Even in 2025, user experience remains an afterthought in many transformation projects. In this episode, the Extensia team explains why measuring “delight” is difficult, why digital initiatives are still tech-led, and how the rise of AI and low-code tools is changing the conversation. Kyler, Pradnya, and Nic break down how leaders can finally put people (rather than platforms) at the center of digital change.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/FFDHnUMMibY    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Digital transformation isn’t just about upgrading technology, it’s about designing for people. Kyler Cheatham speaks with Pradnya and Nic from Extensia, a Merkle company, about what experience-centric transformation really means and why human emotion, not software functionality, should drive design decisions. They discuss how user delight can define success and why a transformation that ignores experience will always fall short.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/FFDHnUMMibY    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Can doing the right thing cost you revenue? Kara Bombell and Kyler Cheatham explore why ethical AI isn’t a barrier to profit, it’s a blueprint for long-term sustainability. They cover how executives can balance risk and responsibility, why “phase two ethics” never works, and what it takes to make ethical AI a core part of business value instead of an afterthought.   Watch the full podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/live/eaE4TeZLXTI    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Automation shouldn’t erase the human element, it should enhance it. In this discussion, Kara and Kyler dig into how AI can be used to augment rather than replace workers, the difference between inspiring work and busywork, and how leaders can use automation to build capability instead of fear.   Watch the full podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/live/eaE4TeZLXTI    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

If AI adoption feels like chaos disguised as innovation, you’re not alone. Kara Bombell explains why 95 percent of enterprise AI initiatives miss the mark. From executive blind spots to short-term cost thinking, she and Kyler reveal the cultural and strategic gaps that keep “ethical AI” stuck in slide decks instead of practice.   Watch the full podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/live/eaE4TeZLXTI    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Ethics isn’t a checklist, it’s a culture. Kara and Kyler break down how leaders can embed ethical frameworks directly into AI projects, why human-first design matters, and how sustainable implementation depends on more than compliance documents. This episode explores what it means to create organizational ethics that last longer than the next software upgrade.   Watch the full podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/live/eaE4TeZLXTI    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Kara Bombell, co-founder of Ethic AI, joins Kyler Cheatham to unpack what “ethical AI” really means. The conversation explores how businesses can bridge the gap between academic theory and practical implementation, why trust is the foundation of every transformation, and how organizations can design AI strategies that amplify, not replace human capability.   Watch the full podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/live/eaE4TeZLXTI    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

SaaS platforms promise lower costs and higher efficiency, but the numbers don’t always add up. In this episode, Kristy Barber joins the conversation to examine whether cloud software actually saves companies money or simply moves expenses around. The discussion explores hidden costs like new admin roles, ongoing subscriptions, and integration fees, and why ROI models often look better on paper than in practice. Kristy and Adam share what finance leaders should evaluate before assuming technology will pay for itself and how to tell the difference between real savings and reclassified spending.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/n557EkJaWag    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Most technology projects don’t fail because of bad software, they fail because of bad budgeting. In this episode, Kristy Barber joins the conversation to unpack the most common financial mistakes organizations make when funding new technology. From underestimating total project costs to overlooking hidden expenses like integrations, travel, and internal labor, Kristy and Adam share real examples of how projects derail when budgets stop at the order form. The discussion also explores the cost of inaction, why small pivots can become massive budget risks, and how to build a realistic financial strategy that keeps implementations on track from kickoff to go-live.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/n557EkJaWag    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

When finance is focused on budgets and IT is focused on speed, alignment can feel impossible. In this episode, Kristy Barber joins the discussion to unpack why these two teams often operate on different timelines and how leaders can bridge the gap. The conversation explores how company structure, reporting lines, and budgeting cycles shape decision-making, and why many digital transformations stall on the hill of funding and unrealistic timelines. Kristy shares practical advice for setting expectations early, building cross-functional alignment, and ensuring technology priorities stay grounded in business outcomes, not departmental agendas.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/n557EkJaWag    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

The CapEx vs. OpEx debate has never been trickier. In this episode, Kristy Barber breaks down why modern accounting rules haven’t kept pace with the shift to subscription-based software and what that means for finance leaders. She explores how companies are managing SaaS costs under today’s GAAP and FASB standards, why the 80s-era playbook no longer applies, and how missteps in classification can distort your financial health. The conversation also covers why annual audits remain essential and how to navigate the gray areas as business models evolve.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/n557EkJaWag    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

When should a new system be treated as a capital investment versus an operating expense? In this episode, Kristy Barber joins the discussion to break down how finance and technology teams can align on budgeting for modern systems. The conversation explores how cloud software, subscriptions, and automation have reshaped accounting strategies and why misclassifying expenses can cause serious financial and compliance issues. From understanding depreciation rules to planning for ROI and exit strategies, Kristy shares how to structure tech investments the right way so they drive long-term value instead of creating hidden costs.   Watch the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/live/n557EkJaWag    Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Transformation is no longer slowing down; it is moving faster than most leaders can adapt. In this episode, Richard explains why legacy debt, both technological and human, is the biggest barrier to progress and how traditional vendors are struggling to keep up. Using General Motors’ acquisition and spinout of EDS as a case study, he breaks down what real reinvention looks like when it becomes a growth strategy instead of a one-time pivot. The discussion wraps with clear takeaways on how modern enterprises can reset, modernize, and lead in an AI-driven economy.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/1OIXEDvi5ww   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

What happens when digital workers enter the org chart? In this episode, we explore how AI is forcing leaders to rethink everything from cost structures to culture. The conversation dives into why successful companies are shifting from fixed to variable cost models tied to revenue and how AI can target inefficiency instead of simply cutting headcount. We also look at the growing divide between shareholders focused solely on returns and those factoring social impact into performance. For executives navigating digital transformation, this episode outlines the real tradeoffs, cultural risks, and practical steps to modernize without losing the human element.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/1OIXEDvi5ww   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

The world is shifting from industrial growth to digital reinvention, and the implications reach far beyond technology. In this episode, Richard breaks down how global GDP, workforce dynamics, and automation are reshaping the economy. He explains why the digital revolution isn’t about job creation but about redistribution of value and continuous reinvention. From digital workers that never sleep to individuals redefining their own operating models, this conversation explores how both people and organizations can adapt to a permanently changing future.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/1OIXEDvi5ww   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

How can organizations and individuals prepare for the digital revolution? In this episode, we explore why education, not hype, is the key to adapting to AI. Richard explains how companies can inform employees about what AI really means for their roles, income, and opportunities. The discussion highlights the importance of financial awareness, skill development, and wealth creativity to help people build stronger, more flexible careers in the era of digital transformation.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/1OIXEDvi5ww   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

Are AI digital workers replacing humans or changing how we work? In this episode, Richard explores how automation is reshaping the global workforce, why many daily tasks could already be handled by AI, and how shareholder priorities influence business decisions. He explains the rise of fusion work, where humans and digital workers collaborate, and how leaders can balance efficiency, profit, and human value in the modern workplace.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/1OIXEDvi5ww   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

When a supply chain disruption hits, what’s your first instinct as a leader? In this episode, Greg explores how today’s most effective supply chain leaders respond under pressure. Instead of assigning blame, they focus on customer impact, evaluate options, and empower their teams to make confident, data-driven recommendations. We discuss how this shift builds organizational maturity, improves agility, and turns disruption into an opportunity for smarter, faster decisions that strengthen the entire value chain.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/Ro9iRzlV7RY?feature=share   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

What questions should every organization ask when redesigning their supply chain? In this episode, we explore how businesses can align supply chain strategy with growth goals, customer expectations, and risk management. From understanding capacity and supplier diversification to balancing geopolitical uncertainty with capital efficiency, Greg breaks down how digital twins, AI, and scenario planning can unlock hidden value. Learn how proactive design, data visibility, and insurance-style planning help companies strengthen resilience, optimize cash flow, and build supply chains ready for what’s next.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/Ro9iRzlV7RY?feature=share   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial

What separates a reactive supply chain from a resilient value chain? In this episode, we explore one of the most underutilized levers in modern supply chain design: deep customer alignment. Greg explains how understanding customer growth, capacity planning, and long-term collaboration create a foundation for agility when disruption hits. From the Suez Canal and Baltimore Bridge incidents to global geopolitical shifts, we break down how leading organizations use real-world events as learning moments to strengthen their networks, build adaptive playbooks, and turn uncertainty into opportunity.   Watch the full episode here: https://youtube.com/live/Ro9iRzlV7RY?feature=share   Connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylercheatham/ Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/kyler_cheatham_tech/ Follow me on TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@kylercheatham Connect with The Confluencial https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-confluencial Follow The Confluencial on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.confluencial