In this episode of The Innovantage Podcast, host Max sits down with Dennis van Bregt, Head of Data Analytics & AI at allnex, a global leader in materials science. With over 30 years of experience in data, analytics, and AI, Dennis has witnessed the evolution of data from dusty spreadsheets to intelligent, self-learning systems, and shares how mastering “data literacy” is the key to thriving in the AI era. Together, they explore how data-driven thinking is transforming organizations, why most companies still misuse AI, and how to build a workforce ready for a future powered by automation, analytics, and ethics. From the EU AI Act to data governance, unstructured data, and even VR-powered training, this conversation dives deep into the future of work – where humans and machines truly collaborate. What you’ll learn: ➡️Why “data, data, data” is still 80% of the job even after 30 years of innovation.➡️ How AI is changing the game for unstructured data like PDFs, meetings, and transcripts.➡️ Why true data literacy could save your company from AI chaos.➡️ How the EU AI Act and GDPR are reshaping responsible innovation.➡️ Why Dennis built a private, company-safe version of ChatGPT  and what it teaches about data security.➡️ The surprising link between storytelling and successful tech adoption.➡️ How to teach AI and data skills to everyone from factory workers to executives.➡️ The creative side of analytics: why dashboards are the new art form.➡️ What the workplace of 2040 might look like (hint: AR glasses, smart assistants, and shorter workweeks).➡️ Why AI won’t replace humans, but those who use AI will replace those who don’t.➡️ How bias, polarization, and misinformation threaten AI’s potential and what we can do about it.➡️ Why Dennis still believes the future of AI is bright if we stay curious, critical, and human.    Connect with Our Guest Dennis van Bregt – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-van-bregt-2a868b1/    Website –  https://www.van-bregt.com/ Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/   🎧 Listen Now Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc...  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast...   Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/posts/?feedView=all  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial  

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, Max dives into the intersection of defense, security, and innovation with Edvinas Kerza – Managing Partner at Scalewolf and former Vice Minister of Defense of Lithuania. Edvinas brings decades of experience in cybersecurity, defense planning, and strategic innovation to the conversation, offering a rare insider perspective on how military needs drive technological breakthroughs. Together, they explore why defense startups matter, how Lithuania is building a hub for dual-use technologies, and what lessons Europe can learn from global leaders like Israel and the U.S. Edvinas shares stories from his time shaping Lithuania’s defense strategy, insights on hybrid warfare, and why venture capital is critical for scaling military tech. What you’ll learn: ➡️ Why most modern innovations from the internet to AI have military roots.➡️ The rise of dual-use technologies and why they’re shaping the future.➡️ How Lithuania is attracting global talent and building a defense innovation ecosystem.➡️ The unique challenges of funding defense startups and mitigating security risks.➡️ Why reputation and compliance are non-negotiable in military tech.➡️ How battlefield-tested solutions from Ukraine are redefining competition.➡️ The role of AI, drones, and neural computing in next-gen defense.➡️ Why Europe must rethink manufacturing and regain its competitive edge.➡️ What it takes to pivot from politics to private equity in the defense sector. If you’re curious about where defense meets entrepreneurship and how innovation can secure freedom, this episode is a must-listen. Connect with Our Guest Edvinas Kerza – https://www.linkedin.com/in/edvinaskerza/ ScaleWolf – https://www.scalewolf.vc/ Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/   🎧 Listen Now Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc...  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast...   Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/posts/?feedView=all  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial

In the new episode of the Innovantage Podcast, host Max had a pleasure to speak with Professor Rudy Aernoudt, a venerated author, speaker, founder of EBAN, and political activist with a vast range of expertise. From economics and politics to education and technology, they explore how business meets tech to give you a competitive edge.   Professor Aernoudt shares his unique perspective on what truly drives innovation. We unpack the debate between the European and US startup ecosystems, the critical role of business angels, and the surprising challenges holding Europe back. Rudy also introduces a revolutionary new concept: the "Zebra Economy," a model that combines profit with social responsibility to create a more sustainable future.   What you'll learn: ➡️ Is "work-life balance" a myth? The power of passion over a 9-to-5 job. ➡️ The dangers of AI in education and the importance of critical thinking. ➡️ The Europe vs. US startup debate: Where does innovation truly flourish? ➡️ How regulation is holding Europe's startup scene back. ➡️ The real reason why there aren't enough female founders being funded. ➡️ Why "Zebra Economy" is the future of sustainable business. ➡️ The crucial role of Business Angels in Europe's startup landscape. ➡️ The importance of syndication and building a strong network of business angels. ➡️ The twin challenges of fundraising and exits in the European venture world. ➡️ What the "Escalar" program means for the future of European funding.     Connect with Our Guest Rudy Aernoudt –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/paernoudt/ Official website – https://rudyaernoudt.be/   Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov –  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/   🎧 Listen Now Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc...  Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast...   Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/posts/?feedView=all  Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial  

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, Martynas Kairys — General Manager at ZEDGE (formerly Director of AI Strategy & Development at Shift4), AI-driven growth leader, and international keynote speaker — shares how to turn AI from scattered experiments into an operational advantage across a complex, regulated business. With 20+ years across military, logistics, real estate, investment banking, and tech, Martynas blends strategy with sleeves-rolled-up execution.   We unpack the AI vision he led at Shift4, global scale, compliance-by-design, and how those lessons translate to ZEDGE and beyond, along with a pragmatic playbook for measurable wins.   What you’ll learn: ➡️ How leaders evolve from “AI interest” to an AI operating model ➡️ Shift4’s AI mission: payments innovation, product velocity, and global scale ➡️ Lessons from M&A scale-ups (incl. Finaro) and what that means for data + AI ➡️ Building in regulated spaces: PCI DSS, GDPR, and risk-aware experimentation ➡️ Resource-based learning vs. memorization — upskilling that actually sticks ➡️ When AI should automate tasks vs. augment complex decisions ➡️ GenAI in content: quality bars, ethics, and trust in finance ➡️ Talent strategy: near-term productivity vs. growing junior pipelines ➡️ A day-in-the-life playbook: internal Copilots, HR/merchant support use cases, KPIs ➡️ Lightning predictions: tools, myths to kill, must-read book, bold call for 2030   Connect with Our Guest Martynas Kairys: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martynaskairys Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov   🎧 Listen Now Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0?si=aab60a9ec2864ba2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437   Follow for More Insightful Episodes: Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial   Innovation at scale isn’t about more tools — it’s about clear strategy, disciplined integration, and continuous learning. This conversation is your field guide to building real advantage with AI.

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, Thibaud De Keyzer — CEO of Mobilexpense, Board Advisor at TechWolf, and Strategic Advisor at Fortino Capital — joins us to share a CEO’s playbook for leading AI transformation. From boardrooms to AI task forces, Thibaud is at the center of how leaders can move beyond buzzwords and turn artificial intelligence into a competitive edge. Under his leadership, Mobilexpense is evolving into an “autonomous enterprise” — where AI doesn’t just optimize operations, but reshapes what leadership and decision-making look like in the digital age. Discover how to: ➡️ Lead AI from the CEO seat — and why delegation isn’t enough ➡️ Spot real business value in AI projects (and filter out the hype) ➡️ Justify AI investments with ROI, not buzzwords ➡️ Embed AI into company culture and overcome resistance ➡️ Structure AI task forces and governance for sustainable execution ➡️ Stay curious as a CEO and unlearn outdated leadership habits ➡️ Compete in SaaS markets where AI is no longer optional, but essential Thibaud’s perspective brings both the investor’s lens and the operator’s urgency. Whether you’re a founder, executive, or simply curious about how AI is changing the future of leadership, this episode delivers practical insights on turning vision into execution. Connect with Our Guest Thibaud De Keyzer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thibauddekeyzer Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial Innovation isn’t just about adopting new tools — it’s about how leaders choose to guide their companies through change. This conversation is your inside look at how a CEO turns AI into a driver of resilience and growth.

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, Max Golikov sits down with Aušrinė Armonaitė — former Lithuanian Minister of Economy & Innovation and now Head of Investor Relations at prop-tech crowdfunding leader InRento. Disclaimer: Investing involves the risk of losing some or all of the amount invested, so it is recommended to diversify your investments and evaluate them responsibly. From parliamentary debates to startup boardrooms, Aušrinė has seen first-hand how policy and innovation collide — and how the right leadership can turn crises into catalysts for growth. Discover how to: ➡️ Build a national innovation ecosystem that attracts investors and empowers startups ➡️ Leverage policy to fuel economic resilience during global disruptions ➡️ Transition from public service to tech leadership — and bring the best of both worlds with you ➡️ Use global perspectives to position Europe in the worldwide innovation race ➡️ Spot the future trends in prop-tech, fintech, and emerging technologies Aušrinė brings a rare dual lens — the policymaker’s grasp of macroeconomic levers and the founder’s agility to execute in fast-moving markets.   Whether you’re scaling a startup, shaping policy, or simply curious about how nations foster innovation, this conversation offers actionable lessons from both sides of the table. Connect with Our Guest Aušrinė Armonaitė – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ausrine-armonaite Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/   🎧 Listen Now Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0?si=aab60a9ec2864ba2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437   Follow for More Insightful Episodes: Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial   Innovation doesn’t just happen in labs or boardrooms — it’s shaped by the policies, partnerships, and people who dare to think differently. This episode is your front-row seat to how it all comes together.

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, Max Golikov sits down with Denis Leysen — Co-Founder at noah., AI adoption strategist, and former enterprise consultant with deep roots in family entrepreneurship. Together, they dive into what it really takes to implement AI in real-world organizations — especially when you're bootstrapping, not burning VC cash.   Discover how to: ➡️ Build AI solutions that SMEs actually want (and can afford) ➡️ Bootstrap a startup in the enterprise space — without losing control or momentum ➡️ Navigate the hidden blockers of enterprise AI adoption ➡️ Learn from legacy: how Denis’s family consultancy journey shaped his leadership mindset ➡️ Embed a data culture across teams and lead sustainable transformation   Denis brings a grounded, practical lens to AI — not the hype, but the hands-on work of building, selling, and embedding innovation in companies that don’t have time (or budget) to waste. Whether you’re a founder, consultant, or digital leader inside a traditional business, this episode is full of real lessons from the frontlines.   Connect with Our Guest Denis Leysen –   / denis-leysen-a3956a85   Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov –   / maxim-golikov     🎧 Listen Now: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast...   Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast:   / innovantage-podcast   Sigli:   / sigli   Instagram:   / sigli.gang   TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial   AI is moving fast — but lasting impact comes from mindset, not just models. If you're building innovation from the ground up, this episode is essential listening.

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, host Max Golikov sits down with Adriana Grüschow — Industry Lead Business Development Manager at Zühlke Group and a seasoned expert in smart connected solutions, complex innovation, and sustainability in the industrial sector. Together, they explore what it really takes to bridge hardware with AI — and how IoT is reshaping not just products, but entire business models. Discover how to: ➡️ Move beyond buzzwords and align AI with real-world business challenges ➡️ Navigate the shift from selling products to delivering services — and why this matters now more than ever ➡️ Scale IoT initiatives from proof of concept to profit-driving solutions ➡️ Understand the impact of the EU Data Act — and why data ownership is the next big frontier ➡️ Lead successful digital transformation in traditional industries Adriana brings rare clarity and cross-disciplinary insight — blending engineering expertise with business strategy to tackle the complex challenges of industrial innovation. Whether you're building IoT products, leading transformation efforts, or just trying to separate the hype from the opportunity, this conversation is packed with actionable lessons. 🎙 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Connect with Our Guest Adriana Grüschow – https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriana-grueschow/ Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/ Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial Tech is changing. Business models are evolving. If you're serious about leading innovation — this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, host Max Golikov sits down with Remco Janssen — founder of Silicon Canals, one of Europe’s leading tech media outlets, and a tireless advocate for European innovation, startups, and smart tech policy. Together, they unpack how Europe can tell its own story — and why now is a critical moment for startups to get strategic about media, policy, and AI. Discover how to: ➡️ Avoid the most common PR mistakes startups make — and tell stories that actually get coverage ➡️ Think beyond the funding announcement and build long-term visibility in European media ➡️ Understand how regulation shapes trust — and why it doesn’t have to kill innovation ➡️ Navigate the role of AI in Europe’s economic future — from productivity to policymaking ➡️ Explore what trustworthy AI really means — and where Europe can lead globally About the guest: Remco brings a no-nonsense, clear-eyed view of where Europe stands today — and what it’ll take to build a more confident, competitive, and collaborative tech ecosystem across the continent. If you're building in Europe, scaling a startup, or just curious about how PR, policy, and AI intersect — this episode is packed with practical insights and bold perspectives.   🎙 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Connect with Remco - https://www.linkedin.com/in/remcojanssen/  Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/ 🎧 Listen Now: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0?si=aab60a9ec2864ba2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437 Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial  

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, host Max Golikov is joined by Dominique De Cooman — Founder, CTO, and co-CEO of Dropsolid, a leading Digital Experience Company based in Ghent, Belgium. Get ready for an insightful conversation as Dominique takes us through the evolution of Digital Experience Platforms (DXPs) and how AI is shaping the future of digital ecosystems.   Discover how to: ➡️ Understand the shift from traditional CMSs to intelligent, AI-driven Digital Experience Platforms. ➡️ Harness AI for personalized content at scale and drive more effective engagement. ➡️ Integrate open-source solutions like Drupal to enhance flexibility and control in enterprise and government solutions. ➡️ Prepare for the future of AI agents, orchestration layers, and fully autonomous content workflows. ➡️ Navigate the complex balance between openness, sovereignty, and business agility in the digital world. Dominique shares his incredible journey from leading software engineering projects to transforming Dropsolid into an AI-first digital product company. He dives deep into the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI into digital experiences, the importance of open-source sovereignty, and how future digital ecosystems will be shaped by intelligent agents and orchestration layers. If you're passionate about the future of AI, digital transformation, and how these technologies are revolutionizing digital experiences, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will help you stay ahead of the curve. 🎙 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Connect with Our Guest Dominique De Cooman – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominiquedecooman/ Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/ 🎧 Listen Now: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0?si=aab60a9ec2864ba2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437 Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial Embrace the future of digital experiences. Tune in now!

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, host Max Golikov sits down with Stijn Staes — Founder of Stappen met Stijn, trusted transformation counselor, and podcast host — for an eye-opening conversation on leadership, diversity, and the evolving partnership between humans and agentic AI. Whether you’re navigating your first leadership role or driving transformation at scale, this episode is packed with practical insights and thought-provoking ideas to shape the future of work. Discover how to: ➡️ Build truly diverse teams — and avoid the most common (and costly) mistakes organizations make. ➡️ Create psychological safety so every voice is heard, valued, and empowered to contribute. ➡️ Lead large-scale organizational change with minimal turnover and maximum trust. ➡️ Identify and nurture hidden talent within your teams, turning career development into a retention superpower. ➡️ Strike the right balance between human intuition and AI-driven insights, ensuring ethical and effective leadership in a tech-driven world. Stijn shares hard-won lessons from his journey — from youth movement leadership and nursing to guiding executive teams through complex transformations. He reveals practical strategies for fostering psychological safety, building multicultural teams, and making technology serve both people and progress. You’ll also hear candid stories of resistance and resilience during major restructurings, along with Stijn’s take on the leadership trends that will define the next decade. If you’re ready to future-proof your leadership style and build organizations where diversity, ethics, and innovation thrive together, this episode is your next playbook. 🎙 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Connect with Our Guest Stijn Staes – https://www.linkedin.com/in/stijnstaes/ Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-gol... 🎧 Listen Now:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast... Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inno... Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gangTikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial Lead with empathy. Lead with vision. Lead with purpose. Tune in now!

In this episode of The Innovantage Podcast, host Max Golikov interviews Thiago de Faria, Senior Solutions Architect at AWS and a recognized Team Topologies expert, to discuss how organizations can modernize their architecture, scale engineering teams effectively, and implement AI strategies that actually work. Whether you're a CTO, software architect, DevOps lead, or tech-savvy founder, this episode offers actionable advice on how to transform your tech teams, workflows, and organizational design using proven frameworks like Team Topologies, cloud-native architecture, and grounded AI implementation.   Key Topics Covered ➡️ What is Team Topologies and why it's a game-changer for scaling tech teams. ➡️ How to modernize your cloud architecture to support agility and innovation. ➡️ Avoiding common mistakes in org design and AI adoption. ➡️ How cloud has evolved into a business enabler, not just infrastructure. ➡️ The role of psychological safety, storytelling, and curiosity in tech leadership. ➡️ How to integrate AI/ML meaningfully into enterprise systems.   About Our GuestThiago de Faria helps global organizations adopt cloud-native architectures and transform their engineering culture. He’s an advocate for kind, scalable tech teams, a former EMEA Startup Architect Leader, and an expert in bridging business outcomes with modern engineering practices. Connect with Our Guest Thiago de Faria – https://www.linkedin.com/in/thiagoavadore/Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov – https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/ 🎧 Listen Now & Transform Your Pitch Game Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0?si=aab60a9ec2864ba2 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437 Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial Modernize with purpose. Lead with empathy. Architect for agility. Tune in now!

In this episode of The Innovantage Podcast, host Max Golikov explores the science and art of pitching with Robin De Cock — Professor of Entrepreneurship at Antwerp Management School and author of Mastering the Pitch. Whether you're a startup founder, investor, or just want to level up your storytelling, this episode delivers powerful, research-backed advice to help you win hearts and minds in milliseconds. Discover how to: ➡️ Make a lasting impression in just 150 milliseconds using proven persuasion techniques. ➡️ Use humor strategically (without crashing your credibility). ➡️ Build long-term relationships with investors across cultures and geographies. ➡️ Leverage AI tools to refine and future-proof your pitch — without losing the human touch. ➡️ Avoid the most common (and costly) pitching mistakes.   Robin shares unforgettable stories from the pitch trenches — including hilarious fails — and offers practical advice that anyone can apply right away. You’ll also get a sneak peek into his upcoming talks at Supernova and the official launch of Mastering the Pitch at AMS. If you're serious about mastering your pitch, this episode is your shortcut to standing out in a crowded investor landscape.   🎙 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!Connect with Our Guest Robin De Cock –   / robin-de-cock-7137868   Connect with Max (Host) Max Golikov –   / maxim-golikov     🎧 Listen Now & Transform Your Pitch Game Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc... Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast...   Follow for More Insightful Episodes Innovantage Podcast:   / innovantage-podcast   Sigli:   / sigli   Instagram:   / sigli.gang   TikTok: @innovantage / @sigliofficial

In this episode of the Innovantage podcast, we explore how AI agents are reshaping sales and business strategy with Frank Sondors, founder of Salesforge. Frank is leading the charge in building AI-powered sales engines that don’t just automate — they outperform.   Why Listen? In this episode, we unpack what AI agents actually are, how they differ from basic automation, and how companies can use them to create smarter, faster, and more personalized sales processes.   Key Insights from the Episode: 🔹 What AI agents are — and why they’re not just fancy chatbots 🔹 Where humans still beat AI (and where they don’t) 🔹 Personalization vs. automation — can we have both? 🔹 Buy vs. build — what’s smarter for AI in sales? 🔹 Salesforge’s playbook — how Frank’s team builds cutting-edge AI agents 🔹 Real risks — bias, trust, and cultural shifts in sales teams 🔹 Future trends — what AI in sales will look like in 5 years   Connect with Frank Sondors: 🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franksondors/   Watch, Listen & Follow: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437 Follow for More Insights: 🔹 Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ 🔹 Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ 🔹 Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang 🔹 TikTok: @sigliofficial & @innovantage   #AI #SalesAutomation #ArtificialIntelligence #BusinessStrategy #InnovantagePodcast #Sigli #Salesforge

In this episode of The Innovantage Podcast, host Max dives into the future of digital customer experience with a special guest — Tomer Azenkot, CEO of Vee24. Drawing from his deep expertise in blending AI-driven automation with human-led interactions, Tomer explains why a balanced approach is key to truly delighting customers and forging lasting relationships online.   Why Listen? Tomer reveals real-world success stories, common mistakes companies make, and why “customer-first” often fails in practice without the right execution strategy.   Key Insights? ➡️ Transform your digital customer journey with the right mix of AI and human engagement. ➡️ Avoid the biggest pitfalls in chatbot implementation and automation overload. ➡️ Drive real connections that boost brand loyalty, even in a world of increasing automation. ➡️ Identify the emerging trends in customer experience that businesses can’t afford to ignore. ➡️ Future-proof your strategy to stay competitive in an AI-driven marketplace.   Connect with Our Guest LinkedIn: 🔗 Tomer Azenkot: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomerazenkot/   Connect with Max (Host) LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/   Listen Now & Stay Ahead of AI Investment Trends Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0?si=aab60a9ec2864ba2   Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437   Follow for More Insights Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang  Sigli TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sigliofficial Innovantage TikTok: @innovantage   

On this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, we dive into the real-world impact of AI in business with Maxime Vermeir, Senior Director of AI Strategy at ABBYY. Maxime has been in the AI space long before it became a buzzword.   Why Listen? In this conversation, we cut through the noise to discuss what’s actually working in AI adoption, where companies are wasting time and money, and how businesses can navigate the next evolution of AI.   Key Insights from the Episode: 🔹 The truth about AI in business — when it adds real value vs. when it’s just for show 🔹 How companies get AI adoption wrong — common pitfalls and misconceptions 🔹 The AI hype cycle — spotting real innovation vs. marketing fluff 🔹 Hidden costs of AI — what business leaders underestimate 🔹 AI ethics and risks — the challenges companies don’t talk about 🔹 The future of AI — emerging trends and what’s coming next    Connect with Maxime Vermeir: 🔹 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maximevermeir/ 🔹The AI Pulse Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcawcg-HXtXeE7L_eP5yIE8vg64jhaUXj   Listen & Stay Ahead of AI Trends: 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437   Follow for More Insights: 🔹 Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ 🔹 Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ 🔹 Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang 🔹 Sigli TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sigliofficial 🔹 Innovantage TikTok: @innovantage   #AI #ArtificialIntelligence #BusinessStrategy #MachineLearning #InnovantagePodcast #Sigli

In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, host Max dives deep into the evolving landscape of data, analytics, and AI with a special guest — Dr. Carsten Bange, Founder & CEO of BARC and host of The Data Culture Podcast. Why Listen? With over 25 years of experience in data strategy, governance, and AI, Carsten shares his expert insights on how businesses can truly embrace a data-driven culture and navigate the AI revolution in analytics. Introduction  Key Insights? Build a strong data-driven culture in your organization. Overcome cultural and organizational blockers to data adoption. Differentiate between AI-driven innovation and AI hype. Find the right balance between centralized and decentralized data governance. Prepare for the future of AI and data in enterprise strategy.   Carsten also discusses real-world success stories, the impact of regulatory shifts like the EU AI Act, and the biggest blind spots companies have when preparing for an AI-driven future. Whether you're a data leader, AI enthusiast, or decision-maker, this episode is packed with practical insights you don’t want to miss! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!   Connect with Our Guest: 🔗 Carsten Bange: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carsten-bange/ 🎙️ The Data Culture Podcast: https://barc.com/data-culture-podcast/ Connect with Max (Host): 🔗 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxim-golikov/ Listen Now & Stay Ahead of AI Investment Trends 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19M3HKc1pbeTkYcOeOkJc0?si=aab60a9ec2864ba2 🎧 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/pl/podcast/innovantage-podcast/id1749330437 Follow for More Insights: 🔹 Innovantage Podcast: https://www.linkedin.com/company/innovantage-podcast/ 🔹 Sigli: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sigli/ 🔹 Instagram: https://instagram.com/sigli.gang 🔹 Sigli TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sigliofficial 🔹 Innovantage TikTok: @innovantage

What does it take to separate AI hype from real innovation? How do investors assess risk when betting on AI startups? And why are cybersecurity and scalability the hidden deal-breakers in tech M&A? In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, we sit down with Agu Aarna, Co-Founder & Partner at Intium Tech. With deep expertise in M&A, AI strategy, and investment due diligence, Agu has helped investors navigate high-stakes acquisitions and uncover the real risks and opportunities in tech-driven businesses. Agu shares how tech due diligence has evolved, the biggest blind spots investors often miss, and what it really means to evaluate an AI company—beyond just plugging into OpenAI APIs. He also unpacks critical factors like cybersecurity, scalability, and IP risks that can make or break a deal, plus the investment trends that will shape AI in 2025 and beyond. If you're in venture capital, private equity, or simply want to understand what separates a solid AI company from one built on smoke and mirrors, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Why Listen? With years of experience at Intium Tech, Agu has seen firsthand how investors fall into common pitfalls when assessing AI startups. His insights into risk assessment, due diligence, and AI-driven decision-making make this a must-listen for anyone looking to make smarter investment decisions in tech. Connect with Agu Aarna [LinkedIn] Connect with Max (Host) [LinkedIn] Follow Sigli & Innovantage [Sigli LinkedIn][Innovantage Podcast LinkedIn] #AI #VentureCapital #TechDueDiligence #AIInvesting #InnovantagePodcast #Sigli

What separates a good founder from a unicorn founder? How do venture capitalists identify the next billion-dollar company before the world catches on? And what does it take to build a genuinely resilient startup in today’s rapidly changing fintech landscape? In this episode of the Innovantage Podcast, we sit down with Mike Sigal, a Venture Partner at GPO Fund and MiddleGame Ventures. He has spent over two decades on both sides of the startup ecosystem—as a founder and an investor. He’s seen it all: the ambitious pitches, the near-misses, and the rare game-changing companies that redefine industries. Mike shares what he looks for when betting on a founder, why resilience is often more important than vision, and how fintech is evolving with trends like Web3, embedded finance, and alternative funding models. He also unpacks the shifts in venture capital—how crowdfunding and tokenization are challenging traditional VC and what this means for investors and entrepreneurs. If you want to understand what it takes to thrive in fintech, build a high-growth company, or get inside the mind of a seasoned investor, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss. Why Listen? Mike’s journey from startup founder to venture capitalist gives him a rare dual perspective on what makes businesses succeed or fail. As a mentor to startups worldwide, he offers hard-earned insights on navigating market downturns, securing funding, and building lasting companies. Connect with Mike Sigal LinkedIn Connect with Max (Host) LinkedIn Follow Sigli & Innovantage Sigli LinkedInInnovantage Podcast LinkedIn   #Fintech #StartupSuccess #VentureCapital #UnicornFounders #InnovantagePodcast #Sigli

In this episode of The Innovantage Podcast, host Maxim Golikov speaks with Laimonas Sutkus, a Fractional CTO and Tech Advisor with over a decade of experience in AI startups, fintech, and health tech. Laimonas brings a unique perspective on the role of fractional CTOs and their game-changing impact on early-stage startups. Key Topics Covered:➡️ Laimonas’ Journey: From launching AI and SaaS startups to becoming a fractional CTO.➡️ AI Startups: Are we in another bubble, or is AI here to stay?➡️ The Fractional CTO Advantage: How startups can benefit from flexible, cost-effective leadership.➡️ Startup Strategy: Practical advice on MVP development, securing funding, and scaling effectively.➡️ AI and Data Quality: Why proper data management is critical for AI success.➡️ Emerging Technologies: Beyond AI – what other innovations are shaping the startup ecosystem?➡️ Mentorship and Validation: The importance of mentorship and validating product-market fit.➡️ Advice for Non-Technical Founders: How to effectively lead and scale a tech-driven startup without a technical background. Laimonas also shares practical tips on navigating product development uncertainties, building high-performing tech teams, and creating strategies for sustainable startup growth. If you’re a startup founder, entrepreneur, or aspiring leader in the tech space, this episode is full of actionable insights to help you thrive in today’s fast-paced tech landscape. 🎙 Connect with Our Guest:🔗 Laimonas Sutkus: LinkedIn 🎙 Connect with Max (Host):🔗 Max Golikov: LinkedIn 📢 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode for more expert insights on AI, fractional leadership, and startup growth! #AI #Startups #TechLeadership #Entrepreneurship #DataQuality #InnovantagePodcast #AIStartups