Minerva Meets

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Tyler Sztuka , Founder of SZD Labs and Claude Community Ambassador, to explore what it really takes to move from the idea of an AI agent to successful implementation. While many organizations are eager to adopt agentic AI, few realize the foundational work required before an AI agent can deliver meaningful business value. We discuss how to identify...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I’m joined by returning guest ⁠ Thiago Ferreira ⁠ of ⁠ Elevate AI Consulting⁠ to break down AI search, what it is, why it matters, and how it’s changing the way we find and use information. Search used to mean typing something in, reviewing results, and deciding what matters. AI search is changing that experience. We’re now getting direct answers faster, more pers...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Hanno Ekdahl , CEO of Idenhaus , to discuss the foundations of Identity and Access Management (IAM) and why it plays such a critical role in cybersecurity. Identity may not always be the most visible part of a security program, but it sits at the center of how organizations manage access, protect systems, and maintain accountability. As companies g...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Casey Boggs of ReputationUs to explore what happens when a cyber incident becomes more than a technical problem, it becomes a reputation decision. We move beyond incident response checklists to talk about the part leaders often underestimate: communication, trust, and public perception. Casey shares how reputation risk shows up in real life, the ea...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Thiago Ferreira of Elevate AI Consulting to explore the human side of enterprise AI adoption. We move beyond AI tools and marketing claims to discuss what organizations are actually grappling with today training employees, setting governance, evolving org charts, and responding to growing pressure to prove AI ROI. Thiago shares what he’s seeing acr...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Zach Pastko and Loren Allston of W. Capra , a consultancy helping organizations transform through technology, data, payments, security, and customer experience. Together, we unpack what business transformation really looks like in an AI-driven world and why so many companies are stuck between curiosity and real impact. We explore the fundamentals:...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Mike Kintz , President of Wingman Payments , to talk about a part of your business that often flies under the radar, how you get paid. Payment processing isn’t just about moving money; it’s a core part of your cybersecurity and compliance footprint. Mike explains where small and mid-sized businesses often run into trouble, from hidden fees and char...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Rachael Narel, Ph. D . , CISA , Employee Engagement and Productivity Practice Manager at Interlink Cloud Advisors . Together, we move beyond the Microsoft Copilot hype and focus on how to roll it out successfully and turn AI potential into everyday productivity. We dive into the essentials like data quality, security and access controls, change man...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I sit down with Terry Keating , a seasoned executive who has led companies through major technology shifts. Together, we cut through the AI noise and focus on what really matters: how leaders can drive adoption with confidence . We dive into the essentials: mindset shifts, modeling the right behavior, involving end users early, and building trust with AI tools. Te...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I interview Jon Hobbs, a patent attorney and CEO of IP Solution . We discuss how patents apply to software, AI, and cybersecurity, clarifying common misconceptions and the impact of legal cases like Alice v. CLS Bank. Jon explains the patenting process, its importance for startups, and how patents can boost company valuation and attract investors. The conversation...

In this episode, I’m joined by Mike Wilson , CTO at Interlink Cloud Advisors to talk about Microsoft 365 Copilot, what it is, how it works, and why businesses are paying attention. We dive into how Copilot integrates directly into tools like Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams to help users draft emails, summarize meetings, generate reports, and more, all with the help of AI. Mike brings years of expe...

In this episode, I invited William West and Steven King, co-founders of Protect Schools , to discuss how AI is being used to transform school safety. We explore how their technology turns passive surveillance systems into proactive security tools alerting educators in real time to incidents like fights, falls, or the presence of weapons. Steven shares his perspective as a parent and edtech profess...

In this episode, I invited Jim McNamara, President and CEO of 8 Penny Labs, to discuss the competitive challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) in the digital landscape. We explore how technological advancements, particularly AI, are reshaping competition and customer expectations. Jim emphasizes the importance of innovation, strategic planning, and leveraging offshore resource...

In this episode, I sit down with Elisa Silverglade, Director of Intelligent Automation at Techromatic, to break down the key differences between artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, two technologies that often get mixed up. Elisa shares her expertise on how automation improves efficiency, particularly in the legal sector, while I explain how AI goes beyond automation by analyzing data, rec...

In this episode, I invited Gregg Knepper, President of Integrated Coverage Group, to discuss the critical topic of cyber insurance and what every small business needs to know it. Gregg emphasizes the necessity of cyber insurance for businesses of all sizes, debunking myths that small businesses are not targets for cyber attacks. He explains the differences between standard business policies and st...

In this episode, I interview Tom Cates, founder and president of The Brookside Group and Encompass CX. The discussion centers on customer experience (CX) and the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on it. Tom, with nearly 30 years of expertise in customer retention and loyalty, explains that CX is shaped by all customer interactions and their comparisons with competitors. He emphasizes the impo...

Welcome to the Season 1 Recap of Minerva Meets ! In this milestone episode, host Sonal Chandler reflects on the incredible insights and expert guests who made 2024 unforgettable—and sets the stage for what’s ahead in 2025. 📌 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How cybersecurity and AI innovation shaped this season’s conversations. Key takeaways from standout episodes, grouped into four themes: 🚀...

In this episode, I sit down with Walter Anderson, a seasoned vCISO and maritime cybersecurity expert, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities in securing global shipping and logistics. From real-world cyber threats to future-proofing with emerging technologies, we discuss the critical role of cybersecurity in protecting maritime operations and the global economy. Tune in for an insightf...

In this episode, I sit down with Shawn Flynn, aseasoned investment banker and podcast host to explore how AI is transforming the investment banking landscape. From streamlining operations to enhancingdecision-making, we discuss the most impactful AI applications and what the future holds for the industry. Tune in for a fascinating and fun conversationabout the intersection of finance and cutting-e...

In this episode of Minerva Meets, I’m joined byTrenelle Pierce, MBA, a cybersecurity leader specializing in enterprise risk management. Together, we break down Extended Detection and Response (XDR) to understand its role in cybersecurity. Trenelle shares her insights on how XDR enhances threat detection, strengthens security operations, and helpsorganizations stay ahead of emerging threats. We als...

In this episode, I'm joined by a panel of three distinguished experts: Chris Harrison, Keith Richard, and Byron de Jesus, to break down the recent CrowdStrike outage. Each guest offers their unique insights into the incident. Together, we unravel what happened, why it occurred, and most importantly, what lessons can be learned. The episode underscores the importance of being prepared, no matter th...

In this episode, I have the pleasure of hosting Joanie Connell, Ph. D., President of Flexible Work Solutions . Our conversation dives into AI Mediated Communication and the evolving dynamics of Human-to-AI Interactions. Dr. Connell brings her expertise to the forefront as we explore the ethical challenges and considerations surrounding AI technologies. We also examine the powerful impact of persua...

In this episode, I'm joined by Cathy Miron, CEO of  eSilo , a renowned expert in the realm of data protection and cybersecurity. Together, we delve into the intricacies of Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) and explore how businesses can effectively navigate this critical landscape. Cathy shares her vast experience in helping organizations protect their data, ensuring they meet compliance stan...

In this episode, I welcome Murali Kashaboina a seasoned AI expert and co-founder of AI solutions company,Entrigna, Inc.  As an AI advisor, practitioner,and researcher, Murali shares insights on crafting an AI strategy that’s right for your organization. Our discussion highlights how to get started with developing an AI strategy and roadmap as well as implementing AI in your organization.  We discu...

In this episode, I welcome Jeffrey Englander, a seasoned professional with experience in Cybersecurity, Governance/Risk/Compliance, Fintech, and Sustainability. Jeff offers his unique insights on creating effective cybersecurity roadmaps and strategies. Our discussion highlights the critical role ofcybersecurity in today's digital landscape, with a focus on protecting your data & organization...