Smarter, Strategic Thinking

Fortuna Data

In a world where technology moves faster than strategy, how do businesses keep their data and their future secure? Smarter, Strategic Thinking brings you conversations with leaders, innovators, and partners shaping the future of IT. From ransomware protection and storage innovation to smarter infrastructure decisions, each episode explores the strategies that matter most to today’s technology leaders. Hosted by Fortuna Data — trusted partners of IBM, Lenovo, Seagate, HYCU, QNAP, and Qualstar this podcast goes beyond buzzwords to deliver insights you can act on. Join us every episode for smarter conversations, sharper perspectives, and strategic thinking that keeps your business ahead.

Episodes

  1. 5D AGO

    80% of Data Isn’t Being Used But It’s Still Costing Money | Fortuna Data

    Send a text Is tape storage obsolete or strategically misunderstood? In this episode, we speak with Qualstar about the evolving role of enterprise tape libraries in modern data protection and archive strategies. As organizations face: Rising cloud storage costs Increasing ransomware threats Growing compliance and retention requirements Expanding petabyte-scale data growth many are reassessing where long-term data should live. Qualstar explains how modern tape infrastructure provides: Air-gapped ransomware protection Predictable, long-term storage economics Scalable archive for enterprise environments Support for compliance-driven data retention Integration within hybrid storage architectures For CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, and infrastructure leaders managing large data estates, this episode explores how tape fits alongside cloud and disk — not as legacy technology, but as a deliberate strategic layer. If you're reviewing backup architecture, archive policy, or cloud repatriation initiatives, this conversation offers practical insight into how enterprise tape supports resilience and cost control. Follow the podcast for more discussions shaping the future of enterprise IT infrastructure.

    19 min
  2. Data Leaders Are Sleepwalking Into Disaster Titan Warns Why | Fortuna Data

    JAN 21

    Data Leaders Are Sleepwalking Into Disaster Titan Warns Why | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text Cyber risk has changed, has your strategy? In this episode, Ray Quattromini from Fortuna Data sits  down with Keith Maskell, Head of Cybersecurity Sales at Titan Data Solutions, to break down what enterprise organisations must prioritise in 2026. From why identity is now the #1 attack vector, to how mid-market organisations can achieve Zero Trust without ripping out their infrastructure — this conversation challenges conventional thinking around resilience, cyber essentials, AI-driven threat response and leadership accountability. If you’re a CIO, CTO, CISO, or responsible for data, storage or security strategy, this episode will help you think bigger, plan smarter and defend better. Key themes: The cyber landscape enterprises are sleepwalking intoBoard education: why cybersecurity still isn’t understoodZero Trust in the real worldVendor noise vs real outcomesWhy AI won’t save you — yetThe economics of ransomware protectionHave any questions Contact us today: https://www.fortunadata.com/podcast/ 👉 Listen. Learn. Lead smarter. 🎙️ Smarter Strategic Thinking by Fortuna Data

    48 min
  3. Why Enterprises Are Moving Petabytes Off The Cloud Qstar Explains | Fortuna Data

    JAN 7

    Why Enterprises Are Moving Petabytes Off The Cloud Qstar Explains | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text Enterprise data is exploding but most organisations are still paying premium storage prices for information they rarely access. In this episode of Smarter Strategic Thinking, Ray Quattromini sits down with Dave Thompson from QSTAR to unpack how modern organisations can regain control of unstructured data, reduce storage costs, and build archive environments that actually scale. QSTAR has been operating in the archive space since 1997 and works across tape, cloud, object and disk environments giving IT leaders the ability to move cold and inactive data to lower-cost tiers without disrupting access, workflows or compliance. You’ll hear how QSTAR’s Archive Manager and Network Migrate platforms help organisations: • Consolidate unstructured data across environments  • Tier inactive files to tape, cloud or lower-cost disk  • Support SMB, NFS and S3 access across Windows and Linux  • Maintain long-term archive integrity without third-party backup tools  • Reduce pressure on expensive NVMe and primary storage tiers  • Build scalable, policy-driven archive strategies that grow over time The conversation also explores how AI, metadata and classification will shape the next generation of archive platforms and why organisations that don’t understand what data they own will struggle to manage future storage growth. If your infrastructure team is battling storage sprawl, escalating costs, or long-term retention challenges, this episode gives a practical, modern blueprint for sustainable archive strategy. Continue the conversation Explore archive strategies and full podcast resources:  https://www.fortunadata.com/podcast/ Follow Fortuna Data on LinkedIn for weekly infrastructure insights: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fortuna-data  Chapters  00:00 Welcome to Smarter Strategic Thinking 01:42 A career built in archive technology 03:17 What QSTAR actually does 04:24 Tape, cloud and object — how modern archives are built 05:12 SMB, NFS & S3 explained 06:08 Archive Manager & Network Migrate 07:32 Managing data sprawl & migration 09:44 Policy-driven archive environments 10:02 Capacity-based licensing model 11:20 Reducing storage cost pressure 12:26 Why QSTAR focuses on unstructured data 13:12 Archive without third-party backup tools 14:14 How archive capacity is evolving 15:45 The future: AI, metadata & classification 17:08 Governance, ownership & data responsibility 19:53 Universities, research & long-term retention 20:54 Closing remarks

    20 min
  4. How Modern Cyber Resilience Really Works With Panzura | Fortuna Data

    12/03/2025

    How Modern Cyber Resilience Really Works With Panzura | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text Relying on reactive backup alone is no longer enough. In this episode of Smarter Strategic Thinking, we sit down with Panzura’s CTO to explore how their hybrid cloud file and data services platform is built for cyber resiliency, data security, governance and compliance. We discuss how Panzura combines real-time anomaly detection based on machine learning, immutability, and detailed audit logging to detect threats quickly and recover from attacks in minutes – often without end users realising anything happened. You’ll also hear how their distributed file system lets global teams collaborate on the same data set without creating silos, and how AI is turning “passive storage” into intelligent data services. In this episode: Panzura’s role and focus going into 2026 and beyondWhy cyber resiliency, governance and data access are still major pain pointsHow their platform uses ML-based anomaly detection, immutability and audit logsDistributed file services for global offices and financial marketsMoving from passive storage to intelligent, AI-driven data servicesWhy backup is reactive – and what full resiliency really looks likeBehaviour-based ransomware defence and recovery in minutesIntelligent infrastructure and what IT leaders should expect in the next 2–5 years🎧 Explore more episodes: www.fortunadata.com/podcast Or have any questions contact us today: https://www.fortunadata.com/contact-us/

    27 min
  5. The Future of Multi-Cloud with Vawlt | Fortuna Data

    11/27/2025

    The Future of Multi-Cloud with Vawlt | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text In this episode, Ray speaks with Stefan Ferrari from Vawlt, the multi-cloud storage platform built for resilience, predictable costs and zero-knowledge security. You’ll learn how Vawlt:  • Stores data across AWS, Azure, GCP, Wasabi & Backblaze simultaneously  • Eliminates egress fees and API charges  • Protects data even if a cloud provider is breached  • Handles outages automatically — users never notice  • Enables hybrid cloud with on-prem + multi-cloud  • Deploys in under 15 minutes with no training  • Supports massive AI data lakes and analytics workloads Perfect for IT leaders looking to reduce cloud costs, improve resilience, or modernise their storage strategy. 🎧 Listen to more episodes: https://fortunadata.com/podcast

    29 min
  6. Reducing Cloud Costs With Hybrid NAS Infrastructure with QNAP | Fortuna Data

    11/19/2025

    Reducing Cloud Costs With Hybrid NAS Infrastructure with QNAP | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text This episode explores how enterprise storage is shifting away from cloud-only strategies and toward hybrid, performance-driven deployments using modern NAS platforms. Tom from QNAP shares insights on: Using NAS as primary data storageNVMe, 25G networking & multi-petabyte scalingRansomware protection with immutable backupsSupporting AI, VMs, and high-demand workloadsReal-world use cases across public sector & mediaThis is a must-listen for technology leaders rethinking data architecture, cost strategy, backup resilience, and performance in 2025. Powered by Fortuna Data Helping organisations build smarter infrastructure.

    28 min
  7. Future-Proofing IT: Lenovo on Cybersecurity, AI, and Edge Computing | Fortuna Data

    11/12/2025

    Future-Proofing IT: Lenovo on Cybersecurity, AI, and Edge Computing | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text Unlock the future of IT with Lenovo. Tim Brazier, UK Data Storage Solutions Specialist at Lenovo, joins Smarter Strategic Thinking to discuss the biggest challenges for businesses over the next 5–10 years and how Lenovo helps organizations overcome them. Learn about: Cybersecurity threats and zero-trust strategiesAI-ready infrastructure and hybrid AI starter kitsEdge computing, video processing, and machine learning at the edgeQuantum computing research and high-performance computing (HPC)Workforce transformation and subscription-based IT servicesSustainable IT practices including Lenovo’s Neptune water coolingLenovo’s ThinkShield and TrueScale services provide end-to-end security, AI, and hybrid cloud solutions, giving businesses the peace of mind to scale, innovate, and thrive. Subscribe for more insights from tech leaders shaping the future of IT. Want to learn more about Lenovo?  Contact us today! - https://www.fortunadata.com/contact-us/  Host & Founder of Fortuna Data - Ray Quattromini - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayquattromini/

    50 min
  8. The Future of Data Storage: AI, Data Growth & Seagate’s Vision | Fortuna Data

    11/05/2025

    The Future of Data Storage: AI, Data Growth & Seagate’s Vision | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text In this episode of Smarter Strategic Thinking by Fortuna Data, Ray sits down with Andy from Seagate, one of the world’s leading storage innovators, to explore how AI, data growth, and sustainability are transforming the way businesses manage information. From self-healing drives and AI-powered workflows to the rapid expansion of Seagate’s Live Cloud, this conversation dives deep into the future of enterprise data — how it’s created, stored, protected, and made valuable. Andy shares his 13-year journey with Seagate, explains why only 10% of the world’s data can currently be stored, and what that means for organisations trying to keep up with the exponential growth of information in the AI era. Whether you’re a CTO planning your next data strategy, or a business leader curious about how technology drives smarter decisions — this episode offers powerful insights into the evolving world of data infrastructure and innovation. 🎯 In This Episode: Why AI is reshaping the storage industryThe rise of Seagate Live Cloud and data sovereigntyHow Seagate’s self-healing drives reduce e-wasteThe truth behind HDD vs SSD in enterpriseWhat the future of storage looks like in the age of AI🎙️ Smarter Strategic Thinking is brought to you by Fortuna Data — helping organisations design and deliver smarter, more scalable IT infrastructure for the modern enterprise. Want to learn more about Seagate ? Contact us today! - https://www.fortunadata.com/contact-us/  Host & Founder of Fortuna Data - Ray Quattromini - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayquattromini/

    25 min
  9. Why Lenovo TruScale Is Changing IT Forever with Tim Freeth | Fortuna Data

    10/29/2025

    Why Lenovo TruScale Is Changing IT Forever with Tim Freeth | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text What if your IT infrastructure could scale as fast as your business grows? In this episode of Smarter Strategic Thinking, we sit down with Tim, Lenovo’s TruScale Channel Sales Lead, to uncover how TruScale is reshaping the future of enterprise IT through flexible as-a-service models — from GPU as a Service to AI infrastructure. If you’re an MSP, CTO, or business leader exploring infrastructure-as-a-service, this conversation dives deep into how Lenovo delivers flexibility, scalability, and performance — all under one managed service umbrella. Whether it's AI acceleration, GPU access, or simple cost management, TruScale brings enterprise-grade technology to every organization, large or small. Ray Quattromini - Host - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayquattromini/ Tim Freeth - Guest - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-freeth-4245019/ Subscribe to Smarter Strategic Thinking for real conversations with industry innovators. To know more about TruScale: https://www.data-storage.uk/lenovo-truscale/ #Lenovo #TrueScale #AIInfrastructure #Podcast #HybridCloud #ITInnovation #InfrastructureAsAService #DataCenter #SmarterStrategicThinking #FortunaData #TechnologyPodcast

    30 min
  10. VMware Alternative eEVOS & High Performance NAS CEO of EuroNAS Tvrtko Fritz | Fortuna Data

    10/15/2025

    VMware Alternative eEVOS & High Performance NAS CEO of EuroNAS Tvrtko Fritz | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text From Founder's Vision to Software Innovation — The Complete EuroNAS & eEVOS Story with Tvrtko Fritz! We dive deep into: Tvrtko's founding journey and the specific problem that sparked EuroNAS creation. How EuroNAS has navigated the tech landscape for over a decade with core values intact. What sets EuroNAS apart from other software virtualisation companies. The complete product portfolio — understanding what software solutions EuroNAS develops. eEVOS breakthrough — the game-changing alternative to legacy virtualisation platforms. Real-world examples of how eEVOS delivers scalable, reliable, and affordable solutions. The roadmap ahead — what's next for eEVOS and EuroNAS in the next 12-18 months. Get insider perspectives on software virtualisation innovation, entrepreneurship challenges, and the future of IT infrastructure. Don't miss this episode of Smarter Strategic Thinking! Want to learn more about EuroNAS and eEVOS? Contact us today! - https://www.fortunadata.com/contact-us/  Host & Founder of Fortuna Data - Ray Quattromini - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayquattromini/ Guest & Founder of EuroNAS - Tvrtko Fritz - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tvrtko-fritz-1750219/ Thank you for watching!

    32 min
  11. Is Tape Dead? Insurgo with Iain Hamilton | Fortuna Data

    10/07/2025

    Is Tape Dead? Insurgo with Iain Hamilton | Fortuna Data

    Send us a text Explore the truth behind tape storage with Insurgo’s Iain Hamilton! We dive deep into: How Insurgo became a global leader in tape management. Innovations in secure, sustainable data destruction. Why tape is still relevant for modern, secure, and cost-effective data strategies. Environmental and compliance challenges, and how to solve them smartly. Get expert advice on building an effective data management plan for your business. Don’t miss this episode of Smarter, Strategic Thinking! Want to learn more about Insurgo Media Contact us today! - https://www.fortunadata.com/contact-us/ Host & Founder of Fortuna Data - Ray Quattromini - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayquattromini/ Guest & Corporate Business Manager of Insurgo Media - Iain Hamilton -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/iain-hamilton-84358911/ Thank you for watching!

    43 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

In a world where technology moves faster than strategy, how do businesses keep their data and their future secure? Smarter, Strategic Thinking brings you conversations with leaders, innovators, and partners shaping the future of IT. From ransomware protection and storage innovation to smarter infrastructure decisions, each episode explores the strategies that matter most to today’s technology leaders. Hosted by Fortuna Data — trusted partners of IBM, Lenovo, Seagate, HYCU, QNAP, and Qualstar this podcast goes beyond buzzwords to deliver insights you can act on. Join us every episode for smarter conversations, sharper perspectives, and strategic thinking that keeps your business ahead.

Information

  • Creator
    Fortuna Data
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Smarter, Strategic Thinking
  • Show Website
    Smarter, Strategic Thinking