Smidgen of Proof

The Invisible Frameworks Behind Every Decision Behind every tech rollout, strategy pivot, or quick “yes” in a meeting lies an unseen architecture, mental shortcuts, cultural norms, and tool-driven defaults that steer choices long before the data shows up. In this kickoff to our Summer Sessions, Christopher Donaleski peels back those layers, explaining why most organizations struggle not with what...

In this episode of Smidgen of Proof, we’re live from OTC 2025 with Christian Hearns, Senior VP at AIS, for an energizing conversation about the power of data, trust, and tech that actually delivers value in oil and gas. We dive into:Why engineers are still wasting time finding info in 2025 (and how AIS is solving that)The real problem behind digital transformation delaysHow AIS approaches digital...

In this episode, Christopher Donaleski talks with Eric Girard—author of Lead Like a Pro and host of the Management Development Unlocked podcast—about what it really takes to grow strong managers. They dive into soft skills, empathy, the danger of promoting top performers too quickly, and how AI is shaping leadership today. If you're leading a team, building future leaders, or rethinking how pe...

In this episode, Christopher Donaleski and Tony Alampi return for a deep, unfiltered conversation on AI's rapid evolution, human behavior, ethics, and whether we're chasing progress—or just keeping up. From quantum computing to ego-driven tech adoption, it's a thought-provoking exploration of where we are and where we're headed.

In this episode, Christopher Donaleski sits down with cybersecurity expert Reynaldo Gonzalez to discuss the evolving battlefield of cybersecurity in the age of AI. From AI-powered attacks to AI-driven defenses, they explore the growing reality of AI fighting AI—and what that means for businesses, individuals, and national security.🔹 Why most cyber breaches aren’t about technology—they’re about pe...

In this episode, we sit down at CERAWeek with Kevin , an industry expert who shares his insights on the rapid acceleration of AI, digital transformation, and the evolving landscape of technology in the energy sector. We explore the overwhelming pace of innovation, the challenges of navigating an event packed with AI discussions, and the critical question: How do businesses determine which AI solut...

In this episode of Beyond the Screen , Christopher Donaleski sits down with Kiesha King, Chief Experience Officer at Loyalty Centric, to explore how AI-powered video content is transforming branding and customer experience. They dive into the generational and industry-specific challenges of video marketing, the fear of being on camera, and how businesses can use AI avatars to scale their message w...

Impromptu conversation with the owner of OGGN, the world's top oil, gas, and energy podcast network. Live from NRG Convention Center at NAPE Expo 2025.

In this episode, Christopher Donaleski and Modesta Mahiga dive into the challenges of navigating global business shifts, AI disruption, and the evolving role of leadership in an unpredictable world. They discuss why trust is the foundation of change management , how organizations can stay relevant and agile , and the impact of AI, automation, and synthetic data on industries. Packed with bold insi...

Join Christopher Donaleski and special guest Laura Dean as they explore the art of managing change, leveraging Digital Adoption Platforms (DAP), and transforming training in the modern workplace. Through candid conversations and actionable strategies, discover how to overcome resistance, drive innovation, and create meaningful organizational impact. Whether you're leading a team or navigating chan...

In this episode, we dive into how AI is transforming the workplace, redefining skills, and challenging leadership. From automation to authenticity, we explore the balance between human intelligence and technology in shaping the future of work.

In this episode, Christopher welcomes Tony Alampi, owner of X Factor Consultants, to explore the evolving landscape of learning and technology. Tony shares his unique journey from video game development to e-learning consulting, offering insights into the challenges of learning in a fast-paced, tech-driven world. Together, they discuss why learning feels harder today, the role of gamification, and...

In this episode of the Smidgen of Proof podcast, Christopher Donaleski is joined by geoscience expert Ryan Jarvis for a compelling conversation about the fascinating intersections of geoscience, technology, and the evolving energy industry. Ryan shares insights into the art and science of understanding Earth's layers and how these discoveries help drive environmentally conscious energy solutions....

In this episode, we explore a pervasive illusion in the modern workplace—the belief that automation can substitute for the unique value that only humans provide. We delve into how this misconception fosters a culture overly focused on efficiency, often at the expense of genuine talent and the nuanced contributions of individuals. As companies increasingly push to optimize every process, we questio...

JB Farge, an ex-Subsea 7 employee who is now part of the Squint AI team, is our guest on this episode about automation and the future of assisted workforce training.

If you want to know how to innovate for less, this might be the show you want to check out. We discuss beer, explosives, taxes, and AI.

Join us as I interview Mike Nager about his published books in the smart manufacturing space. We discuss the future of the industry, the role people will play in the future, and why we should remain optimistic about the next industrial evolution.

How do we  identify success and how does that drive you forward. Are there patterns or specific areas we must focus around or is it just pure luck. This episode we dive into ways to change how we think about things and how we can create our own success. 

Sometimes it is better to just do it, other times it may require research and critical thinking. We dive into how speed and intelligence can help us or stop us and how to apply a little bit of logic in how we think of these two topics. 

How everyone and no one has the secret to success. You define your own success and we discuss a few things that will help you along your journey.