The Big REthink: Recent Episodes
Panasonic
ForCaptain Matt Bolger, adopting technology is all about working smarter, not harder. In his role in IT with the Michigan State Police Department, he’s helped lead an overhaul of how officers do their work, including which technology solutions to use. In-car modems, real-time video uploads to a cloud, and body cameras all help law enforcement spend more time policing, and less time finding a good Wifi connection. On this episode of The Big REthink, Capt. Bolger joins host Susan Campbell to share how that shift has helped officers and citizens alike.
The night before John Verdi’s first day at the police academy, his dad—a former officer himself—had some advice: say hi to everyone. That counsel proved to be pivotal to Verdi’s career, including a profound experience on 9/11 and a split-second decision that spared a life. Verdi’s since retired from the NYPD, but his learnings inspired him to create an app that helps communities and police connect on a human level and, just maybe, save future lives. On this episode of The Big REthink, he joins host Susan Campbell to discuss how his app is bringing people closer together.
When Captain Don Redmond retired from the Chula Vista Police Department in 2022, he had nearly 26 years of experience in everything from SWAT responses to jail command, and was ready to bid law enforcement goodbye. But after joining BRINC, a drone company that specializes in public safety, he became vice president of special projects there, and has been a promoter of using drones as first responders (DFRs) ever since. In this episode of The Big REthink, Redmond joins host Susan Campbell to share some of the ways in which drones are improving safety outcomes and supporting police departments, including de-escalation, accelerated response times, and reducing officers’ workload at a time when staffing is a challenge. Finally, he describes the tech-enabled future he envisions (drones are key, and so is a real-time response system) for safer communities.
Scott Harkless, the Chief Innovation Officer for Alcorn McBride, never intended to go into the theme park business. A tinkerer with a degree in electronic engineering, he originally sought out work in museum-related technology. But now, years later, he’s an expert in his field. On this episode of The Big REthink, he joins host Susan Campbell to share some of what he loves about his work, the types of technologies that go into making fan-favorite rides, and why relationship-building is essential for innovation. Harkless also explains why show control systems are essential to every ride—and how they’re akin to conducting an orchestra.
In Charlotte, NC, law enforcement has been adopting new technologies to help officers boost their productivity, streamline workflows, and keep their community safer. On this episode of The Big REthink, Charlotte’s Public Safety Technology Director, Crystal Combs, joins host Susan Campbell to discuss how tools like AI and ML are reshaping how officers do their work now, and what it might look like down the line. From using predictive analytics to deploy officers more efficiently to computer-aided dispatch, she shares how technology is impacting the work of law enforcement and how it might evolve in the future.
On this episode of The Big REthink, host Susan Campbell speaks with Peter Weisher, the Director of Themed Entertainment at the University of Central Florida. Weishar has created first-of-their-kind academic programs on themed experiences, including a major and a Master of Fine Arts degree at UCF. During the conversation, he shares what drew him to the field, the technology that students use to design those experiences, and what they might be using in the future. Plus, he explains what, exactly, the difference is between a theme park and an amusement park. (Hint: storytelling and narratives are key.)
From amusement park rides to arena concerts and high school theaters to TV studios, there are countless ways that people, technology, and innovation come together to bring storytelling to life.As president of InterAmerica Stage, a Florida-based entertainment production company and manufacturer, Mark Black leverages all three. On this episode of The Big REthink, Black joins host Susan Campbell to pull the curtain back on some of the training that goes into entertainment production (physics, fine arts, and rope-climbing are all in the mix) and how pioneering pieces of equipment and capabilities (3D modeling, for example) have changed the game. Plus, he shares where he thinks entertainment is going—and why in-person experiences still matter.
In an already evolving workplace, change has accelerated even more over the past few years. That’s thanks to everything from the increasing popularity of the hybrid work model to an influx of Gen Z employees. With so many variables at play, how can employees and leaders alike succeed in this rapidly changing workforce? On this episode of The Big REthink, Barry Ross revisits conversations that he and fellow hosts Susan Campbell and Brian Rowley have had with experts—including author Dr. Ruth Gotian, body language expert Dr. Carol Kinsey Goman and DEI advocate Cheryl Harris—who share their insights.
What if, during their concerts, rock bands could scrap pre-planned set lists and let real-time data about fans’ energy determine a show’s direction? What if sensors could detect event attendees’ emotions and deliver a highly personalized experience in response? These are just a couple of concepts that could be inching closer to reality. On this episode of The Big REthink, host Susan Campbell welcomes Geoffrey Platt, of 7thSense Design, for a conversation about how technology is transforming the live-experience industry.
Digital license plates. Dynamic window tints. Car interiors that change in appearance to suit a passenger’s preference. These are a few technologies and features that could soon transform the driving experience. At the forefront of their development: E Ink, a company known for creating a sustainable, electronic alternative to paper. On this episode of The Big REthink, E Ink’s associate vice president of operations, Tim O’Malley, joins host Barry Ross to explain how the company’s smart-surface technology has reshaped reading and public communication, and how it stands to change the automotive industry next.
If anyone knows what it takes to create dazzling, immersive in-person experiences on a larger-than-life scale, it’s Winston Fisher. Fisher is CEO of AREA15, a Las Vegas hub for interactive art and entertainment. AREA15 features a fully sensorial virtual reality free-roam space and an immersive, psychedelic grocery store-inspired exhibit with doorways to secret worlds—to name just a few of its head-spinning attractions. On this episode of The Big REthink, Fisher joins host Brian Rowley to discuss how technology brings such experiences to life, and how, with in-person events making a long-awaited comeback, it can help organizers take immersion and engagement to all-new levels for their attendees.
For older generations of professionals, pivoting to a new hybrid work model has required shifts in the way they think, work, and communicate. But for many Gen Z’ers—who will make up 30 percent of the workforce by 2030 and who have navigated school, socializing, and beginning their careers amid the Covid-19 pandemic—hybrid has been the norm. As more of Gen Z enters the workforce, what expectations are they bringing with them, and how can their leaders adapt? On this episode of The Big REthink, Liz Eskenazi, a certified professional coach and founder of The Mind Core, joins host Susan Campbell to answer these questions and more.
More and more, customers and employees care not just about the products, services, and benefits that corporate organizations can offer them—they care about how those same organizations give back to the communities and world around them, too. On this episode of The Big REthink, Panasonic’s own Alejandra Ceja, Vice President of Social Impact and Inclusion and Executive Director of the Panasonic Foundation, and Eleazar Gutierrez, the company’s Senior Communities Affairs Specialist, join host Brian Rowley to explain why social responsibility matters so much, and to discuss in depth Panasonic’s own Month of Service, now in its fourth year.
As students go back to school, we’re looking forward to what’s in store for education in the years to come. On this episode of The Big REthink, host Barry Ross revisits conversations with three education experts. Dr. Michael John McDonough, president of Raritan Valley Community College in New Jersey, explains how technology is helping to improve education accessibility. Georgetown University scholar Bryan Alexander shares how technology can serve as a both a bridge and a divider, top considerations for the upcoming school year and the need for teaching transformation. Then Dr. Sonny Magana, CEO of Magana Education, outlines why we need to update the current academic model as technology’s role continues to grow.
In the worlds of music, dance, urban planning and beyond, art and technology are working together to revitalize creativity and inspire connection. On this episode of The Big REthink, host Susan Campbell revisits conversations with three guests who live and work at the intersection of art and tech. Quantum physicist and professional ballet dancer Dr. Merritt Moore describes the mutual benefits of fusing art and analytics. Ryan Haskins, music director and conductor of the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra, explains how technology is expanding the reach of the 200-year-old art form. And Carmen Zella, creative director and principal at Now Art in Los Angeles, talks about the importance of art in creating healthy and liveable public spaces amid the Smart City revolution.
Everywhere we go, from classrooms to churches to concerts, audio visual technology brings immersive experiences and powerful stories to life. On today’s episode of The Big REthink, content creator, multimedia journalist, and AV professional Alesia Hendley joins host Brian Rowley to discuss her passion for creating such experiences through AV technology, and her efforts to “tell a story of what our industry does as opposed to selling the tech specs of what our technology actually does.”
Can a cake decorator find success in an e-commerce role? Is there a place in cybersecurity for a forensics technician? According to Jessica Mitsch Homes, co-founder and CEO of the Raleigh-based training company Momentum, the answer is a resounding yes. On this episode of The Big REthink, Homes joins host Susan Campbell to explain how companies like hers are helping individuals train for new careers in tech—often to the tune of jaw-dropping, double-digit salary increases.
For a long time, corporate workers were expected to bring little more than professional skills to their jobs. But these days, says Cheryl Harris, corporate organizations are recognizing the value of employees and executives on a more holistic level, from their passions and emotions to their intellect and sensitivity. What led to this shift, and what difference is this increasing openness and awareness bringing to the workplace? On this episode of The Big REthink, Harris, an author, leadership coach and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion advocate, joins host Brian Rowley to discuss.
In the 1980s, rising awareness of energy efficiency in the building industry led to an ironic—and perhaps surprising—side effect in indoor spaces: poorer air quality. On today’s episode of The Big REthink, Kevin Smith, general manager of the Life & Device Solutions Division and Visual Systems Department at Panasonic Canada, joins host Susan Campbell for a conversation about why most people assume the air inside their homes is healthy, and what they can do to ensure that it actually is.
For utility companies, keeping power lines clear of fallen trees and overgrown vegetation is a complex task. On this episode of The Big REthink, Anne Beard, director of vegetation management solutions for Geospatial Innovations, Inc., explains to host Susan Campbell how the company’s software simplifies the process, and increases efficiency, for workers in the field and the office. Beard also shares the positive ripple effect that technology and vegetation management have on wildlife and the environment when they’re used together.
Agriculture is an age-old industry. New technologies, such as self-driving tractors, stand to increase efficiency and profitability and to fill gaps in lacking labor, but some farmers still hesitate to embrace it. Today, Jon Ebert, manager of public and industry relations in North America for John Deere, explains to host Brian Rowley how he’s using creative storytelling to illustrate the value advanced technologies bring to the trade.
To educate customers about how they can be more sustainable at home, the Orlando Utilities Commission set up a tiny green home outfitted with engaging, interactive displays centered around water usage, energy consumption, composting, and other areas of focus. On this episode of The Big REthink, Bernadette Boesch, the commission’s creative director, joins host Susan Campbell to explain the tiny home’s impact, and to share tips for consumers who want to go green at home.
Former NASA astronaut Charlie Camarda formed the EPIC Education Foundation in response to the drastically dwindling number of students who pursue STEM-related education and careers. On this episode of The Big REthink, Camarda joins host Barry Ross to discuss the foundation’s innovative educational model, which promotes collaborative problem-solving and mentorship across age groups and education levels.
In honor of Earth Day, host Barry Ross revisits conversations with innovative executives and individuals who are using technology as a tool to better our planet. Guests include Topher White, founder of Rainforest Connection, an organization dedicated to combating illegal logging and deforestation; Atmosic Technologies founder and CEO David Su, who explains how energy harvesting could reduce electronic waste; and Alaka’i Technologies co-founder Brian Morrison and BMW Group Designworks’ Peter Falt, who are pioneering electronic vertical takeoff and landing (EVTOL) aircraft that could reduce carbon emissions and transform the way we travel.
For people who are hard of hearing, a routine visit to the post office, bank or pharmacy can be complicated. On today’s episode of The Big REthink, Janice Lintz, founder and CEO of Hearing Access Innovations, joins host Barry Ross to explain how face masks, plexiglass barriers and background noise can pose challenges for people who are hard of hearing, and how she’s working to make a particular, problem-solving technology more widely available.
It’s Women’s History Month! To celebrate, on this episode of The Big REthink, host Susan Campbell shares snippets from conversations with a few of her favorite, forward-thinking female guests of the show. Topics of conversation range from the power of public, outdoor art exhibits to technology’s role in making the world more accessible for people with disabilities—and much more.
Body language isn’t just a reflection of what we might be thinking or feeling on the inside. It can influence how we’re viewed as leaders, too. On this episode of The Big REthink, host Susan Campbell welcomes international keynote speaker and body language expert Dr. Carol Kinsey Goman for a conversation about the link between our body language and our perceived credibility. They also discuss ways to effectively adapt body language for a digital workplace, and how executives can use body language to their advantage.
In modern-day baseball, far more goes into preparing players for competition than just batting practice and outfield drills. On this episode of The Big REthink, Katie Krall—the biomechanist and former Google strategist who recently joined the Boston Red Sox as development coach for its Minor League team, the Portland Sea Dogs—joins host Brian Rowley to discuss how coaches in the sport are using technology, data and analytics to increase players’ efficiency, devise on-field strategy and even prevent injury.
Self-doubt, gender bias and physical strain were a few of the obstacles mountaineer Tonya Clement had to overcome when, in 2006, she became the ninth American woman to summit Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. On this episode of The Big REthink, Clement, now the president of Cardinal Peak Technologies, joins host Brian Rowley to discuss the mindset, training regimen and technology that helped her make it to the top.
What do Nobel Prize-winning scientists, Olympic figure skaters and astronauts have in common? They’re all extreme high achievers at the top of their respective fields. On this episode of The Big REthink, Dr. Ruth Gotian—The Success Factor author, chief learning officer and assistant professor of education in anesthesiology at Weill Cornell Medicine, and 2021 recipient of Thinkers50’s prestigious Radar Award—joins host Brian Rowley to explain what factors set these high achievers apart, and how individuals can learn skills and traits to boost their own success.
For industries that embrace it, cryptocurrency can create efficiencies—both economic and operational. Why do some still resist it, and are they wise to stay away? Ron Shevlin—author, Forbes contributor, and director of research for Cornerstone Advisors—breaks it all down for host Barry Ross on today’s episode.
The rapidly changing workplace. Constantly evolving industries. Technology’s impact on the arts. We covered a lot of exciting topics on The Big REthink in 2021, and on this final show of the year, host Barry Ross revisits a few of our favorite episodes and guests. As always, thanks for listening. We’ll be back with exciting new episodes in 2022!
Despite existing in an increasingly digital world, many brick-and-mortar retailers are significantly more profitable than their e-commerce counterparts. On this episode of The Big REthink, Chris Ressa—host of the Retail Retold podcast and COO of DLC Management Corp.—joins host Brian Rowley to explain why. Ressa also explains how changing work models, such as hybrid and work-from-home, are impacting retailers, why a growing number of digitally native brands are going the brick-and-mortar route, and what 2022 holds for the retail and commercial real estate industries.
Electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft have the potential to alleviate traffic congestion, facilitate disaster-relief efforts and improve the cargo delivery process—all while leaving an exponentially smaller environmental footprint than traditional fixed-wing planes and helicopters. So, how soon might we see them in the skies? On this episode of The Big REthink, host Brian Rowley welcomes Alaka’i Technologies co-founder Brian Morrison and BMW Group Designworks’ Peter Falt, two of the minds behind the pioneering eVTOL aircraft Skai, to discuss this and more.
In the military and civilian worlds, how much is too much when it comes to artificial intelligence and autonomy? On this episode of The Big REthink, Oliver Hedgepeth—a professor of logistics at the American Military University online and the founding director of the United States Army's AI Center for Logistics—joins host Barry Ross to discuss the benefits and drawbacks of autonomous A.I. systems. They also discuss how the U.S. Armed Forces are incorporating A.I. into their supply chain processes, and the takeaways that could help to assist supply chain woes in a civilian world.
To some, the arts and sciences seem an unlikely pairing. On this episode of The Big REthink, Dr. Merritt Moore—the quantum physicist and professional ballet dancer who has gained recognition for dancing alongside a robot partner she designed—joins host Barry Ross to dispel the notion that the two should be mutually exclusive, and to explain how marrying the two worlds can lead to exciting advancements in both.
Accounting for roughly one-fifth of carbon emissions produced each year, deforestation in places like Africa, Asia and South America is one of the main contributors to climate change. On this episode of The Big REthink, Topher White, conservation technologist and founder of Rainforest Connection, joins host Brian Rowley to explain how his organization is using technology to stop illegal logging and poaching right at the site. He also details the challenges of designing devices that can withstand rainforest conditions, and the expanding role AI will play in future conservation efforts.
In higher ed, traditional classroom study alone does little to prepare many students for real-world work scenarios. On today’s episode of The Big REthink, Jacob Kinsey, senior associate director of Illinois Business Consulting at the University of Illinois’s Gies College of Business, joins host Susan Campbell to explain how programs like his are better preparing students—and fast-tracking their success in the workforce— by offering experiential, consultative-style curricula.
The education landscape is ever-changing, with factors such as public health concerns, socioeconomics and accessibility influencing how instructors connect with students. On this episode of The Big REthink, speaker, author, futurist and Georgetown University scholar Bryan Alexander joins host Brian Rowley to explain how technology can serve as a bridge—and a divider—during tumultuous times, and why some students and educators are more eager to embrace it than others.
As the CEO of Ruh Global Impact, the founder of Billion Strong and the mother of a daughter with Down Syndrome, Debra Ruh is on a mission to help businesses and multinational corporations assure access for persons with disabilities worldwide. On this episode of The Big REthink, Ruh joins host Barry Ross to explain how companies can be more inclusive, and how technology can help their efforts.
As conductor and director of the Sioux City Symphony Orchestra, Ryan Haskins is tasked with bringing classical music to members of his community—and finding ways to adapt the 200-year-old genre for modern times. On this episode of The Big REthink, he joins host Susan Campbell to explain how he uses technology to make classical music accessible to new audiences, and to change the live listening experience in thrilling ways for even the most seasoned connoisseurs.
Studies show that, no matter how sophisticated technology gets, its efficacy as a learning tool remains low. On this episode of The Big REthink, Dr. Sonny Magana, CEO of Magana Education, joins host Susan Campbell to explain why. He also shares how changing today’s dominant pedagogical model could mean more success for students.
Digital art emerged as early as the 1960s, but only in recent years have advances in technology propelled the medium to the forefront of public awareness. On today’s episode of The Big REthink, Carmen Zella, founder of NOW Art, joins host Susan Campbell to discuss how technology is making digital art more accessible, and the medium’s powerful ability to not only bridge the physical and emotional worlds, but to bring people together.
Batteries are useful and ubiquitous. Though, they pose a significant burden on the environment. On this episode of The Big REthink, David Su, CEO of Atmosic Technologies, joins host Barry Ross to share his vision for a battery-free future. They also discuss sustainable measures that might help reduce our reliance on batteries in the meantime.
From entertainment to agriculture, artificial intelligence, or AI, is all around us. But is it safe? And what does it mean for the future of humans’ jobs? On today’s episode of The Big REthink, host Brian Rowley and his guest, PJC’s Rob May, discuss this hot-button topic—and debunk a common myth or two.
Welcome to the 50th episode of The Big REthink! On this special—and extra-fun—episode, theme park historian Jim Hill joins host Barry Ross to discuss how technology has changed the theme park experiences. They also look back at some of the hiccups parks have faced along the way and consider how modern devices, such as smartphones, are asking parks to create new revenue streams.
By 2025, the U.S. manufacturing industry could be down 2 million workers, with older employees leaving the industry and younger generations looking to step in, though often without sufficient training. On this episode of The Big REthink, Conrad Mercurius, coordinator of Raritan Valley Community College’s Advanced Manufacturing program, joins host Susan Campbell to explain how institutions like his are tailoring their skills-training curricula to meet manufacturers’ needs and why new technology training isn’t always needed.
Contrary to their stereotype, Millennials are savvy, especially when it comes to the ways they use technology and consume media. Companies are catching on, and developing new strategies to capture this crucial market’s attention. On this episode of The Big REthink, Kate Ward, co-founder of Bustle and founder and CEO of The Dipp, joins host Brian Rowley to explain how. They also discuss niche fandom and the value of authenticity.
Around the world and across sectors, a rapidly growing number of workers are dependent on mobile devices to do their jobs. Yet research shows that, on a weekly basis, 50 percent of workers experience technological issues that get in the way of their work. Why is that number so high, and what challenges do IT professionals face when it comes to troubleshooting and preventing problems? On this episode of The Big REthink, Gary Lee, chief revenue officer for B2M Solutions, joins host Barry Ross to discuss. Plus, they consider the impact of technological issues on businesses’ bottom line and the consumer experience.
For civilians and outsiders, it might be easy to assume that, when it comes to national security, the U.S. government has an endless array of cutting-edge technologies to choose from. But a set of unique challenges, from logistical limitations to fiscal responsibility, make technological innovation more difficult than some might imagine. On this episode of The Big REthink, Schuyler Moore, senior defense advisor to the House of Representatives, joins host Barry Ross to discuss those obstacles, and some of the solutions already in place.
At work, we’re often expected to present our best selves, checking our emotional needs and insecurities at the door. Where did that expectation originate, and what benefits might there be in creating a workplace that embraces authenticity? On this episode of The Big REthink, researcher, author and speaker Jez Rose joins host Brian Rowley to answer these questions and more.
For many churchgoers, personal connection is a key component of the live worship experience. As congregations grow and demand for remote streaming increases, how can technology help foster human bonds? On this episode of The Big REthink, Donnie Haulk, CEO of AE Global Media, Inc., joins host Barry Ross to answer this question and more.
Faster data transmission, lower latency, higher resolution and increased usage capacity are a few features of 5G wireless technology. How will it impact businesses, and what differences can consumers expect in their everyday lives? On this episode of The Big REthink, Vijay Paulrajan, Executive Director - Devices, Verizon Business Group, having responsibility for business products and marketing, joins host Barry Ross to discuss. They also consider how 5G is promoting the growth of technology on a larger scale.
Now more than ever, grocery store customers want – and need – safe, quick and convenient ways to shop for food. On this episode of The Big REthink, Matt Judkins, director of corporate marketing communication for Hussmann Corporation, joins host Susan Campbell to share his take on the technologies that are helping grocers provide just such an experience, from online ordering to contactless pickup. Plus, they discuss sustainability initiatives in grocery stores and supply chains, and what the future of food retail might look like.
Digital transformation. Industry 4.0. Internet of Things. A wave of digital technologies has benefitted the manufacturing industry in recent years, increasing efficiency, streamlining operations and cutting costs. While some in the industry have embraced this change faster than others, more manufacturers are getting on board before they’re left behind. On this episode of The Big REthink, Shawn Robinson, senior product manager for process automation at Panasonic, joins host Barry Ross to discuss this digital shift for manufacturers, and how these technologies are impacting factories around the world. They also discuss ways in which factory workers can not only adapt, but thrive, in this changing landscape.
In recent years, online ordering, mobile apps and other technologies have made dining faster and more convenient than ever for restaurant customers. And with that convenience comes increased demand – especially amid ongoing safety protocols and social-distancing guidelines. On this episode of The Big REthink, Michael Lavigne, president and CEO of CLEARVIEW - A Panasonic Company, and Che Baird, customer relationship manager at Panasonic Canada, join host Susan Campbell to discuss how technology is helping restaurants keep up, how it’s creating a more personalized experience for customers and what its role is in predicting demand.
For businesses, data regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion is integral to understanding everything from the way we learn in the workplace to the development of new products. On this episode of The Big REthink, Kurt Merriweather, Vice President of Products and Innovation at The Diversity Movement, joins host Susan Campbell to discuss how companies can use this critical information to create value for their employees and consumers alike. Furthermore, they consider the role that bias plays in our decision-making, and the benefits of embracing a multicultural point of view.
Once a relatively rare form of technology, sensors are poised to become a $240 billion global market by 2022, thanks to falling costs and their increasingly sophisticated capabilities. On this episode of The Big REthink, Eric Johnsrud, a product engineer at Panasonic Industrial Devices Sales Company of America, joins host Barry Ross to discuss the evolution of sensors, how they’re changing industries from automobiles to mobile communications, and their impact on efficiency in both our professional and personal lives.
For too many residents of senior living communities, whether they're just moving in and getting adjusted or have been there for years, social isolation is the norm. Prolonged loneliness has a severe impact, not only on emotional wellness, but physical health, too. On the latest episode of The Big REthink, Rendever Cofounder and CEO Kyle Rand joins host Barry Ross to discuss the data on loneliness and health, his personal connection to it, and why he built a virtual reality (VR) company to help. He explains how shared VR experiences – from a trip to Barcelona to visiting a childhood home – not only let seniors explore the world with ease, but also pave the way for closer social bonds and, ultimately, better health for the long term.
Thanks to the constant evolution of technology, the way we experience everything from trade shows to museums to shopping has become increasingly immersive. On this episode of The Big REthink, Cameron Uhlig, owner of Camagine Design, joins host Susan Campbell to discuss technology’s role in engaging customers and telling brands’ stories. They also consider the topic of troubleshooting and the challenges of forging human connections in an increasingly virtual world.
Automation technology and U.S. trade policies have long been blamed for the loss of manufacturing jobs in America. But is that enduring narrative based in fact? On this episode of The Big REthink, Panasonic Process Automation Business Head Gustavo Sepulveda shares his take on what actually leads to job cuts - and creation - within America’s manufacturing businesses. Plus, he and host Barry Ross consider the role of supply chains and what manufacturing might look like as some companies with operations abroad move closer to home.
With much of the workforce continuing to work from home, every facet of office life has been transformed. From daily routines to the tools that teams use to communicate, companies and employees have been adapting en masse to new ways of working. On the latest episode of The Big REthink, Gina Tokar, Vice President of Operations at Panasonic Systems Solutions Company of North America (PSSNA), joins us to share some of the solutions that she has developed to achieve balance while working from home, some tips on how leaders can support their employees through this process, and the potential lasting impact of our pandemic-era approach to work.
The Android operating system (OS) has long been synonymous with consumer-facing smartphones. But behind the scenes, developers have been using it to support enterprise businesses in transformative ways. On this episode of The Big REthink, Jim Ward, president and founder of software consulting firm Elite EXTRA, joins host Barry Ross to discuss how Android has become instrumental for creating large-scale, customized solutions. From its hardware-agnostic flexibility to its fluid integration into existing, proprietary software, he shares how the OS is making inroads and supporting businesses in new ways.
As businesses across every sector continue to adopt new protocols and approaches to customer experience, the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry has been on the frontlines of change. In our latest episode of The Big REthink, Forbes and Restaurant Dive Contributor Alicia Kelso join to share some of the challenges restaurants are facing and the ways they’re using technology in the process. With safety, speed and accuracy among the top priorities for off-premise dining, she describes the tactics, like integrating third-party apps into point of sale systems, that are helping QSRs thrive now and remain nimble for the future.
Amid school closures and the widespread move to remote learning, colleges are racing to find new ways to connect with students. On Episode 31, Dr. Michael John McDonough, president of Raritan Valley Community College in New Jersey, shares some of the challenges that he and his faculty have faced and how they’re working to meet them. From hybrid modalities of online and in-person learning to finding new ways to assess students’ coursework mastery, he discusses the opportunity to upend how we think of higher education and how it can be more useful for students, industry and society at large.
Starting in 2016, approximately 25% of voters in the U.S. submitted their ballots by mail. This November, that number is expected to jump by 50%, posing major hurdles for counties that have traditionally counted ballots by hand. On this week’s episode, Fred Scherman, National Sales Manager - Scanners at Panasonic, joins host Barry Ross to discuss signature verification technology and how it can create significant efficiencies for election officials amid unprecedented numbers of mail-in ballots and pandemic-driven staffing restrictions. Through scanning both sides of ballots, batch-sorting and enhanced record keeping, Fred shares how the technology can help streamline ballot-counting and support elections in this new context.
The global pandemic has impacted every facet of daily life, but few sectors have been as affected as food service. On the latest episode of The Big REthink, Agnes Sowa, Senior Program Manager at Panasonic Digital Solutions Center, joins host Barry Ross to discuss how some restaurants have adapted despite massive changes to how they do business. She shares one approach that’s allowing kitchens to simultaneously meet the increased demand for takeout and remain attentive to customers who still pick up or dine in person – all while ensuring the maximum safety of guests, staff and delivery workers amid the next normal.
As the definition of a frontline worker has expanded practically overnight and an unprecedented number of people are working from home, companies’ approaches to mobile deployments have had to transform, too. Analysts, who once made predictions four to five years in the future, are now helping companies enable fluid workflows and prepare for what employees might need in monthly increments instead. In today’s episode, Bryan Bassett, Senior Research Analyst for Enterprise Mobility at IDC, joins host Barry Ross to discuss the balancing act between meeting today’s demand for mobility deployments and assessing what work will look like post-pandemic.
Starting in the 1960s as a slow-moving, manual technique for measuring faces against photographs, facial detection technology is now so sophisticated that it can collect thousands of data points in real-time, at scale. That evolution allows consumers to do everything from access devices more easily to breeze through lines at the DMV. But accessibility and scope have also brought new challenges for privacy. On today’s episode, Eric Symon, the director of the Enterprise Process Innovation Center (EPIC) at Panasonic, joins host Barry Ross to discuss the intricacies of facial detection technology and how AI can improve video analysis.
In today’s world, the work of healthcare professionals comes with unique challenges. To protect the health and safety of both patients and medical staff, patient care has been forced to evolve, coming to rely on technologies that facilitate telehealth and telemedicine. Doctors, physicians and hospital systems have had to adapt to altered workflows and redefined interactions, further ingrained these technologies into “the new normal” of medical care, integral to meeting patient needs. In the debut episode of The Big REthink, host Barry Ross welcomes Dr. Ania Garlitski, cardiac electrophysiologist and co-director of the New England Cardiac Arrhythmia Center at Tufts Medical Center, to discuss this new era of medicine and the critical, evolving role of technology in patient care.
Welcome to The Big REthink, a fresh take on how technology and creativity are changing the way work gets done.
Android™ is the open-source operating system that gives customers the flexibility and customizability they need to effectively conduct business. Despite the brand’s consumer success with its smartphone line, this multi-faceted B2B approach is equally strong, and is already the OS of choice for business leaders across a multitude of industries. But how can the Android OS benefit your business? Find out on this week’s episode of RUGGED RANTS, as host Barry Ross talks all things Android with guest Jack Weixel, head of global partnerships for Android dedicated devices at Google.
With over 88% market share according to Net Applications, Windows is the popular desktop operating system that consumers and businesses alike have been using for years. Microsoft’s Windows 10 has continued the legacy, with organizations across industries relying on the OS for its stability, security and ability to unify Windows platforms across devices with universal apps and compatibility. But how has Windows evolved to get to this point? And what has everyone so hooked on Windows 10? In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross and guest Craig Jackowski, group manager of Panasonic’s Product Management Group, discuss Windows 10 and how it continues to support a multitude of business applications.
Although the ocean covers 70% of the earth’s surface, more than 90% of it remains unexplored, lying more than 2.5 miles beneath sea level. Deep-sea exploration can change the way we see our world, taking us to the wreckage of the Titanic or facilitating the discovery of a new species. Yet these areas are only accessible with high-tech submarines equipped with rugged, handheld mobile technologies to control navigation, alarms and tracking systems. On this week’s episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross speaks with Patrick Lahey, president and co-founder of Triton Submarines to discuss the role of technology in deep-sea exploration and why pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery is so important.
As emergency personnel rushed to the scene on 9/11 in New York City, they found themselves unable to communicate as a result of cellular network congestion, preventing the interoperability and connectivity they needed. In the years following, first responders found themselves dealing with this same issue time and time again. The need was clear: first responders required a network for emergency communication, and FirstNet was born. On this week’s episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross discusses the nation’s public safety communications platform with guest Doug Clark, executive director, FirstNet Program at AT&T.
Pew Research Center cites that 77% of employees use their personal devices at work regardless of their employer’s policies. But this intersection of personal and work devices continues to pose cybersecurity risks in a world already plagued by malware attacks, which could cost an estimated $6 trillion annually by 2021. These attacks can come from anywhere and happen to anyone: civilians, large multinational enterprises, organized criminal networks, even governments. So what can we do to defend ourselves? On this week’s episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross discusses the importance of cybersecurity for enterprises large and small with Peter Waxman, principal group program manager of enterprise and security, core operating systems, and intelligence edge at Microsoft.
From Tom Brady’s athlete recovery sleepwear to Ralph Lauren’s self-heating jacket, flexible electronics are gaining traction in the retail market. However, this technology is not limited to apparel – foldable smartphones like Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip along with a host of other bendable, wearable and malleable tech are also part of this increasingly popular electronics category. With their low cost and smart sensing capabilities, flexible electronics have the potential to generate a host of data and analytics that can be applied to other industries. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross speaks with Nick DeGaetano, General Manager of Strategic Business Development at Panasonic Industrial Devices Sales Company of America, about the use cases for flexible electronics and how this technology helps create a promising future for the retail industry and beyond.
Often, the most challenging and expensive part of a product’s journey is in the last mile. As e-commerce retailers like Amazon continue to raise consumer expectations with faster deliveries and real-time visibility into order status, businesses across industries are turning to technology to keep up. However, technology is not a “one size fits all” solution – what works for some companies, may not work for others. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross speaks with Jim Ward, president and founder of Elite EXTRA, about last mile delivery challenges and how technologies like automation and data analytics can help to optimize supply chain operations while providing a premium customer experience.
Did you know electric vehicles have been around since the early 1900s? While EVs may not be new, the rising popularity of electric mobility, or e-mobility, transportation solutions is. Before Tesla, EVs were clunky vehicles that resembled golf carts in many cases. Today, EVs are increasingly popular with sleek new designs coming out from the likes of Tesla as well as traditional automotive manufacturers and newer startups. But e-mobility doesn’t stop with consumer vehicles – electric options are making headway in the marine and aviation industries too. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross speaks with Tavis Szeto, Director for Mobility & Technology at Panasonic Industrial Devices Sales Company of America, about the rising demand for e-mobility and how manufacturers are updating their processes and products to keep up.
Businesses today are so focused on integrating digital technologies to transform how they work and serve customers, that they are getting distracted by hype. Many companies are implementing new technologies and tools before they even understand if and how they will solve customers’ pain points. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, Susan Campbell is joined by Faisal Pandit, president of Panasonic Systems Solutions Company of North America, to discuss why digital transformation must be driven by customer experience to be successful and how companies like McDonald’s have seen success.
Canada’s technology market is similar to the U.S., but smaller and more nimble. As a result, businesses are taking advantage of shorter tech adoption and deployment cycles, and thinking of ways to utilize new technologies to solve customers’ problems. However, adopting new technology isn’t always smooth sailing: Budget, skillsets and manpower can sometimes slow down its deployment, just like in the U.S. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Susan Campbell speaks with Susan Black, general manager of Panasonic Canada, about how businesses deploy technology to solve problems and what tech trends will shape the future.
Have you ever wondered how your Apple Watch connects to its data plan even though there’s no SIM card? That’s right: it uses eSIM! While one might think eSIM is mostly used in consumer electronics, devices and wearables, employees and enterprises also benefit from the technology. For example, eSIM enhances bring-your-own-device (BYOD) programs within businesses by untethering the workforce, allowing employees to work from their own devices and offering them the flexibility to toggle between a business line and a personal one. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Craig Jackowski speaks with Heidi Wilson, sales director of Mobile Operators at IDEMIA, about eSIM use cases and the future of wireless tech.
Remember analog TVs? It took years to transition from analog to digital cable, but today, new technology is changing the way we live and work at a faster pace than we’ve ever seen – and this is especially true for the cable and telecom industry. Now, with emerging technologies such as drones, artificial intelligence and augmented and virtual reality entering the workplace, installers and field technicians in the cable industry are challenged to keep up with the pace of these advancements. Fortunately, training and career courses allow workers to update their skills, and at the same time, help organizations fill vacancies from within. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Susan Campbell speaks with Zenita Henderson, vice president of marketing and business development at SCTE•ISBE, about the importance of reskilling the workforce, benefits of micro-training sessions and how employees can best prepare themselves for future career opportunities.
Today, corporate social responsibility (CSR) is increasingly part of companies’ DNA, but for Panasonic, CSR has been a focus since the company’s founding 100+ years ago. CSR programs serve the dual benefit of improving the communities they impact while simultaneously helping companies create brand identities that many consumers – especially millennials – find attractive. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Susan Campbell speaks with Faisal Pandit, president of Panasonic Systems Solutions Company of North America, about the importance of giving back through CSR initiatives as well as one initiative he’s particularly passionate about: working with rapper, actor and philanthropist, Common, through Art in Motion, a creative arts school based in Chicago. To learn more about Art in Motion and how you can help out, visit: https://www.aimchicago.org/.
What can a marketing team learn from a comic book writer? How can someone who studies ants help an airline with its boarding process? Cross-pollination, or the practice of introducing ideas from outside an organization or industry to spur innovation, will help your organization – and your employees – flourish. But how can executives implement cross-pollination in their own organizations? In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Susan Campbell speaks with Founder of the Big Heads Network, John Palumbo, about what cross-pollination is, how it works and what organizations can hope to achieve after implementing this cross-industry networking tactic.
As brands compete for market share, consumer interest and sales, each must find a way to differentiate itself. To do so, companies can take three critical steps: 1) Define their brand purpose, 2) Determine how technology can support it and 3) Communicate this strategy through creative storytelling. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, Susan Campbell is joined by Larry Weber; CEO of Racepoint Global, founder of the Weber Group and author of several books on marketing in the digital age; to discuss the power of purpose-driven marketing.
In its early days, financial technology – or fintech – focused on monetizing technologies and value-added services for the financial industry. But since its inception, fintech has ultimately reinvented the way we handle our money, our business operations and our daily routines. Now, we are able to make payments with a simple tap of our phone, trade bitcoin and cryptocurrency for real-world products and manage personal wealth with the click of a button. With all of these technologies, businesses have a lot to consider when evaluating their fintech strategy. In this episode of RUGGED RANTS, host Barry Ross speaks with Jennifer Byrne, co-founder and president of Quesnay Inc., about this topic and more.
As technological innovation continues to change the way we work, new devices and software are permeating organizational strategy and value-creation models. In turn, executives are adapting by forging strategic, effective partnerships to drive business growth and achieve their goals. But what partners does your business really need? Are you making the right connections in your professional network to help your business grow? In this episode, Host Barry Ross and Kim Murtagh, group manager of strategic alliances at Panasonic, discuss alliances, partnerships and what to look for in a successful relationship.
In any crisis – whether it’s a natural disaster, a terror attack or an industrial catastrophe – every second counts. This year, hundreds of first responders and industry partners will gather at the third annual Operation Convergent Response (OCR) event in Georgia where attendees can engage in interactive disaster scenarios and participate in immersive learning experiences, all with technology at the heart of operations. In this episode, Host Susan Campbell and Tammy McLean, Program Manager for Strategic Initiatives at Verizon, discuss how OCR originally came together and how cutting edge technologies can help first responders save more lives.
Millennials are now the largest generation in the workforce. As they increasingly enter decision making roles, businesses are figuring out new ways to adapt to the needs, wants and skillsets of this new generation, which expects constant connectivity and the latest technology at their fingertips. In this episode, Host Susan Campbell and Brian Rowley, VP of marketing at Panasonic Systems Solutions Company, discuss the impacts of technology on the workforce and how next gen workers will shape the way we work.
When laptops first came onto the market decades ago, they enabled workers to move freely amongst offices and buildings without leaving their work behind – something they hadn’t been able to do before. Fast forward twenty years, and mobility has advanced even further, with tablets, handhelds, cell phones and more designed to keep workers connected to the internet and to each other, no matter where their work may take them. In this episode, Host Susan Campbell, group manager of Panasonic System Solutions North America, invites Magnus McDermid, SVP of Mobility Solutions USA & VP of Enterprise Solutions Canada, to discuss the evolution of the mobile workforce and what it means for the future of work.
Since the release of the Fitbit activity tracker in 2009, wearable technology has taken the market by storm as top brands like Apple, Microsoft and even Nike consistently release more and more wearable products to a consumer base hungry for the latest lifestyle tech. But what potential do these devices hold for employers? Should businesses be deploying wearables to their employees, and for what purpose? In this episode, host Barry Ross, senior product and marketing manager at Panasonic, and guest John Harris, global research and development director at Panasonic, discuss the wearable technology market and how it may impact work across industries.
Rugged devices are reliable and sturdy, but what makes them even stronger is the product planning, deployment, security, repair and replacement services behind them. In this episode Host Barry Ross, senior product and marketing manager at Panasonic, and Walt Chantlos, national sales manager at Panasonic ProServices, discuss the importance of customer support and feedback, and how professional services (ProServices) play a crucial role in the success of any mobile deployment.
Getting wireless connectivity isn’t as easy as it should be for mobile workers – that is, until P.180 was born. In this episode, Host Barry Ross, senior product and marketing manager at Panasonic, speaks with Mary Beth Hall, Panasonic’s director of wireless strategy, about wireless connectivity pain points and the benefits Panasonic’s P.180 solution can bring to mobile workers across the globe.
Released in early September, the TOUGHBOOK 55 is the latest rugged laptop from Panasonic bringing unprecedented battery life, modularity and customizability to customers. In this episode, Host Craig Jackowski, group manager of product management at Panasonic, invites Anthony Mungiello, senior product manager at Panasonic, to discuss how the TOUGHBOOK 55 came to fruition. Spoiler alert: customer input played a crucial role.
Over the past year, 5G connectivity has taken center stage as leaders in the telecommunications space jockey for market share, fueling excitement around the idea of a faster, stronger, more powerful generation of wireless. But what does 5G really mean? In this episode, Host Craig Jackowski, Panasonic’s group manager of product management, speaks with Mary Beth Hall, Panasonic’s director of wireless strategy, about 5G and what this next generation of connectivity means for the industry.