀY TRƯỚC

    Think Harder, Not Less: The 'AI Makes You Dumber' Myth

    Hosts: Mark Smith, Meg Smith 🔴 For full Show Notes: https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/734 AI augments, it doesn’t replace. The hosts show how to pair human judgment with practical workflows: Copilot’s Researcher to gather sources, branching chats to explore options, and Markdown for efficient prompting. They debunk “AI makes you dumber” headlines, emphasise critical thinking, and share personal use cases from learning to health. The message is simple: bring your seed idea, use AI to scale it, and validate claims beyond headlines. Join the private WhatsApp group for Q&A and community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/E0iyXcUVhpl9um7DuKLYEz 🎙️ What you’ll learn - Use Copilot Researcher to compile internal and external sources fast - When to branch a chat to explore alternatives without losing context - Why Markdown outperforms JSON for most prompting tasks - How to combine personal data and medical advice more intelligently - Tactics to spot sensational headlines and verify claims ✅ Highlights “it’s not about AI replacing us” “bring the seed of our own human intellect” “we need to have our b******t radars on all the time” “Calling B******t. And it’s the art of skepticism in a data-driven world.” 🧰 Mentioned MIT study “Your Brain on Chat GPT”: https://www.media.mit.edu/projects/your-brain-on-chatgpt/overview/ Microsoft Research Podcast: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/research/podcast/ Book: “Calling B******t: The Art of Skepticism in a Data-Driven World” https://callingbullshit.org/ Connect with the hosts Mark Smith:   Blog: https://www.nz365guy.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nz365guy Meg Smith:   Blog: https://www.megsmith.nz  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megsmithnz Subscribe, rate, and share with someone who wants to be future ready. Drop your questions in the comments or the WhatsApp group, and we may feature them in an upcoming episode. Keywords: ai augmentation, critical thinking, markdown, json, microsoft copilot, researcher, branching chats, mit study, calling bullshit, alphafold, whatsapp, intelligence age Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    26 phút
  3. How AI Is Democratizing Development for Everyone

    3 NGÀY TRƯỚC

    How AI Is Democratizing Development for Everyone

    Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM 🎙️ FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/733     What does it take to move from AI experimentation to enterprise-scale impact? In this episode, Yina Arenas—VP at Microsoft—shares how Azure AI Foundry is helping developers and organizations build, customize, and deploy intelligent agents at scale. From the power of Microsoft Graph to the rise of agentic architectures, Yina reveals the tools, trends, and transformations shaping the future of AI development. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or a curious innovator, this conversation offers a clear roadmap for building AI that delivers real business value.  🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS - Microsoft Graph is the backbone of Copilot’s intelligence, enabling deep integration with organizational data across Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, and more. - Azure AI Foundry empowers developers to build agentic systems, offering tools for model customization, observability, and multi-agent orchestration. - AI is democratizing development, allowing non-traditional coders to create powerful applications without deep technical expertise. - Enterprise adoption is shifting from prototypes to production, with organizations like BMW, EY, and Providence deploying AI to automate workflows and enhance human capabilities. - Curiosity is the most critical skill for the AI era, as understanding and leveraging AI tools becomes essential across all professions.  🧰 RESOURCES MENTIONED: 👉 Azure AI Foundry – Platform for building and scaling AI agents: https://ai.azure.com 👉 Microsoft Graph – Unified data model powering Microsoft 365 experiences: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/graph/overview 👉 Copilot Studio – No-code tool for building custom AI agents: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-copilot-studio 👉 Microsoft Fabric – Unified data platform integrating structured and unstructured data: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/fabric  Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    26 phút
  4. Copilot in Action: Real Wins and Pitfalls in M365

    17 THG 9

    Copilot in Action: Real Wins and Pitfalls in M365

    Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM   🎙️ FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/732 What happens when AI meets the classroom, the boardroom, and the whiteboard? In this episode, Joshua Jones—Director of Training at Voltage Learning—shares how he’s helping professionals and educators unlock the full potential of Microsoft Copilot across M365. From overlooked features in Loop and Whiteboard to the evolving power of AI-generated files, Joshua offers a front-row seat to the real-world wins, challenges, and transformations happening at the intersection of tech and learning. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS - Copilot’s evolution: Early adopters faced limitations, but today’s Copilot delivers more reliable results—especially in Excel and Loop. - Whiteboard + Copilot = Idea Engine: Learn how Copilot can kickstart planning sessions with sticky-note prompts that spark collaboration. - Loop’s hidden power: Discover how Copilot in Loop streamlines project setup with smart templates and real-time collaboration. - Microsoft Graph demystified: Understand how Graph powers Copilot’s data access—securely and contextually. - Why formatting still frustrates: Hear why PowerPoint’s Copilot lags behind and what that reveals about AI’s current limitations.  🧰 RESOURCES MENTIONED: 👉 Microsoft Loop – Collaborative workspace with Copilot integration: https://loop.microsoft.com 👉 Microsoft Whiteboard – Digital whiteboard with Copilot support: https://whiteboard.microsoft.com 👉 Microsoft Graph – Data connectivity framework powering Copilot: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/graph/overview 👉 Perchance – AI character generator and storytelling tool: https://perchance.org 👉 Microsoft Designer – AI-powered graphic design tool: https://designer.microsoft.com 👉 Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzf0yupPbVkqdRJDPVE4PtTlm6quDhiu7  Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    25 phút
  5. AI Is a Mirror: Better Prompts, Better Results

    16 THG 9

    AI Is a Mirror: Better Prompts, Better Results

    Hosts: Mark Smith, Meg Smith 🎙️ FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/731 Most people treat AI like a search box, then complain when the answers feel thin. In this episode, Meg and Mark reframe AI as a conversation you practise on purpose. From a “five prompts a day” habit to stronger Custom Instructions, they show how intention, examples, and pushback turn generic outputs into useful work. You’ll also hear a practical te reo Māori learning story, why the word “should” is a red flag in voice interactions, and a calm way to choose tools without FOMO. Join the private WhatsApp group for Q&A and community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/E0iyXcUVhpl9um7DuKLYEz What you’ll learn - How to build prompting skill through small, daily reps, not one-off hacks. - How to use conversation structure (goal, audience, examples, iteration) for higher-quality outputs. - How to set effective Custom Instructions and ask the tool to interview you first. - How to spot weak guidance in voice mode and push back for evidence. - How to compare models sensibly and choose depth over distraction. Highlights “Five prompts a day is what you should be doing.” “They don’t come to AI with a ‘let’s have a conversation.’” “Instead of approaching it like a one-shot conversation or a search, I thought about approaching it as a conversation with a friend.” “AI is a mirror of who you are.” “If you’re a lazy prompter, you’ll get lazy answers.” “Ask me all the questions that you think you need to ask before I’m ready to create that output.” “The word ‘should’ is what’s important here.” “It’s very easy to say a tool sucks when you don’t use it.” “Different tools do different things.” “It’s still on me to make a decision with the information that I have.” “I’m going to do one a day.” “How lucky are we to be able to take that approach?” Mentioned ChatGPT Custom Instructions / “Customize GPT” Microsoft Copilot (Custom Instructions) Claude (Anthropic) Gemini (Google; on-device models referenced as “Nano Banana” in the episode) Grok (xAI) Toastmasters ISO standards; ANZ standards (Australia/New Zealand) “AI: The Mirror and the Tower,” Dr Oliver Hartwich (Aug 2025) https://www.nzinitiative.org.nz/reports-and-media/opinion/ai-the-mirror-and-the-tower/ kahu.code (te reo Māori learning tools) https://chatgpt.com/g/g-wXVoS6B3c-whakawhiti-reo-kahu-code?model=gpt-4o Show WhatsApp community (listener Q&A) https://chat.whatsapp.com/E0iyXcUVhpl9um7DuKLYEz Video versions available on Spotify and YouTube Connect with the hosts Mark Smith:   Blog: https://www.nz365guy.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nz365guy Meg Smith:   Blog: https://www.megsmith.nz  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megsmithnz    Subscribe, rate, and share with someone who wants to be future ready. Drop your questions in the comments or the WhatsApp group. Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    29 phút
  6. Why Low-Code Breeds Technical Debt

    15 THG 9

    Why Low-Code Breeds Technical Debt

    Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM  🎙️ FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/730 What happens when low-code platforms promise speed but deliver complexity? In this episode, Dovydas Grigaitis—a seasoned consultant and self-proclaimed Power Platform skeptic—pulls back the curtain on the hidden costs of low-code development. From technical debt to the blurred lines between developers and consultants, Dovydas shares hard-earned lessons and practical insights that challenge conventional wisdom. If you're building with Power Platform or exploring AI-driven automation, this episode will sharpen your perspective and help you build smarter, more scalable solutions. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS - Low-code isn’t always low-maintenance: Many canvas apps are built without scalable architecture, leading to costly rebuilds and technical debt. - The developer-consultant hybrid is rising: In low-code environments, technical professionals must also be customer-facing to deliver real value. - PCF controls unlock serious potential: From keyboard shortcuts to AI-powered OCR, custom controls can bridge gaps in Power Platform’s native capabilities. - Model-driven apps as backend-as-a-service: With the right setup, developers can build custom React frontends while leveraging Dataverse for security, logic, and hosting. - Flutter Flow vs. Power Platform: Dovydas highlights how other platforms better support transitions from low-code to pro-code development.  🧰RESOURCES MENTIONED: 👉 PCF Gallery – A community-driven library of Power Platform component framework controls - https://pcf.gallery 👉 Flutter Flow – A visual app builder with exportable code for pro-code development - https://flutterflow.io 👉Dataverse – Microsoft’s scalable data platform for model-driven apps - https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/power-apps/maker/data-platform/data-platform-intro  Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    33 phút
  7. From Hackathons to High Impact: Building Real AI Solutions

    10 THG 9

    From Hackathons to High Impact: Building Real AI Solutions

    Get featured on the show by leaving us a Voice Mail: https://bit.ly/MIPVM 🎙️ FULL SHOW NOTES https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/729    What happens when curiosity meets courage in the tech world? In this episode, Edit Kapcari shares how she transformed imposter syndrome into innovation—leading solution development at ORBUS and mentoring rising tech talent. From building AI-powered apps at hackathons to fostering internal communities that thrive on experimentation, Edit reveals how being a “sponge” for learning can reshape careers and company culture. If you're navigating the fast-moving world of AI, leadership, or Power Platform, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.   🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS - Hackathons as Launchpads: How Edit used hackathons to validate ideas, build confidence, and drive real business value with AI and Power Platform. - Mentorship That Moves People: Why creating space for experimentation and failure is essential to growing tech talent. - Building Learning Cultures: The importance of hiring “sponges” and fostering internal communities that share knowledge weekly. - Balancing Tech with Mental Health: How Edit integrates meditation, conscious eating, and psychology to lead with empathy and clarity. - Navigating the AI Landscape: Insights on staying current with AI trends, from generative interfaces to agentic systems, even when it’s not part of your day job. 🧰 RESOURCES MENTIONED: 👉 Microsoft's low-code development platform: https://powerplatform.microsoft.com 👉 Tools for integrating AI models: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/power-automate/custom-connectors 👉Lisa Crosbie’s YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/@LisaCrosbie 👉 Microsoft MVP YouTube Series - How to Become a Microsoft MVP - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzf0yupPbVkqdRJDPVE4PtTlm6quDhiu7  Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    29 phút
  8. Digital Fluency: Stop Collecting Info, Start Applying

    9 THG 9

    Digital Fluency: Stop Collecting Info, Start Applying

    Hosts: Mark Smith, Meg Smith 🎙️ Full Show Notes https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/728 Digital fluency isn’t about hoarding tips or binge-watching tutorials. It’s the applied, confident use of tools to achieve outcomes. In this episode, we unpack why “skills over knowledge” matters, how to build a learn-it-all mindset, and what one level deeper looks like in daily work. You’ll hear practical ways to handle change, reduce digital risk, and use AI productively without losing your judgement. Expect clear examples, from identity scams to proposal workflows, and a simple path to turn theory into practice. Join the private WhatsApp group for Q&A and community: https://chat.whatsapp.com/E0iyXcUVhpl9um7DuKLYEz What you’ll learn Digital fluency = applied, confident use of tools; you can’t binge 25 years of skills in a weekend. Shift from know-it-all to learn-it-all: use curiosity, small daily changes, and personal wins to beat change fatigue. Trust is the organising principle: adopt a Zero Trust posture, and pressure-test decisions against your values. Practical AI workflow: research context, constrain scope, write section-specific prompts, export structured outputs, and read aloud to check tone and accuracy. Cybersecurity hygiene: limit oversharing, enable MFA and passkeys, review platform defaults, and sense-check content with a second pair of eyes. Highlights “You can't live life on somebody else's knowledge.” “We can't binge watch 25 years of digital skills in a weekend.” “Applied confident use of digital tools.” “Just because you can, doesn't mean you should.” Mentioned Microsoft 365 Copilot and Microsoft Graph “Learn-it-all” mindset (Satya Nadella) Zero Trust security model ProSci change management (ADKAR) Microsoft Teams Administrator certification Speechify (text-to-speech) Passkeys and multifactor authentication Instagram privacy/settings, Facebook data policies Oura Ring, 23andMe (data and vendor trust considerations) Dynamics Minds keynote reference (Donna Sarkar) Connect with the hosts Mark Smith: Blog: https://www.nz365guy.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nz365guy Meg Smith: Blog: https://www.megsmith.nz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/megsmithnz Support the show Subscribe, rate, and share with someone who wants to be future ready. Drop your questions in the comments or the WhatsApp group, and we may feature them in an upcoming episode. Keywords: digital fluency, digital literacy, The Intelligence Age, skills over knowledge, learn-it-all mindset, AI skills, AI productivity, prompt engineering, Microsoft 365 Copilot, Copilot prompts, Zero Trust, cybersecurity hygiene, data privacy, social engineering, identity theft prevention Support the show If you want to get in touch with me, you can message me here on Linkedin. Thanks for listening 🚀 - Mark Smith

    38 phút
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Giới Thiệu

If you want to get your ideas or questions featured on an episode, please leave us a voicemail: https://www.microsoftinnovationpodcast.com/voicemail/ Dive into the future of work with the "Microsoft Innovation Podcast," exploring the intersection of People, Business, Technology, and AI.  Engage with expert guests—including thought leaders from Microsoft, industry innovators, and community specialists—who are redefining the world with advancements in AI, Cloud technologies, the Power Platform, Dynamics 365, and beyond. Every episode delivers a blend of in-depth discussions, practical insights, and actionable strategies tailored for professionals driving enablement and innovation. Join us across our five shows: The Power Platform ShowThe MVP ShowThe Copilot ShowThe Ecosystems ShowThe AI Advantage (coming soon)

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