Cisco Podcast Network

Cisco SE Talks: Conversation on AI, Cisco + CDW by Cisco

In this episode of Cisco SE Talks, we sit down with industry experts Joe Chenevey, AI Solutions Strategy Lead, and Cody Weaver, Cisco AI Team Lead from CDW to cut through the noise surrounding Artificial Intelligence. As AI moves from experimental "front-office" use cases to core IT infrastructure, organizations are facing a critical inflection point.

Our panel explores the shifting landscape of AI integration, focusing on how businesses can move beyond the "demo" phase to achieve tangible, scalable results. We discuss the transition of AI ownership from lines of business to IT, the vital importance of security and governance in an era of "shadow AI," and why understanding the specific business problem is the only way to build a successful AI strategy.

Whether you are looking to optimize your infrastructure or navigate the complexities of AI governance, this episode provides the practical context needed to stay ahead in an ever-changing technological landscape.

Join Kat and Ian as they stumble through the basics of DRIP (yes, we finally figured it out!), share some questionable life advice for surviving a seven-hour meeting marathon, and geek out over why Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) is the ultimate digital bodyguard. We’re breaking down the "something you know, have, and are" magic that blocks 99% of attacks, and why that extra verification step is actually your best friend, not a nuisance. Plus, Ian drops some secret lore about his past life building cybersecurity programs.

Get your MFA ready, and let’s get into it!

Check out Cisco's cybersecurity solutions (like MFA) for SMBs here: https://www.cisco.com/site/us/en/solutions/small-business/security/index.html

In this special edition Talking Shift episode, host Jeff Edwards sits down with executive coach and NewLeaf Partners International co-founder Sam Barcus — the trusted advisor behind many of Cisco’s most influential leaders.

But this conversation is bigger than leadership coaching. It’s about the invisible ceilings that hold ambitious people back… the difference between performing and simply looking performative… and why the best leaders train more like elite athletes than corporate executives.
From his early days at Texas Instruments and Price Waterhouse to helping shape consultative selling at IBM during one of the biggest transformations in tech history, Sam shares the experiences that shaped his coaching philosophy — one built on awareness, authenticity, curiosity, and relentless growth.

Along the way, Jeff and Sam unpack:
🔥 Why high performers often become their own biggest obstacle
🧠 The power of a personal “brand promise” — and how it changes the way you show up
⚡ Why “what got you here won’t get you there” has never been more true in the age of AI
🤖 What executives are really wrestling with right now as AI reshapes work, leadership, and decision-making
💡 Why recovery, reflection, and curiosity may be the ultimate competitive advantages

This episode is thoughtful, deeply human, and filled with practical wisdom for anyone trying to grow into the next version of themselves — whether you lead a global organization or are simply figuring out your next move.

We are Talking Shift to make shift happen.

As hospitals move toward Automation and Smart Buildings, we explore how Integrated Technology is transforming the Patient Experience. We discuss the infrastructure required to make "Smart Hospitals" a reality.