What’s keeping tech leaders up at night? According to CIO Simon Sayegh, it’s not just AI hype. It’s legacy systems, missing skill sets, and unclear outcomes.
Segmented Discussion Points:
1. Outcome-Driven Architecture, Not Agile Theatre
Why “agile in name only” is no longer good enough
The rising demand for capability-based partnerships
How CIOs can enable business outcomes without owning everything
2. Simplify or Sink: The Case for Fit-for-Purpose Tech
The hidden risks of going “best in class” vs. “fit for purpose”
Why modular and hybrid architectures are the new normal
Lessons from consolidation trends across enterprise tech
3. The AI Reality Check
Why “guardrails first” is Simon’s golden rule for AI adoption
What boards should really be asking about AI projects
The difference between solving a problem and chasing a trend
4. Partner Ecosystems and Trusted Networks
The modern CIO’s secret weapon is who they can call at 5pm on a Friday
When to outsource, near-source, or in-source (and how to decide)
The underrated art of asking, “Help me understand the value you bring”
5. Culture Isn’t Motherhood Stuff. It’s a Strategy
Why work teams are more like sporting teams than families
The cost of keeping your “best performer” with the worst behaviour
How shared KPIs can transform internal relationships
6. Two-Speed Tech Teams and Career-Defining Projects
Why CIOs must deliver quick wins while building long-term foundations
The uncomfortable truth: most organisations don’t know what’s going on under the hood
Reframing AI as “just another project” but with way more risk
👋 Follow ThunderLabs on LinkedIn for more sharp, human takes. Or subscribe to our newsletter for fresh episodes and smarter thinking.
What do you do when the strategy slides are polished, the goals are lofty, and yet… nothing moves? In this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan sits down with Robert Winter—thinker, writer, leadership philosopher—to unpack why good people get stuck in toxic environments, how complexity messes with traditional management, and why real leadership feels more like gardening than goal-setting.
Whether you're a team lead, a CEO, or just the person quietly holding the business together, this one's for you.
Segmented Discussion Points:
1. Leadership Without the Title
What is “discretionary boundary spanning” and why does it matter more than job titles?
Why the real leaders in your organisation probably don’t sit in the executive team.
The invisible work that keeps businesses alive (and why it rarely gets rewarded).
2. Complexity vs. Complication
How to tell if you're managing a complicated process or leading through complexity.
Why traditional management breaks down in uncertain environments.
The role of language and shared understanding in navigating the unknown.
3. The Curse of Overpreparedness
How fear of looking foolish creates paralysis (even in seasoned leaders).
Why the most competent people often hesitate—and why that’s not a bad thing.
Learning to speak, even when you don’t have all the answers.
4. The Problem with “We’re a Family”
Why calling your team a family can backfire—and what to say instead.
Navigating organisational growth without losing trust or psychological safety.
What to do when people love the work but not the workplace.
5. The Art of Situational Leadership
Knowing when to talk, when to do, and when to direct.
How to manage without micromanaging.
What makes a good manager feel like a leader.
6. Rituals of Reflection and Thinking Time
Why your best team members aren’t just busy—they’re thoughtful.
The leadership skill no one teaches: creating space for thinking.
How “malicious compliance” can kill momentum.
7. Writing to Think, Not Just to Publish
Why writing privately is still a leadership skill.
The surprising power of choosing the right word.
Building influence by showing your thought process, not your credentials.
Chris McGowan sits down with technology and business leader Alistair Burton. From the realities of justifying IT costs to the uncomfortable truth about our industry’s talent pipeline, this episode is a charged-up unpacking of what tech leaders are really wrestling with in 2025.
Discussion Points:
1. The Power of Showing Up
What happens when you ask better questions and truly listen
The underrated career value of curiosity and connection
Alistair’s own reflections on what his podcast taught him about leadership and growth
2. The Top 5 Things on Tech Leaders’ Minds for 2025
AI: Innovation enabler or shiny distraction?
Cybersecurity: Why even mature organisations can’t let their guard down
Data & Analytics: Why we’re still fighting the same battles from 20 years ago
Talent: The hidden cost of always hiring “ready-made” professionals
Cost Justification: Why proving value is still harder than it should be
3. Enterprise Architecture: Proving the Value Before the Roof Leaks
Why architecture is hard to measure… until it’s too late
Tactics for justifying the existence of functions that prevent disasters
Breaking down cost in a language execs actually understand
4. Innovation, Risk, and Playing with AI
The difference between exploring AI and implementing it
What smart experimentation really looks like
How to fund innovation without being told to “just trust me”
5. The Talent Pipeline Problem (and a Possible Fix)
Why most organisations aren’t growing their own talent
The lost art of hiring for potential over polish
A throwback to a nearshore innovation model that might be due for a comeback
If you’re a tech leader navigating AI, budgets, or hiring headaches, this one’s for you. Subscribe to ThunderCast on your favourite platform and follow us on LinkedIn to stay charged-up with more no-fluff insights.
In this refreshingly real episode of ThunderCast, General Manager of ThunderLabs, Ali McKee, joins host Chris McGowan for a deep conversation on career transitions, motherhood, and leadership. Ali shares how she made the leap from print to tech, the power of pushing past self-doubt, and what it really takes to show up — at work, at home, and in life.
Whether you're re-entering the workforce, navigating growth as a parent, or just feeling a bit stuck in your career, this one’s for you.
Episode Breakdown
1. From Safe to Stretch: The Career Leap
2. Mental Load & Modern Leadership
The invisible weight working parents carry—and how to handle it
Why judgement-free flexibility is more than a nice-to-have
The reality of showing up for your kids and your team
3. Vulnerability vs Strength: The Balancing Act
Why being open is a competitive advantage (and not a liability)
The kind of support returning professionals really need
How to spot the difference between growth and overwhelm
4. Choosing Work That Works for You
What to look for in your next job (it’s not just salary or title)
Why believing in the mission makes the hard days worth it
Ali’s take on financial freedom, fulfilment, and flexibility
5. Advice for Re-Entry and Reinvention
How to prepare for job interviews after time away
Tips for regaining confidence in a changed job market
Why openness to learning might be your greatest asset
In this special morning edition of ThunderCast, Chris sits down with Abdullah Ramay, CEO of Pablo & Rusty’s Coffee Roasters, to grind through the big questions in leadership, business, AI, and, of course coffee. Abdullah’s obsession with craft, culture, and continuous learning turns this casual chat into a masterclass on building resilient, human-centric businesses in an era of rapid change.
1. Coffee Economics 101 (Without Putting You to Sleep)
- Why global coffee prices have skyrocketed and why your $5 flat white might still be too cheap.
- The difference between commodity and specialty coffee (spoiler: Arabica snobs, you’re not wrong).
- How climate, supply chains, and consumer expectations are reshaping the coffee industry.
2. Product, Service, Experience… Emotion?
- Coffee as a ritual, not just a beverage.
- The four lenses every business should use to evaluate their offering.
- The surprising power of a good cup and why it’s not about caffeine.
3. Obsession > Passion: The Case for Caring Too Much
- Why great leaders are often slightly obsessed (in the best way).
- How motivation can be cultivated and why your team’s energy is contagious.
- Why sweeping the floors still matters, even when you’re CEO.
4. Human Touch in a Robotic World
- What AI could mean for the hospitality industry — from barista bots to emotion-aware service.
- The risk of replacing connection with convenience.
- Why 'made by humans' might be the next premium feature.
5. Scaling Culture Without Burning the Beans
- Why great founders must build great leaders.
- How to keep your values intact while growing the business.
- The delicate balance between indoctrination and inspiration.
6. Technology, Transformation & Tinkering With the Future
- Why some businesses are stuck bolting AI onto broken systems.
- Why innovation should start now—not after your ERP upgrade.
- Build the laser, then the Death Star: how to experiment at low risk and high reward.
7. The Secret Sauce? Curiosity
- Abdullah’s self-confessed superpower: an unstoppable urge to learn.
- Why curiosity might be the only long-term career hack that matters.
In this episode of ThunderCast, Chris McGowan sits down with Hugh Le, founder of Juxtabyte and former data lead at CBA, to talk about the unseen costs of building something new, the cultural layers of stoicism, and the inevitable collision of AI, governance, and ethics. They dig into the modern workplace, the shift in workforce dynamics, and whether suffering is just a part of the human condition or something we’re learning to opt out of. This is a conversation for anyone navigating change, whether in tech, leadership, or life itself.
Episode breakdown
1. From the Bike to the Mic
Chris and Hugh reflect on their past cycling experiences, particularly their shared suffering during long rides.
The unexpected journey from endurance sports to sitting across from each other on a podcast.
2. The Power of Shared Suffering
How shared physical and mental endurance fosters deep connections.
The parallels between enduring physical hardship (like long-distance cycling) and navigating professional and personal challenges.
Why suffering together leads to more meaningful conversations and relationships.
3. Riding for a Cause
The contrast between physical illnesses (which demand immediate treatment) and mental health struggles (which are often suffered in silence).
How different cultures handle mental health challenges and the need for greater awareness.
4. Cultural Stoicism & The Silent Struggle
Hugh reflects on stoicism in Asian culture
Chris compares this to the British "mustn't grumble" attitude and explores whether suffering in silence is helpful or harmful.
Is enduring hardship quietly an inherent cultural trait, or is it a universal human experience?
5. The Body Keeps the Score
Chris shares his experience of avoiding the book The Body Keeps the Score
The impact of unprocessed emotions over time and the importance of finding healthy outlets.
6. Genetic Memory & The Science of Inherited Trauma
Can suffering be passed down through DNA, or is it purely environmental?
The nature vs. nurture
7. The Raging Frontier of Science & Ethics
The tension between scientific advancements and society’s ability to ethically process them.
AI, genetic modifications, and the inevitable march toward augmentation—just because we can, should we?
8. The Founder's Journey: Risk, Conviction & Getting Started
Hugh’s transition from executive management to launching Juxtabyte.
The importance of risk assessment and deciding how much to invest in a new venture.
9. Momentum & The Universe's Role in Success
Hugh’s belief that the universe rewards momentum.
How unexpected support, mentorship, and resources materialise when you put yourself out there.
10. Learning to Be a Jack of All Trades
The reality of wearing multiple hats as a founder.
The importance of being "just good enough" to get started and building expertise along the way.
11. Goal-Setting: Holding Plans Lightly & Revising Up
Why rigid goal-setting can be limiting.
Trusting that growth happens in ways you can’t fully anticipate at the start.
12. The Future of Work: Flexibility, Gig Economy & Specialisation
The shift towards fractionalised work.
Chris draws a comparison to Uber and Airbnb, questioning whether employment models will follow the same trend.
Hugh explores how AI and automation may redefine job roles and career stability.
13. The Intersection of Product & Services: A New Business Model
Chris’s belief that the future isn’t just product or services, but a hybrid model.
Why companies struggle to break away from rigid service-based or product-based thinking.
14. The Uncommonly Held Belief That Drives ThunderLabs
Chris shares his deeply held belief that recruitment and talent deployment must evolve.
The long-term vision of building a human-technology interface that ensures meaningful, sustainable work for top talent.
Chris McGowan sits down with Mark Drasutis, a digital leader with 25+ years of experience spanning media, product development, and digital transformations. They explore how businesses have evolved alongside digital, the importance of simplifying customer experiences, and how to drive product value in today’s tech-savvy market.
Discussion Points
The Digital Thread through Mark’s Career
The steel thread of Mark's career: Simplified customer experiences and effective team building.
How early career experiences in media and AOL shaped his approach to product strategy.
Why digital isn't just a "thing"—it’s a mindset.
Making the Transition: Operational Excellence & Team Building
How leadership thrives on embracing uncertainty.
Building diverse teams to spark innovative solutions.
Why "alignment" is crucial—5 millimeters of misalignment at the top can lead to a 500-meter gap in execution.
Digital Consulting & Ecosystem Thinking
Chris and Mark dive into why every business is now a digital business.
Why organisations need to rethink their operating models to stay competitive.
Finding balance: data-driven decisions vs. the "tummy compass."
Data, Signal, and Simplification in Product Development
The complexities of being data-driven and making data-augmented decisions.
What makes Amplitude stand out in enabling businesses to understand customer behavior.
Mark’s philosophy: everything is a work in progress—embrace continual improvement.
Don’t miss this episode if you're ready to rethink your approach to digital experiences and leadership. If you enjoy the conversation, hit Subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts on how digital transformation is shaping your business!
Chris McGowan dives deep into a wide-ranging conversation with Kim Spithill, Head of Delivery, and Shane Mercer, Head of Emerging Technology. Grab your virtual notepads because the trio covers everything from the elusive nature of innovation to the complexities of AI in tech delivery.
Whether you're here to geek out over technical architecture or hear how AI could change the very fabric of our future, this episode packs a charged-up punch of insights and a healthy dose of philosophical pondering.
Discussion Points:
Fast Delivery vs Long-Term Value:
How do fast delivery and long-term value coexist in software development?
The role of good architecture and avoiding technical debt.
Socratic thinking: Essential vs. Accidental Complexity in engineering.
AI and Software Engineering:
Shane explains how AI could redefine the pace of development.
Are we ready for AI-driven software and how can we prepare?
The lessons Shane learned from building and selling companies.
The Philosophy of Innovation:
Is innovation a parasite on current performance? Shane and Kim debate the nature of progress.
The Socratic method in tech leadership—asking better questions.
What role do human limitations play in technical innovation?
Leading Delivery in an Evolving World:
Kim shares what it takes to lead delivery teams in the modern tech space.
Delivery Leadership vs. Project Management: Why traditional approaches aren't cutting it.
The importance of shared understanding in delivering value, not just output.
The Future of AI & Humanity:
Will AI ever reach superintelligence, and what does that mean for humanity?
Why Shane believes AI could lead to a golden era rather than dystopia.
Ethical considerations and AI’s potential role as a guardian for humanity.
If this episode got you thinking as much as it did us, be sure to follow ThunderCast for more episodes that bring tech insights to life.
Chris McGowan chats with Samuel Redmond, Director of the Adapt Group, about the conundrum many businesses face — how to innovate effectively while navigating the hype of AI. Sam unpacks the innovation dilemma and how AI, specifically Gen AI, can help overcome business challenges, streamline strategy, and drive value.
Discussion Points
The Innovation Dilemma
The AI Dilemma: Hype vs Reality
Using AI to Solve the Innovation Problem
Agile: The Path to Incremental Success
The Human Factor: Cultural and Behavioural Changes for Transformation
Chris McGowan sits down with Elsa Pahnke, a Learning and Development Consultant with a wealth of experience and insights on the value of mature workers in today’s fast-paced tech industry.
They dive deep into the biases that plague hiring practices, explore the untapped potential of seasoned professionals, and discuss how the industry can pivot towards inclusivity and innovation.
Music and Career
The Reality of Ageism in Tech
The Neuroscience of Experience
Ageism’s Impact on the Global Economy
Breaking Down Barriers in Hiring
Wisdom over Youth: The Strategic Advantage
Don’t miss out on this insightful discussion! Subscribe to ThunderCast on your favourite podcast platform and follow us on LinkedIn to join the conversation. Share your thoughts on ageism in tech, and let’s work together to foster a more inclusive industry.
Welcome to another electrifying episode of ThunderCast. Chris McGowan sits down with tech visionaries Anthony Perera (CDAO at La Trobe University) and Mal Wanstall (VP Data & AI at Cochlear) to talk about one of the most puzzling questions: Why does Australia lag in innovation?
They also explore the impact of cultural and political factors and the role of data and AI in driving future growth.
This episode is a must-listen for tech leaders and innovators looking to understand the unique challenges and opportunities in Australia's tech ecosystem.
Listen to learn more about:
1. The Innovation Dilemma in Australia
- Why does Australia struggle with innovation on a broad scale?
- The impact of a duopolistic market on competition and innovation.
- How political and immigration policies influence the innovation landscape.
2. Cultural Barriers to Innovation
- The risk-averse nature of Australian culture and its impact on business.
- Comparisons with more innovation-driven cultures around the world.
- The challenge of fostering a climate conducive to innovation in a comfortable society.
3. Data and AI in Innovation
- The current state and future potential of AI in driving innovation.
- Why AI returns might not be immediate but are essential for long-term growth.
- The dual role of data as both an enabler and a barrier to innovation.
4. The Role of Discomfort in Innovation
- How discomfort and risk are essential drivers of innovation.
- The importance of pushing boundaries and taking risks in tech development.
- Personal anecdotes on risk-taking and innovation from Anthony and Mal.
5. Future of Tech Leadership
- The evolving role of data in leadership and decision-making.
- Why future CEOs might need a strong background in data.
- The importance of data literacy across all organisational levels.
If you found this insightful, don’t forget to subscribe to ThunderCast for more charged-up insights from tech leaders. Follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation. Visit our website for additional resources and stay updated on upcoming episodes!
In this episode of ThunderCast host Chris McGowan sits down with Greg Magill, the former Head of Digital Development and Digital Delivery at Westpac. Greg brings 18.5 years of experience from one of Australia’s oldest and largest banks to discuss the intricate dance between digital innovation and traditional business models.
They explore:
1. Innovation Roadblocks in Legacy Systems
2. Simplifying the Digital Transformation
3. Mastering MVPs and Gradual Rollouts
4. Balancing Internal and External Teams
5. The Future of Digital Identity and Data Privacy
Don't miss out on the wealth of insights from Greg. Subscribe to ThunderCast to stay updated on the latest episodes. Follow us on LinkedIn and join the conversation.
Chris McGowan and guest Stan Belikoff dive into the benefits of bringing together delivery and development teams.
They explore how this integration can speed up processes, improve project quality, and the role of security in it all.
It’s a conversation packed with insights on making teams work better together for more effective tech projects.
Some of the topics they explored:
The transformative power of integrating delivery and development teams.
The critical role of aligning engineering and architecture for project success.
The non-negotiable need to embed security from the get-go.
Forget boring resolutions! This episode of ThunderCast is a hilarious and heartwarming ride with Chris McGowan and his special guests, Frankie and Mac McGowan (his kids!). Join them as they crack open fortune cookies and dish out unexpected wisdom for 2024. From the importance of quality hugs to the art of admiring without desiring, Frankie and Mac's insights are as sharp as their wit. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even shed a tear as they remind you that the best things in life are often the simplest. So ditch the self-help gurus and grab a fortune cookie — ThunderCast's got the advice you actually need to thrive in 2024.
Get ready to dive into a conversation with Rowena Millward, author of "Uncomfortable Growth: Own Your Reinvention."
Chris McGowan chats with Rowena about her journey, from simplifying complex concepts for busy minds to navigating the ups and downs of leadership. Along the way, they explore the importance of vulnerability, the power of community, and the art of shifting from a life of constant striving to one of effortless ease.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to unlock their hidden potential, embrace the unexpected twists and turns of life, and discover their true calling.
Questions explored:
- How can we turn "uncomfortable growth" into an opportunity for personal and professional development?
- What are some practical strategies for simplifying complex information and making it actionable?
- How can leaders overcome isolation and build a supportive network?
- What are some signs that you might be on the path to discovering your true calling?
- How can we harness the power of collective wisdom to accelerate our growth?
- What are some tangible ways to bring your whole self to work and create a more authentic professional experience?
Join Chris McGowan and Mark McPherson as they unravel the artistry of historical storytelling and the gritty journey from idea inception to holding the published work in hand. Mark sheds light on the emotional toll, the necessity of brutal feedback, and the emotional investment required to birth a historical fiction masterpiece.
Discover how Mark's devotion to authenticity led him to tread the lands his characters roamed in the ancient world. It's a narrative of perseverance, the pursuit of authenticity, and the undeniable love for the old world that crafts a historical fiction author.
Chris McGowan sits down with organisational strategy expert Martin Kearns once again to talk about the intricacies of OKRs, the challenges leaders face in aligning their teams, and driving results. From the pitfalls of emotional decision-making to the nuances of inside-out vs. outside-in approaches, this episode is a masterclass in leadership and strategy. Tune in to discover how to navigate the choppy waters of Q2 and beyond.
Join Chris McGowan and the Director of Security Engineering at Vectra.ai Chris Fisher for an eye-opening episode of ThunderCast, where they delve deep into the world of cyber security.
This episode focuses on Purple Teaming, a hands-on approach that simulates malicious attacks and penetration testing to fortify cyber defenses.
Chris sheds light on how Vectra AI is revolutionising the way organisations identify and counter threats.
In today's episode, Chris McGowan and Adam Long dissect the potent techniques of one of the FBI’s greatest negotiators, Chris Voss. From calibrated questions to data-driven decisions to tactical empathy, learn how to negotiate like your life depends on it — even if you’re just haggling over a contract.
Whether you're a vendor, a client, or someone trying to navigate executive-level conversations, this episode provides invaluable insights into the methods that can help you succeed.
In this engaging episode of ThunderCast, co-founders Chris McGowan and Adam Long take you behind the scenes of their recent Book Club session with the ThunderLabs team. The book in focus? "Never Split the Difference" by former FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss.
Together they explore the insights and wisdom distilled in the book, reflecting on the principles of tactical empathy and the nuances of intelligent negotiation. Drawing from their experience in the tech world and their passion for transforming lives, they dive into the relevance of these concepts in daily decision-making and business leadership.
