AWS - Smart Business Podcast
The AWS Smart Business Podcast explores applied generative AI for businesses and the latest technology advancements across various sectors. It features discussions with business innovators who are integrating cutting-edge technologies into their operations, covering transformative strategies and real-world applications. The podcast is essential for those looking to stay ahead in the digital landscape.
Episodes
How Crunched Turned an Excel Plugin Into the Analyst's AI
Philip Borge (Crunched) and Alexander Engl (AWS Startups) on how a tightly scoped tool for financial analysts grew into an AI workflow platform for banks, Big-Four transaction advisory and management consultancies, and what that journey teaches founders about earning trust before expanding. Recorded live at the AWS Summit in Stockholm.
How Axfood Is Turning AI Into Customer Value, Not Just Cost Savings
Björn Blomqvist (Axfood) and Kellen O'Connor (AWS) on how a thin-margin grocery retailer stacks classical machine learning, generative AI and agentic experiments, and when efficiency stops being enough and the next gain has to come from the in-store moment. Recorded live at the AWS Summit in Stockholm.
Queue-it Spent 15 Years Blocking Bots During Online Peak Events. Now It Has to Welcome Them
Hans Skovgaard (Queue-it) and Jasmine Chua (AWS) on redesigning the gatekeeper for an agentic web, where shopping agents arrive at scale, intent matters more than identity, and trust certificates may become the new currency of access. Recorded live at the AWS Summit in Stockholm.
Iris.ai Has Lived Through Every AI Hype Cycle. Here's What Survived
Victor Botev (Iris.ai) and Kristina Cekanauskaite (AWS) on a decade of making the world's hardest scientific text understandable to machines, and which of today's design choices, from smaller domain-specific models to teams of agents working together, will still hold up two years from now. Recorded live at the AWS Summit in Stockholm.
Syncron on Why Data and AI Are Reshaping Manufacturing, Starting in the Aftermarket
Erik Kjellström (Syncron) and Marc Cervera Castro (AWS) on how AI is moving OEMs from forecasting yesterday's demand to orchestrating tomorrow's uptime, pricing and warranty as one connected system. Recorded live at the AWS Summit in Stockholm.
Ropo Doesn't Sell Software. It Runs Your Invoicing for You
Ilkka Sammelvuo (Ropo) and Ebba af Klercker (AWS) on what happens to vertical SaaS when agentic AI starts doing the work the product used to do, and the case for being a tech-enabled service company instead. Recorded live at the AWS Summit in Stockholm.
How LIME Adds AI to CRM Without Breaking What Customers Love
Johan Andersson (LIME) and Ganesh Shenoy (AWS) on bringing AI Agents into a 35-year-old Swedish CRM, and how to lift sales, marketing and support teams without breaking the simplicity and trust that got LIME there in the first place. Recorded live at the AWS Summit in Stockholm.
Magnus Hazell on Decarbonizing Europe: Aira Group's Disruptive Approach to Residential Heating with AI and Vertical Integration
Description In this episode of the podcast, we're joined by Magnus Hazell, Product Director at Aira Group, and Jesse Kinnunen from AWS. They delve into Aira Group's bold mission to decarbonize 5 million homes across Europe by disrupting the traditional energy market with heat pumps, an established technology. Magnus highlights their aggressive growth, high ambition, and the utilization of AI and d
Anna Almen on Innovating Wealth Management: Infront's Data-Driven Approach to Fintech with GenAI
On the mic today: Anna Almen, CTO at Infront, and Marcela Cazacu Alotleh from AWS. Infront, a leading European fintech company with over 35 years of history, specializes in wealth management and trading. Anna explains how Infront leverages its deep experience and structured historical data to provide advantages to its customers, focusing on data consolidation and seamless integrations within their
Simon Skoog on AI-Powered Logistics: How Apotea Delivers Customer Loyalty Through Automation and Safe AI Wins
This time, we sit down with Simon Skoog, Chief AI Officer at Apotea, and AWS’s David Alele. Apotea, Sweden's leading online pharmacy, maintains its reputation through a core strategy of fast deliveries, low prices, and free delivery, achieved largely through high automation. Simon discusses how Apotea builds its tech infrastructure for future scalability and the dynamic partnership with AWS fo
Nina Laaksonen on Digital Sovereignity: How WithSecure Leverages AI and GenAI to Protect European Companies in a Turbulent World
We’re talking with two great guests today: Nina Laaksonen, Chief Product Officer at WithSecure, and Mitchell Contursi from AWS. WithSecure, a European company with over 30 years of history in cybersecurity, holds a strong stance on digital sovereignty and adheres to strict European compliance and ethical standards. Nina explains how in-built AI and machine learning, a core part of their protection
Angela Timofte on Building Trust at Scale: Trustpilot's AI-Powered Journey to Combat Fake Reviews and Empower Businesses
This episode dives into a discussion with Angela Timofte, Global VP of Engineering at Trustpilot, alongside Berkan Hittet from AWS. Trustpilot's core mission is to be the universal symbol of trust, connecting consumers and businesses through reviews and empowering businesses to grow through customer feedback. Angela explains how Trustpilot, as a digital native, cloud-based company, leverages t
Victor Wennerholm on the Art of Customer Loyalty: How Voyado Hyperpersonalizes Retail Experiences with AI and GenAI
Today’s conversation features Victor Wennerholm, Product Manager at Voyado, and Fanny Nilsson representing AWS. Voyado is recognized as a pioneer in customer experience and loyalty, focusing exclusively on retail and omnichannel brands. They explore how Voyado's platform leverages cutting-edge AI technology for real-time personalization, dynamically showing products and content based on custom
Paolo Palumbo on Defending the Digital Frontier: WithSecure's Co-Security Approach, AI's Dual Role, and the Rise of Agentic AI
In this episode, we dive into the world of cyber security with Paolo Palumbo, Vice President of WithSecure Intelligence, and Joakim Knutar from AWS. Paolo discusses WithSecure’s unique co-security model, emphasizing partnership with customers to extend visibility and protection against complex threats. The episode covers the dual role of AI in cyber security, from enabling rapid response to potent
Amy Chen on Innovating Urban Mobility at KONE: Elevating Buildings with AI, Digital Twins, and the Technician Assistant
In this episode, we are joined by Amy Chen, Chief Innovation Officer at KONE, and Jiska Druey from AWS, to explore how KONE is revolutionizing urban mobility. Amy shares how KONE’s AI-powered Technician Assistant helps 40,000 technicians optimize maintenance by providing real-time insights and troubleshooting suggestions. She discusses how AI and digital twins improve building accessibility and ef
Niilo Säämänen on Building Wolt Grade Technology at Scale: Leveraging Configurability, Logistics Tech, and Generative AI for Rapid Expansion
In this episode, we sit down with Niilo Säämänen, CTO at Wolt.com, and Kirsi Louhelainen from AWS to discuss how Wolt has scaled from a mobile innovation idea to a global delivery giant operating in 31 countries. Niilo shares how Wolt’s focus on building "Wolt grade" products drives their success, emphasizing technical excellence, customer obsession, and engineering craftsmanship. The co
Conversational AI in Regulated Industries: Rasmus Hauch from Boost.AI
In this episode, we welcome Rasmus Hauch, CTO at Boost.AI, and Ragnar Harper, Head of Technology at AWS Norway, to explore how Boost.AI delivers cutting-edge conversational AI solutions tailored for regulated industries. Rasmus explains how their platform drives tangible business outcomes, including improved user experiences and high automation rates, often reaching 70-80%. He shares how Boost.AI
Automating HR Workflows with AI: Luke Buckley & Erik Haugen from ConnectMyApps
In this episode, we welcome Luke Buckley, CTO and founder of ConnectMyApps, and Erik Haugen, CEO, to discuss their new AI assistant, Inira. Built on the Canvas integration platform, Inira automates HR workflows by seamlessly connecting applications and databases, enabling users to compile data, generate reports, and answer complex questions through simple queries. Luke shares insights into the tec
Unlocking AI-Driven Learning with Stig Elsfjordstrand from AlreadyON
In this episode, we welcome Stig Elsfjordstrand, Chairman at AlreadyON, and Ragnar Harper, Head of Technology at AWS Norway, to discuss the transformative role of AI in HR tech. Stig explains how AlreadyON aligns employee development with strategic goals through their innovative solution, Alon Skills. This AI-driven platform uses competence mapping to create personalized learning paths, connecting
Jon Bratseth on Vespa AI: Reinventing Search for Machines with RAG at Enterprise Scale
In this episode, we welcome Jon Bratseth, CEO of Vespa.ai, and Ragnar Harper, Head of Technology at AWS Norway. Jon shares Vespa's innovative approach to enterprise-scale AI, focusing on Retrieval Augmented Generation (RAG) to enable models to access up-to-date, company-specific data. He explains how Vespa's platform combines textual search, vectors, and machine learning signals to achieve
Mikk Lemberg (1oT) on Simplifying Global IoT Connectivity and Using GenAI for Predictive Insights
In this episode, Victor Forsfaelt Ljungberg from AWS speaks with Mikk Lemberg, CPO at 1oT, a cellular connectivity provider for IoT companies. Mikk explains how 1oT simplifies global deployments by aggregating telecom networks and offering customers a single platform, eSIM, invoice, and support channel. He highlights their eSIM solution’s ability to improve logistics, manufacturing, and connectivi
Andrei Gornostajev (Wallester) on Scalable Card Issuing, Compliance, and Applying AI in Fintech
In this episode, Victor Forsfaelt Ljungberg from AWS speaks with Andrei Gornostajev, CTO at Wallester. Andrei explains how Wallester was created to build a modern, real-time platform for card issuing, solving the challenges companies faced with outdated systems. He outlines their growth into a full-service provider with customer onboarding, AML checks, and integrations with personalization centers
Laas Toom (LHV Paytech) on Building a Modern Payments Gateway and Using GenAI for Internal Efficiency
In this episode, Victor Forsfaelt Ljungberg from AWS speaks with Laas Toom, CTO at LHV Paytech. Laas shares how LHV Paytech evolved into a modern, local digital payments gateway, offering innovations like next-day and next-hour settlements and the Request Money 2.0 feature for easier bill splitting via QR or link. He explains their cloud-native approach with AWS for PCI DSS compliance, scalability
Jan-Lamber Voortman (Ohpen) on Cloud-Native Core Banking, Innovation, and Embracing AI Responsibly
In today’s episode, we explore the forefront of financial technology with Jan-Lamber Voortman, COO at Ohpen, and Marcela Cazacu Alotleh from AWS. They discuss Ohpen's pioneering role as the first company to bring a bank to the cloud, highlighting their cloud-native core banking platform. Jan-Lamber shares his leadership philosophy, emphasizing freedom and accountability over rigid rules. The conve
Matvey Teplov (Nomios) on Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Cyber Security and Network Infrastructure in the Age of AI
On the mic today are Matvey Teplov, Director and architectural lead at Nomios, and Paul Muller from AWS, providing deep insights into the cyber security and network infrastructure landscape. Matvey outlines the types of clients Nomios serves and their approach to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry, emphasizing a thoughtful adoption of technology rather than chasing the "bleeding edge". H
Eelco Lempsink (Framer) on Framer's Pivot to a Website Builder, Design-Centric Approach, and the Future of AI in Web Creation
This time, we sit down with Eelco Lempsink, CTO at Framer, and Albert Argente Nordbeck from AWS, to explore the story behind Framer's successful pivot from a prototyping tool to a popular website builder. Eelco candidly discusses the lack of growth that spurred this significant shift and the strategic leveraging of their existing web technology. He highlights Framer's strong focus on desig
Ritchie Vink (Polars) on the Rise of Polars: A Blazing-Fast Data Frame Library and its Journey to Commercialization
This episode features a discussion with Ritchie Vink, founder & CEO of Polars, alongside Jordan Kramsky from AWS, about the development and impact of the Polars data frame library. Ritchie explains how Polars addresses the limitations of traditional data processing tools by offering a multi-threaded, incredibly fast solution optimized for modern hardware. They discuss the business value of Pol
Johan de Keulenaer (Aikido) on Developer-First Security in the Age of Generative AI
Today's conversation features Johan de Keulenaer, responsible for Partnerships & Channel Growth at Aikido, and Albert Argente Nordbeck from AWS, exploring the innovative approach of Aikido in developer security. Yon explains how Aikido differentiates itself by reducing false positives and leveraging AI for auto-triage and auto-fix of vulnerabilities. They discuss the collaboration between
Matthijs Scholten (Bizzdesign) on the Evolving Landscape of Enterprise Architecture and the Impact of AI
In this episode, we delve into the world of enterprise architecture with Matthijs Scholten, Head of Product Marketing at Bizzdesign, and Margot Schipper from AWS. They discuss Bizzdesign's mission to enable business transformation, the importance of a future-state design mindset, and how their platform helps organizations visualize and transform. The conversation explores a client story from Schip
Bas Smeulders: Transforming Shipping for Years, Now Pushing Boundaries with Generative AI at Sendcloud?
In this episode, we dive into the world of logistics innovation with Bas Smeulders, Founder and now COO of Sendcloud, alongside Paul Vereijken from Levi9. Sendcloud has grown into a leading player in the logistics sector, and Bas shares how he has had to reinvent his role time and again to support the company's growth. From his early days as a founder to his current focus on finance and operationa
Fraud Detection and Ethical AI: Insights with Niek Verdoes on FRISS’s Approach to Trust Automation
In the conversation with Niek Verdoes from FRISS and Marcel Heiwegen from Levi9, they delve deeper into the challenges of fraud detection and how FRISS's platform helps automate trust within the insurance sector. Niek Verdoes, who progressed from his role as pre-sales manager to Head of Product, discusses how his experience has shaped his customer-centric approach and enables him to address the sp
Peter-Paul Houtman on Driving Innovation in DAM: How Bynder uses Hackathons to Explore the Future of Generative AI?
In this episode of the podcast, we explore the evolution of Digital Asset Management (DAM) solutions with Peter-Paul Houtman, CTO of Bynder, and Marc van Ogtrop from Levi9. They discuss the rapid pace of technological development and the challenges it brings to DAM platforms. Peter-Paul explains how Bynder fosters innovation through hackathon days, bringing together Bynder employees and external e
How Einar Martin Aandahl Believes Gen AI Can Enhance Collaboration for Scientific Breakthroughs?
In this episode founder and CEO Einar Martin Aandahl explains how Ledidi empowers scientists to securely share medical data, his transition from surgeon and researcher to entrepreneur, and how Generative AI could enhances collaboration for scientific breakthroughs.
How Airthings' Audhild Randa Envisions Gen AI Educating on the Risks of Poor Air Quality
In this episode we explore with Audhild Randa, Airthings' COO/CTO, the importance of air quality monitoring, balancing hardware and software development, inspiring women in tech, and using Gen AI for education about air quality.
How 24SevenOffice’s Magnus Arveng and Lars Erland Leganger Envision Gen AI Transforming the Future of Office Environments?
Strategic Business Manager Magnus Arveng and CTO Lars Erland Leganger tell us about 24SevenOffice’s growth since 1997, how it maintains its startup culture, Lars’ development as CTO, and their vision for the future of office environments.
How Can Small Businesses Tackle Cyber Risks using Gen AI? Advice from Hans van Beek of Secureme2
In this episode, Hans van Beek, Founder and CTO of Secureme2, discusses the risks and opportunities of Generative AI from a security perspective. He highlights the unique cyber risks faced by small businesses and emphasizes the importance of having a cyber alarm system that automatically alerts you when something goes wrong. Tune in to learn about the evolving landscape of cybersecurity and how Se
How Does a CTO Balance Tech and People? Insights from Jacintha Kiewiet of Guidion
In this episode, Jacintha Kiewiet, CTO at Guidion, discusses the unique challenges of her role in a company where technology directly impacts people. She explains how she determines the course of action for her development team while managing the needs of diverse stakeholders, including corporates, technicians, and consumers. Jacintha also explores the impact of Generative AI on Guidion's sche
How Does Leadinfo Approach Lead Generation? Insights from Co-CEO Quirijn Kleppe
In this episode, Quirijn Kleppe, Co-CEO of Leadinfo, shares their innovative approach to lead generation and the dynamics of managing a fast-growing company. He discusses the benefits of sharing the CEO position with his brother in a fast-growing company. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of timing and personalization in the age of Generative AI. Tune in to discover how Leadinfo navigates
What Are the Trends in Integrating Best-of-Breed Solutions? Insights from Michael van Tellingen of Lab Digital
In this episode, Michael van Tellingen, Co-Founder and CTO of Lab Digital, explores the differences between digital and tech agencies. He discusses trends towards integrating best-of-breed solutions and emphasizes the importance of fostering a learning culture and a mindset open to knowledge sharing. Tune in to gain insights into how Lab Digital navigates the evolving landscape of digital solution
How Has Rewire Evolved from Data to AI with Simon Koolstra?
In this episode, Simon Koolstra, Program Manager of Rewire, shares the journey of Rewire from its beginnings in 2006, focusing on data, data science, and machine learning, to embracing AI. He discusses the immense value of data for businesses, the opportunities presented by Generative AI, and the associated risks, including the confidentiality of sensitive data sets. Tune in to learn how Rewire na
What Are the Latest Developments in Telecom with Jörgen Björkner of iotcomms?
In this episode, Jörgen Björkner, co-founder and CTO of iotcomms, delves into the latest developments in the telecom industry. He discusses the complexities of managing large-scale communications, the benefits of serverless architecture, and the unique challenges faced by a fast-growing company. Tune in to discover how iotcomms is navigating these challenges and driving innovation in the telecom s
How Can Data and AI Improve Scandinavia's Energy Grid with Jens Haug of Embriq?
In this episode, Jens Haug, CEO of Embriq, discusses the challenges facing the energy grid in Scandinavia and the potential of data and AI to optimize its use. He explores how predictive maintenance, driven by data, can enhance grid reliability and efficiency. Tune in to learn about the innovative solutions Embriq is implementing to address energy grid challenges and leverage technology for a more
What Are the Opportunities in Digitalizing Procurement Processes with Luis Mendes of Mercell?
In this episode, Luis Mendes, Group Director of Engineering at Mercell, explores the opportunities presented by digitalizing procurement processes for public organizations and corporations. He discusses how digital transformation enhances transparency for suppliers and streamlines procurement activities. Tune in to gain insights into the benefits and challenges of implementing digital solutions in
How Do Integrated Business Solutions and Data Management Drive Success at Connect My Apps with Erik Haugen (CEO) and Luke Buckley (CSO)?
In this episode, Erik Haugen (CEO) and Luke Buckley (CSO) of Connect My Apps discuss the importance of integrating critical business solutions and the challenges of managing data flows within client organizations. They also share their approach to change management, offering insights into how they help businesses navigate the complexities of digital transformation. Tune in to learn about the strat
How Does Data Quality and Quantity Impact the Real Estate and Public Sector with Mia Ryan of SPIR Group?
In this episode, Mia Ryan, CTO of SPIR Group, discusses the critical importance of data quality and quantity in the real estate and public sectors. She shares insights into her responsibilities as a group CTO, including enabling development teams and fostering synergy among multiple startups within SPIR Group. Tune in to learn about the challenges and strategies involved in managing data and drivi
How Is AI-Based Cybersecurity Monitoring Addressing Today’s Challenges with Roman Jasins of Peakdefence?
In this episode, Roman Jasins, co-founder and cybersecurity expert from Peakdefence, delves into the benefits of AI-based cybersecurity monitoring. He discusses how AI enhances threat detection and response, addresses the ongoing shortage of security talent, and examines the implications of the Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) for businesses. Tune in to learn how AI is transforming cybers
What Impact Has Gen AI on Pre-Accounting Practices According to Jeroen Meert at ClearFacts?
ClearFacts is a digital platform that enhances collaboration between accountants and SMEs. The platform focuses on pre-accounting by facilitating the digital submission and management of documents. Technical Lead Developer Jeroen Meert discusses how they simplify administrative processes, provide real-time financial insights to entrepreneurs, enabling them to make better-informed decisions, and ho
What Role Does Gen AI Play in Creating Smart Loyalty or Activation Formats According to Niels de Vries from QueueUp?
QueueUp specializes in customer activation and loyalty programs, aimed at increasing customer engagement. Smart Activation Formats and Smart Loyalty Programs utilize technology and creativity to enhance the customer experience for retailers. Chief Information Technology Officer Niels de Vries discusses how QueueUp creates sustainable and socially conscious programs, the trade-offs between differen
What Impact Does Gen AI Have on Supply Chain Sustainability According to Maurice Bolders and Vishi Anand of Bolders Consulting?
Bolders Consulting protects businesses from rising material costs by specializing in supply chain planning and execution, with expertise in data and analytics. Founder Maurice Bolders and Senior Data Engineer Vishi Anand discuss the increasing complexity of supply chain issues, opportunities for sustainability through more data-driven operations in this field, and the impact of Generative AI on fo
How Is Gen AI Personalizing Travel Experiences According to Idan Ganot of SkyTeam?
SkyTeam is a global airline alliance focused on providing an integrated and responsible travel experience for customers. SkyTeam offers SkyPriority services, allowing travelers from various member airlines to enjoy priority services at airports around the world. Technology lead Idan Ganot discusses their extreme focus on customer experience, how SkyTeam translates their values - responsible, smart
How Can Gen AI Improve Compliance Tools According to Saskia Smeele from Sdu?
Since 1814, Sdu has offered integrated publications, software, and services for professionals in the legal, tax, and government sectors. Saskia Smeele, Chief Information Officer, advocates for greater focus on compliance as a distinguishing value for companies. She explains how Sdu continues to support businesses in this area through innovation and outlines how the rise of Generative AI can provid
What Impact Has Gen AI Had on Payment Solutions at Buckaroo According to Dave van Duivenbode?
Buckaroo offers online point-of-sale payment solutions with a wide range of payment methods and support for online payments, in-store payments, subscription management, and credit management. Dave van Duivenbode, head of platform, explains how a focus on innovation and technology is a key driver for their growth, the company's international ambitions, and how generative AI can contribute to be
How Does Gen AI Influence Corporate Content Strategy According to Hans Fermont and Jeroen Goemans of Qonqord?
Qonqord offers an integrated platform that orchestrates corporate content with features such as digital asset management, content creation workflow, campaign management, and Adobe InDesign automation. Hans Fermont and Jeroen Goemans, partners at Qonqord, discuss how the company has evolved since its inception, what this has demanded of their leadership, and the changes they see in corporate conten
Intro
The AWS Smart Business Podcast is your destination for insights on applied Gen AI for businesses and the latest advancements in technology across various sectors. Delve into discussions with business innovators leading the charge in integrating cutting-edge technologies into their operations. From transformative strategies to real-world applications, this podcast is essential listening for those l
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