The Irish Tech News Podcast
By Irish Tech News
We aim to cover innovation, entrepreneurs, startups, green tech, clean tech and tech for good that aims to help the planet.
If you have a good story drop us a line.
Public transport is very poor Joel Gray, Pick a pump
Over the past few years the cost of living is really biting, with grocery shopping, electricity prices, and fuel prices coming under close scrutiny. Thankfully Pick a pump, a new free app, which is available on the App Store and the Google Playstore will help.
Pick a pump compares fuel prices in petrol stations in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland and the UK. Ronan recently caught up with Joel Gray the developer of Pick a pump.
Joel talks about his background, how he developed Pick a pump, why Pick a pump has no ads and more.
More about Pick a pump:
It’s a free app that helps drivers compare fuel (petrol/diesel) prices across petrol stations in NI, ROI, and the UK.
Some main features include:
- Station services and contact info
- My Garage section with MOT/NCT info
- Traffic Warnings
- Traffic camera feeds (for premium users in NI)
- Favourite Stations (premium)
- eCharger support
Revolutionizing Bank Workflows with AI
In today's rapidly evolving financial landscape, staying ahead requires strategic innovation. 💡
Join me for an illuminating discussion with Máté Jendrolovics, CEO and Founder at Intuitech, on a new episode of One Vision Podcast, where we delve into how modern banks can harness technology to streamline processes and enhance customer relationships. Discover the future of automation and the human-led, agent-enhanced banking model.
#AI #Agents #Fintech #DigitalTransformation #BankingIndustry #Leadership
The internet of agents Richard Blythman, Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Naptha.AI
Blockchain Ireland’s annual conference serving the blockchain, crypto and Web3 communities, Blockchain Ireland Summit 2025 kicks off this Friday. One of the speakers at the two day conference is Richard Blythman the Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Naptha.AI, a startup building open, decentralised infrastructure for the next generation of AI.
Richard’s background is in machine learning, engineering, and academic research, and his work focuses on enabling developers to build intelligent agents that can work together, without relying on centralised platforms or Big Tech infrastructure. Ronan recently caught up with Richard.
Richard talks about his background, the internet of agents, what naptha does, AI privacy, eu regulation and more.
More about Richard Blythman:
He previously co-founded Algovera, one of the earliest players in the decentralised AI sector, and holds a PhD in Engineering from Trinity College Dublin. His experience spans from building generative models and digital avatars in Big Tech, to leading research on fluid dynamics, multi-agent coordination, and privacy-preserving AI systems.
At Naptha, Richard is exploring how decentralised agent networks could reshape everything from software development to data ownership, and why open standards like MCP are key to unlocking that future.
The Role of a Modern CFO in the Age of AI and Automation
oin us on the One Vision Podcast with Chris Juneau, Senior Vice President, Head of Product Marketing, SAP Concur, as we dive into the evolving role of CFOs in the era of AI and automation. Discover how geopolitical challenges and manual processes are shaping strategies for 2025, and hear insights on leveraging AI to optimize costs and drive efficiencies. Tune in to learn how CFOs are stepping out of the corner office to bridge organizational gaps and reshape finance.
#AI #FinancialServices #Fintech #Podcast #SAPConcur
The notebook is going to transform how you do your job Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead at Dell Technologies Ireland
The PC has been one of the most important personal devices of our lifetime. From the use of standalone PCs for word processing in the 1980s to the emergence of the World Wide Web and powerful processors in the 1990s to the rise of laptops in the 2000s and the era of 2-in-1s in the 2010s, the PC has continually evolved.
Now AI is transforming the PC as we know it. AI-powered devices are helping to automate repetitive tasks, summarise documents and meetings, make adjustments to user behaviours and are enabling everyone to become content creators. New AI devices have updated components inside—the NPU, CPU, and GPU—which means they can handle workloads far more efficiently, allowing the user to have a smooth, engaging, collaborative experience and be productive at the same time.
Ronan recently caught up with Tara Gale, Client Solutions Country Lead at Dell Technologies Ireland to find out more about how AI will redefine the PC and personal devices that we all now rely upon. Tara talks about her background, pc changes, AI NPU and more.
More about Tara Gale:
Tara is the company’s lead voice on devices in Ireland, is a clear communicator and a really good and enthusiastic conversationalist. For over ten years, she has led the devices side of the businesses at Dell Technologies Ireland and is the lead expert on AI PCs. Moreover, Dell has been at the forefront of PCs and other personal devices over the past four decades. In January, Dell unveiled a new portfolio of AI PCs.
The Future of AI: Trust, Governance, and Human-Centered Solutions
In the latest episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse, Fabio Ardossi, founder of the House of AI, joins Theo to discuss the realities of AI implementation and the challenges of governance, and the crucial role of human-centric approach to AI. The conversation also touches on enterprise readiness, AI literacy and the issue of trust. What do we need to be mindful of as technology evolves? Is the future agentic? Tune in to gain insights into the evolving world of AI and its practical applications in business. Join in the conversation now.
#AI #Innovation #ResponsibleAI #GenerativeAI
Fair trade is a fascinating learning laboratory Paul Rice, founder and former CEO of Fair Trade USA
Paul Rice is the founder and former CEO of Fair Trade USA and his new book Every Purchase Matters was published last month. With decades of experience at the intersection of business, supply chains, grassroots farmer leaders, and consumer trends, Paul knows how ethical sourcing transforms industries and why it’s becoming a strategic advantage for brands navigating today’s unpredictable economy. Ronan recently spoke to Paul about his background, how fair trade started, his book, technology, the future of Fair Trade and more.
More about Paul Rice:
As the architect behind one of the most successful socially conscious initiatives, Paul turned the concept of ethical sourcing from a few Nicaraguan coffee co-ops into a movement embraced by 1,700 major brands and retailers.
Today, Fair Trade products are a staple in U.S. supermarkets—proving that values-driven consumerism is not only thriving but reshaping the way companies do business. Paul’s new book Every Purchase Matters offers a rich and persuasive case for conscious capitalism including the change it has brought and the potential it still has to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable world.
The problems Spree Finance solve Carter Razink, Co-Founder Spree Finance
Carter Razink is a product and technology leader with 8+ years in Web2 and Web3, blending deep technical expertise with entrepreneurial success. As a former co-founder of DropChain and current product lead at Spree, he has driven innovations in tokenomics, protocol design, and blockchain engineering.
A National Science Foundation research graduate turned serial entrepreneur, Carter combines vision and proven expertise to shape the future of blockchain with Spree Finance.
Simon chats with Carter to learn more about this new and exciting blockchain technology that Spree Finance is aiming to make a big splash in the travel and experience sectors.
About Spree Finance
Spree is a next-generation commerce and rewards platform that enables humans and AI agents to seamlessly spend crypto on everyday goods, services, and exclusive experiences starting with travel and experiential verticals. Spree combines payments, loyalty, and financing into one integrated Web2 and Web3 solution.
With access to over 2M Web2 merchants and a growing network of curated experiences, Spree makes commerce easy while unlocking savings, rewards, and exclusive "money-can't-buy" opportunities.
Unraveling the vision for automation in finance
In this episode of One Vision — The FinTech Fuse, we sit down with Sandeep Sood, CEO of Kunai, and Sumant Shringari, CEO and co-founder of Pontus Labs, to talk about the hot topic du jour: AI in banking operations. Discover the fascinating origin story of Pontus and their approach to enabling automation in corporate processes. Tune in to explore how they're transforming enterprise productivity and delivering real value beyond the buzz.
“There is no doubt that unbelievable amounts of productivity are going to be unleashed, but I think the industry is currently caught up in looking for the shiniest tool. Can this thing do this task 30 seconds faster? Can it handle 1 million tokens? And we're approaching the problem from the exact opposite side of the spectrum, which is, can we reduce manual work in a meaningful way?”
You can follow Sumant on LinkedIn or visit the Pontus Labs website to learn more about their projects and their vision for the future of finance.
**
This is a glimpse into how technology, combined with industry expertise, is poised to transform our everyday financial experiences. Stay tuned for more episodes from "One Vision — the FinTech Fuse," where we keep you in the loop of cutting-edge industry insights and transformations.
#FinTech #AI #BankingOnAI #Automation #FinancialServices #BankingIndustry
One company’s solution is another company’s initiative Andrew Sheehan, CEO sustainabilityexamples.com
Did you know that the term 'Sustainability Examples' is searched 170,000 times globally per month (circa 5,000 in Ireland per month). Did you also know that
99.8% of Irish businesses are SMEs. Individually, they have small carbon footprints, but collectively, they account for 38% of Ireland's CO2 emissions (63% in Europe). While many SMEs are taking action, they struggle to gain awareness, recognition and measurable commercial advantages for taking action.
This is why Andrew Sheehan built a sustainability engagement platform (sustainabilityexamples.com) to change that. Ronan recently spoke to Andrew about his background, what sustainabilityexamples.com does, three ways of changing behaviour and more .
More about sustainabilityexamples.com:
There are two types of users on the platform: Champions and Doers. The platform helps Irish SMEs driving climate action (doers) gain more visibility, greater recognition and a faster ROI for taking action by providing a platform where they can launch, share, and compete for prominence on the homepage leaderboard through community engagement with climate-engaged supporters (champions).
By providing impact leaders with measurable recognition and data-backed commercial advantages for launching examples of their initiatives and solutions on the platform, the platform’s purpose is to encourage more SMEs to also start taking action.
Building Inclusive Technologies For A Better Future
In our latest episode of One Vision podcast, Neil Milliken, VP - Global Head of Accessibility at Atos, shares why embracing disability inclusion is crucial for both the individual and society. Tune in to understand how technology is reshaping interactions and the potential risks of AI in decision-making and perpetuating societal exclusions. Ultimately, accessibility is everyone's responsibility. Don’t forget to look for the builders.
#InclusionMatters #AI #Disability #Innovation #Technology
Gaming as a service Jay, Co-Founder / Chief Strategy Officer PlaysOut
Jassem “J” Osseiran is an experienced entrepreneur and operational investor based in London. With a deep understanding of global finance gained through his Economics degree at the University of San Francisco, Jay began his career as a tech venture builder with Rocket Internet in New York. He then shifted his focus to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), managing media portfolios and founding startups tailored to the region.
A sought-after advisor for high-growth brands and cutting-edge technology platforms, Jay has orchestrated multiple successful exits, including a notable IPO on the London Stock Exchange. In 2020, he founded 611 Capital Investments, concentrating on investments, incubation, and market scalability across the EU, the Middle East, and Asia.
Currently, Jay is the Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of PlaysOut Technologies, where he is spearheading the commercial framework for seamlessly integrating mini-games within super apps. This initiative represents a significant shift in the digital ecosystem, leveraging evolving Web3 technologies to unlock immense potential for mini-games in the digital space.
Ronan recently caught up with Jay and he spoke about his background, what PlaysOuts do, blockchain, AI agents, one click publishing and more.
More about Playsout:
PlaysOut is a globally oriented open platform for mini-programs that fully aligns with the Weixin Mini-Program framework. It provides SDK interfaces for super apps, offering a rich array of mini-program and mini-game content.
Additionally, PlaysOut streamlines the integration process for developers, providing convenient tools and seamless access to mini-program and mini-game products. Leveraging its robust technical capabilities and deep collaborations with game developers, PlaysOut aims to connect with global traffic partners, gradually expanding its reach across international markets. Its goal is to become the largest open platform for mini-programs and mini-games worldwide.
Navigating Today’s Volatile Landscape: à la FinTech Supper Club
What happens in fintech conferences … doesn’t need to stay within the conference halls.
Curious to hear what we talk about at fintech dinners? Join Julie Muhn, Millicent Tracey, Pam Kaur, Tammy Bangs, and Theodora Lau on this week’s One Vision — FinTech Fuse for a dynamic discussion on the current state of FinTech. From the sudden halt of Klarna's IPO (IP No!) and the impact of market volatility, to the implications of deregulation and the rise of stablecoins, there is (unfortunately) no lack of topics at the dinner table. How will the current economic environment influence consumer behavior? How can small businesses navigate the uncertainties?.
Join us as we explore the complexities and opportunities of today's 24-Hour news cycle.
I wanted to create a charitable organisation as effective as a startup Nikita Kuzmin, the founder of Helpster Charity US Inc
Technology at the moment is being used in lots of different ways. Helpster Charity US Inc, for example, is using technology, leveraging it to ease healthcare access for vulnerable populations across Africa and Asia. I recently spoke to Nikita Kuzmin, the founder of Helpster about this and more.
Nikita talks about his background what Helpster does, how they are saving children’s lives, how Helpster uses technologies and more.
More about Helpster Charity US Inc:
Helpster is saving lives by bridging the gap between indigent children in need of medicare and individuals willing to fund their treatment via an innovative app and a web platform.
Through its tech solutions introduced in 2023, it has saved over 700 underprivileged children in Africa and Asia via donations on the app and web platform, with several others awaiting funding.
Navigating the Realities of Entrepreneurship – Insights from Industry Veteran Nektarios Liolios
In this episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse! Theo is joined by industry veteran Nektarios Liolios, a pioneering force in the field of fintech. Nektarios shares his journey from Innotribe and Startupbootcamp, to Rainmaker and his work with founders. He delves into the intrinsic challenges founders face, the often-overlooked mental health aspects, and the high pressure environment within the fintech and startup ecosystem. From corporate innovation to entrepreneurship, this insightful conversation lays bare the realities and resilience needed to thrive in this demanding industry. Essential listening for anyone interested in the inside workings of fintech, startup culture, and the human aspects often left in the shadows.
Hot take: Do we care about entrepreneurs as individuals?
It was the magic of the internet Debbie Soon, entrepreneur
Debbie Soon is a Singaporean investor, entrepreneur, content creator, art collector, and advocate for inclusivity in the global onchain community.
With over a decade of experience spanning finance, consumer tech, retail, media, and wellness, Debbie aims to shape the future of consumer businesses from the U.S. to her home country of Singapore.
Debbie recently published her new book Digital Mavericks: A Guide to Web3, NFT’s, and Becoming the Main Character of the Next Internet Revolution. Ronan recently caught up with Debbie.
Debbie talks about her background, what HUG does, crypto, blockchain technologies, her new book, and more.
More about Debbie Soon:
Debbie has served as the co-founder and Co-CEO of HUG, launched in 2022 alongside Facebook Live creator Randi Zuckerberg. With 35,000+ users across 180+ countries, HUG is an inclusive social marketplace where next-generation creators can showcase and sell their work both onchain and offchain.
During her time at HUG, Debbie secured partnerships with major brands including the NFL’s Los Angeles Chargers, DIOR, and the United Nations. She recently led HUG to a successful acquisition by .ART Domain Registry, the leading domain operator for the arts and creative industry.
Passionate about bridging the gap between the arts and technology, Debbie is dedicated to using blockchain technology to create more inclusive and fair opportunities for creators.
In 2023, she was recognised by NFT Now as one of 10 trailblazing Asian founders shaping the future of Web3. Debbie has also spoken at leading blockchain conferences including NFT NYC, NFC Summit, and the USC Blockchain Conference.
Monetary policy should not be under the prerogative of a human committee it should be algorithmic Thomas Ruble, co-founder, Nirvana Finance
Thomas Ruble is a humanist and technologist. His career began with an advanced degree in computer science, leading him through diverse industries—from healthcare AI and banking to cloud infrastructure.
Today, he focuses on decentralised finance, drawn by the promise of open, autonomous systems enabled by blockchain technology. Thomas is a co-founder of Nirvana Finance who are redefining token markets and elevating the decentralised finance landscape.
Ronan recently caught up with Thomas to find out more about decentralised finance and the role Nirvana Finance is playing in this. Thomas talks about his background, what Nirvana Finance does, bitcoin, ethereum, the stages of temptation, blockchain and more
More about Nirvana Finance:
Founded by a distributed team of DeFi veterans with deep roots in the Solana ecosystem, Nirvana is on a mission to redefine token markets and elevate the decentralised finance landscape
With the relaunch of Nirvana V2, the team reaffirms its commitment to building secure, transparent, and equitable financial systems for all.
The Future of Risk Management: AI, Banking Industry, and Beyond
Join me and Sajid Iqbal, Head of Risk at Habib Bank AG Zurich, as we explore the evolving landscape of risk management on a new episode of "One Vision - FinTech Fuse!" From AI innovations in cybersecurity and the rapid pace of technological advancements, to the power of storytelling and the importance of unlearning and relearning in today's fast-paced world, this episode packs nuggets of wisdom for both industry insiders and curious minds. Don't miss out on these forward-thinking ideas. Hit that play button! 🏦💡
Hot take: Risk management is steering wheel, not brakes.
We are playing a challenger role Sudip Lahiri, Executive Vice President & Head Europe & UKI, Financial Services
HCLTech have been part of Ireland’s IT ecosystem since 1991 and they work with many of the biggest global businesses in banking, insurance, capital markets, FinTech and financial compliance/risk. The company is one of the leading innovators in AI, with annual revenues of $13.8billion and a workforce of over 220,000 people.
The business in Ireland serves 100 million financial services customers & is based there to meet the needs of Europe’s financial sector. It has developed strong partnerships with financial institutions helping them navigate complex digital shifts, regulatory changes & operational improvements.
To find out more about HCLTech I recently caught up with Sudip Lahiri, HCLTech’s Executive Vice President & Head Europe & UKI, Financial Services.
Sudip talks about his background, financial services, Brexit, cryptocurrencies and more.
More about Sudip Lahiri, Executive Vice President & Head - Europe & UKI, Financial Services
Sudip Lahiri heads the Financial Services group in Europe with a focus on the UK, Ireland, Benelux, Nordics, DACH, France, Iberia and South Europe for HCLTech.
With over 28 years of experience in IT and over 25 years in the European market, Sudip has made significant contributions towards HCLTech’s global Financial Services business and managing top Financial Services customers.
Sudip has been working for HCLTech for the last 25 years and has been instrumental in setting up and growing HCLTech’s business in Continental Europe.
Sudip reflects HCLTech’s vision of supercharging progress for our clients through passionate commitment and building enduring relationships. He has been the backbone of the Financial Services team, leading with charisma and compassion.
His conviction for running the business beyond transactions and far-sighted approach to creating solutions have been instrumental in growing the business in Europe. He has put great e‑o and dynamic thinking into building cXstudio, Co-Innovation Labs and Nearshore Centres in Europe.
How Do People Bank? Exploring Rural Banking and AI in Financial Services with Andra Sonea
In this episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse, I sit down with the brilliant Andra Sonea, a veteran in financial technology and solution architecture, to explore the challenges of banking in rural communities, the concept of postal banking, and the realities of digital banking. We delve into the extensive research that Andra has conducted on financial inclusion using spatial analysis, as well as the evolving role of artificial intelligence in our industry. It's a must-listen for anyone passionate about the intersection of tech and finance, the progress we’ve made, and how much further we still have to go. Spoiler alert: We still need humans.
👉 Listen in and join the conversation.
👉 Read some of Andra’s research here.
The ability to understand cognitive load Pat O’Connor, CEO of VRAI
In a world with increasing conflicts, governments are under pressure to increase their defence spending. In Ireland, the government announced a record €1.4 billion defence budget for 2025. This trend makes the production and exporting of dual-use technologies fundamentally strategic for international markets. Pat O’Connor has experienced this with his company VRAI, which he founded in 2017. Pat believes that dual-use technologies will continue to play a big role in our economies and I recently caught up with him.
Pat talks about his background, the startup journey, simulation technology, dual use technology, and more.
More about Pat O'Connor:
Pat O’Connor is a Co-Founder and CEO of VRAI. He served in the Irish Defence Forces for over 20 years, where he undertook a variety of roles, including Reconnaissance Unit Commander, Deputy Director of Communications and as a spokesperson for Three Irish Chiefs of Defence.
He also completed over three years of operationally deployed service with the United Nations’ Peacekeeping and Peace Enforcement missions in Liberia, Syria, Lebanon and Israel
. Pat also has an M.A. in Political and Public Communication as well as an MSc in Business, Leadership and Management and founded VRAI alongside Niall Campion in 2017 to provide greater simulation training technology to military forces.
Project Nemo: Driving the Future of Disability Inclusion in FinTech
In this enlightening episode of One Vision, we chat with Joanne Dewar, a trailblazer for disability inclusion in FinTech. Jo shares her journey, starting from her pivotal work at Global Processing Services (GPS), to the inception of Project Nemo—a groundbreaking initiative empowering disability inclusion across the FinTech industry. Insights cover the essential role of assistive technologies, the journey to securing broad industry partnerships, and the real-world impact on bringing systemic change within the financial sector. This is an empowering conversation that will leave you feeling a bit more positive about our challenging world.
Balancing the human cyber equation roundtable with Richard Ford, Brian Martin & Sonya McSherry Integrity360
Last Thursday Integrity360 held their annual Security First Conference in the Aviva Stadium. Balancing the human cyber equation was the theme of this years Security First Conference and some of the speakers included Richard Ford, CTO, Integrity360, Brian Martin, Director of Product Management, Integrity360 and Sonya McSherry, Client Partner, Integrity360. During the conference I did a roundtable with Richard, Brian and Sonya.
We discussed the conference which is now touring various cities around the world the world, prioritising awareness and training, deepfakes, digital forgery, zero trust and more.
More about Integrity360:
Integrity360 is an industry-leading cyber security specialist operating in Ireland and the U.K. Since 2005 they’ve earned the status of trusted security advisor for over 1,500 clients across UK and Ireland.
Their Security First approach positions security as an enabler and empowers their clients to do business securely.
Long-Term Care Revolution: Driving Empathy and Innovation using AI
In this new episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse, we welcome Lily Vittayarukskul, Co-founder and CEO of WaterLily, and trace our way back to the roots of the podcast through the intersection of AI, longevity, and fintech.
After experiencing the devastating financial and emotional impact of caring for a loved one, Lily pivoted from aerospace engineering to found WaterLily—a platform using AI to predict future aging care needs and help families create sustainable financial and care plans. Imagine being able to receive personalized care predictions and get the long-term care protection that families truly need. This powerful intersection of financial services and healthcare is transforming how we plan for aging — turning a traditionally difficult conversation into an empowering human experience — facilitated by data and the right user experience.
This is the innovation we’ve been waiting for.
🌊 Learn more at waterlily.com
#FinTech #AI #FinancialServices #Longevity #Healthcare #Retirement
Incorporating everyday uploads Lorcan Melia, Co-Founder AdLab
Here on the Irish Tech News podcast we love to promote new Irish startups. One such startup is AdLab, an app that aspires to bridge the gap between consumers and Irish fashion brands, , with the aim of creating collaborative and authentic marketing campaigns via User Generated Content (UGC).
AdLab provides a cost effective means for brands to access new content. All content will be screened by the App, to ensure that it matches the brand's specific content requirements (set out by the brands themselves). I recently spoke to one of AdLab’s Co-Founder’s Lorcan Melia.
Lorcan talks about his background, What AdLab does, how AdLab started, Enterprise Ireland's New Frontiers (Phase 2) programme and more.
More about AdLab:
AdLab was born because the Co-Founders believe that marketing and advertising is rapidly heading towards 'authenticity' - customers react well to seeing real people.
AdLab allows brands to access and showcase their own customers' content for their digital marketing purposes, creating a relationship between the brand and their customer. AdLab aims to give brands access to a wealth of affordable and authentic content.
Video has proven to have far more effective memory and data retention rates Andrew Nolan, CEO tapybl
The Spider awards are taking place later this month and one of the finalists in the ”Best Use of Disruptive Technology" award is tapybl. Andrew Nolan, a homegrown Irish IT entrepreneur on a mission to change the face of eLearning globally is the brains behind Tapybl. I recently caught up with Andrew.
Andrew talks about his background, what tapybl does, pop quizzes and more.
More about tapybl:
The way content is consumed has evolved—learning should, too. But for too long, it’s been stuck in outdated formats—static slides, endless PDFs, and passive content that fails to engage modern learners.
That’s why tapybl was built, an AI-powered interactive video learning platform that transforms prompts, PDFs, PowerPoints, and lesson plans into engaging experiences—instantly.
Bridging East and West in FinTech 🌐
In this episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse Podcast, we dive into the world of digital banking and fintech innovations in Southeast Asia. Joining us is David Jimenez Maireles, a renowned fintech expert and fractional C-suite leader. David shares his journey from building a digital bank in Vietnam to understanding the massive opportunities in a region with the unbanked and underbanked population. We discuss the unique and fun UX/UI features his team implemented, and explore the significant differences between digital banking ecosystems in Asia and the West. We also touch upon the role of traditional banks, the rise of embedded finance, and the exciting future of financial services in a region poised for exponential growth.
Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with real-world examples and visionary perspectives. Tune in to understand why Southeast Asia is a hotbed for fintech innovation. 🎙️
We’re on a long arc of the development of the internet Pete Townsend Managing Director, Techstars Web3 Accelerator
The World Wide Web has gone through various iterations. Starting with Web 1.0, moving onto Web 2.0 and now Web 3.0. Each version of the world wide web evolved adopting the latest tech available, with Web 3.0 adopting tech such as AI and Blockchain.
One person who knows all about Web 3.0 also known as Web3 is Pete Townsend the Managing Director of Techstars Web3 Accelerator.
Ronan recently caught up with Pete Townsend before the upcoming March 10th event that aims to kick off the Techstars Web3 Class of 2025.
Pete talks about his background, Blockchain, Techstars, Web3, the upcoming March 10th event and more.
More about the Techstars Web3 Accelerator:
This accelerator works with entrepreneurs building in web3 and enabling the next wave of growth in the decentralised internet and in tokenised economies. Investing in and accelerating founders enabling the onboarding and engagement of the first one billion users of web3.
Beyond the Hero's Journey: Rethinking Success in Fintech Innovation
In the shadows of "heroic CEO" narratives and hustle culture mythology, what truly drives lasting innovation in fintech? While we often celebrate the dramatic stories of founders sleeping in offices and pulling rabbits out of hats, the quiet architects of lasting change tell a different story.
The most successful innovators share an unexpected trait: they embrace deliberate patience over heroic sprints. They take time to whiteboard their company's future when conventional wisdom screams for immediate action. They invest in careful hiring when investors demand rapid scaling. Perhaps, resilience isn't about unwavering conviction, but about remaining teachable and responsive to feedback. As we reimagine the future of financial services, perhaps it's time to celebrate not just the visionaries, but the quiet builders - those who understand that sustainable innovation requires both resilience and restraint, both passion and patience.
Don’t miss our latest One Vision — FinTech Fuse podcast episode with Leda Glyptis, and her new book, “Beyond Resilience”.
There is a lot of innovation around payments Justin Grooms, CEO Bolt
Bolt is a customer conversion technology offering a one-click checkout to its network of more than 80 million shoppers .When their CEO Justin Grooms was recently in Dublin I caught up with him.
Justin talks about what Bolt does, the consumers perspective, the seamless experience with Bolt, payment innovation, Bolts European expansion and more.
More about Bolt:
Bolt has transformed the checkout experience, providing its hundreds of merchant partners, including luxury brand LuisaViaRoma, with a passwordless checkout technology that embeds seamlessly into the retailer’s technology to maintain brand identity. Bolt’s technology, combined with its extensive shopper network, allows retailers to instantly recognise shoppers, increase conversion, and drive revenue.
The art of fintech, innovation, and inclusion
In this episode of One Vision — the FintechFuse, we chat with Sanjib Kalita, Chairman at Fintech Meetup, CEO & Founder at Guppy. Sanjib shares tales from his early career as a graphics chip designer at Intel to becoming a significant voice in Fintech. Our conversation touches on the challenges and unexpected turns in tech and financial services, the importance of human connections at global events, and the five key themes for Fintech Meetup 2025.
Tune in to hear Sanjib’s unique perspective and join us in navigating this dynamic industry.
Hot Take: ”Being able to have that level playing field is really important; and there's an appreciation that everyone is, in fact, a human.”
#FinTech #FinancialServices #BankingIndustry
Social Media literacy Aaron Gibson, CEO Hurree
AI is everywhere at the moment and one person who knows how AI is shaping the future of business is the entrepreneur Aaron Gibson.
Ronan spoke to Aaron about his background, AI, data security and more
More about Aaron:
Aaron Gibson is a seasoned entrepreneur who dropped out of school at 16 to start his own tech company that turned learning into a game. He then went on to sell this company and this is what kick started his entrepreneurial journey. He is now the CEO of Hurree, a company revolutionising how businesses leverage AI-driven data ecosystems.
The Future of Banking: Evolving Roles and Strategic Partnerships
In this episode of One Vision — The FinTech Fuse, Theo and Barb welcomeTracy Lagasse, VP Sales and Customer Engagement at Dye & Durham Corporation, to discuss the evolving landscape of traditional banks and fintechs.
Tracy delves into the competitive advantages of traditional banks, the challenges they face in modernizing infrastructure, and the ways they can adapt through partnerships and collaborations. The conversation also explores the impacts of AI, the changing role of big banks, and the future of financial institutions in North America. Where is the banking industry heading and what it means for consumers and businesses? Listen now to gain insights into the role of trust, innovation, and collaboration in reshaping financial services.
#AI #BankingIndustry #FinTech #OneVision
Insights into the Azul State of Java Report Simon Ritter, Deputy CTO, Azul
The recent Azul State of Java 2025 survey offers a timely window into the use of Java and why it is still so popular. To find out more about the survey and its findings Ronan spoke to Simon Ritter, Deputy. CTO, Azul.
Simon talks about what Azul does, the benefits of Java, the Azul State of Java Report, security and more.
More about Simon Ritter:
Simon Ritter is the Deputy CTO of Azul. Simon joined Sun Microsystems in 1996 and spent time working in both Java development and consultancy. He has been presenting Java technologies to developers since 1999, focusing on the core Java platform as well as client and embedded applications.
At Azul, he continues to help people understand Java and Azul’s JVM products. Simon is a Java Champion and two-time recipient of the JavaOne Rockstar award. In addition, he represents Azul on the JCP Executive Committee, the OpenJDK Vulnerability Group, and the JSR Expert Group since Java SE 9.
Fintech Evolution: Debunking Myths & Exploring Future Trends with Liz Lumley
Join Theo and award winning journalist and fintech expert Liz Lumley in this new episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse, as they delve into the transformative journey of fintech and banking post-2008 financial crisis. They discuss industry misconceptions, the future of banking, the role of regulation, the global perspective on payment systems, and the dynamics between U.S. and European markets. As Liz said, “Reality is not about winners and losers. It’s about bringing traditional players and new players together …” This episode is a must-watch for anyone keen on understanding the nuanced realities of the financial services industry. As an added bonus, you might even hear Liz sing!
We’re at the nascent stage of AI Emma Meehan founder, Precision Sports Technology
Emma Meehan, is the founder of Galway-based tech startup Precision Sports Technology, a winner of the KPMG Global Tech Innovator competition in Ireland. Emma competed for the top spot at the recent global GTI contest which took place in Lisbon last November. I spoke to Emma after she came back from Lisbon.
Emma talks about her background, what Precision Sports Technology does, Enterprise Ireland,, The KPMG Global Tech Innovator competition, Precision Sports Technology plans for the future and more.
More about Precision Sports Technology:
Precision Sports Technology is a tech start-up founded in 2021 by Emma who had been developing the technology for over four years.
It involves deploying artificial intelligence technology and analysis to enhance sports training accuracy through a cutting-edge software platform which uses machine learning, AI and LiDAR to enhance athletic performance, support rehabilitation, and reduce the risk of injury through advanced exercise analysis. Emma herself is also a competitive weightlifter and personal trainer.
Navigating Change and Growth in the Fast-Paced World of FinTech
What happens when you combine a passion for fintech, a dash of remote work insights, and a sprinkle of global adventures?
In this episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse, Theo chats with Bryce Nobles, head of growth marketing at LoanPro. Bryce shares his journey, including a significant move to support his wife's career, adapting to remote work, and driving growth at LoanPro. We discuss the complexities of balancing work and family life, the nuances of remote work culture, and the importance of setting values alongside goals. Bryce also talks about his new book, 'Wake Upward: Change Your Career Trajectory, Find Your Authentic Potential, and Discover Your Purpose In Life,' which encourages breaking free from limitations and unlocking your true potential. Tune in for insights on personal and professional growth in the fast-paced world of FinTech.
About Wake Upward: https://a.co/d/fhBrLh9
#OneVision #Podcast #Culture #FinTech #WorkLifeBalance
How smart technology can tackle energy poverty Tracy Tuffin, Prepay Power and Alan Wyley EnergyCloud
Energy poverty is sadly something that is more prevalent these days and people are facing the eat or heat conundrum. This could soon be a thing of the past as smart technology is being used to tackle energy poverty.
Last year, PrepayPower, Tuath Housing Association, and EnergyCloud launched a successful pilot project in Dublin that provides free renewable energy to 26 residents. The project diverts surplus energy that would otherwise be wasted into powering heat pumps and other services in each home and showcases how smart technology can tackle energy poverty..
I recently spoke to Tracy Tuffin, Head of Residential Business, Prepay Power and Alan Wyley, CEO, EnergyCloud about this pilot project. Tracy and Alan talk about their backgrounds, how EnergyCloud partnered up with PrePayPower, smart technology, curtailment and more.
More about EnergyCloud:
EnergyCloud uses smart immersion controllers and diverted surplus energy that would otherwise be wasted into powering heat pumps and other services in each of the homes. The pilot project, which started last May, is the first partnership between an energy company, PrePayPower, and EnergyCloud. They estimate that over 600 kWh of free electricity was delivered to the residents , equivalent to 463 wash loads, 446 dishwasher cycles, or 512 electric showers.
Canada's FinTech Evolution: Tal Schwartz on Innovation and Growth
In this episode of One Vision – FinTechFuse, hosts Theo and Barb welcome Canadian FinTech writer and investor Tal Schwartz. Tal shares his journey into the Canadian FinTech industry, starting with the Canadian Lenders Association, and the evolution of his popular Canadian FinTech newsletter. He discusses the interconnectedness of the Canadian FinTech ecosystem, the role of specialized financial products, and the launch of his venture fund, Exit North Ventures. Tal also highlights the unique characteristics of the Canadian financial services market and the ongoing challenges and successes within the industry.
Tune in to gain deep insights into the world of Canadian FinTech and the future trends to watch out for. 🇨🇦Available wherever you get your podcasts. 🎧
More about Canadian Fintech substack by Tal Schwartz: https://canadianfintech.substack.com/
#AI #FinTech #FinancialServices #Canada #OneVision
Can software be created remotely? Bence Kiss, Co-Founder Kibit Solutions
In 2020 Covid ushered in a new world and a new way of doing things. Remote working was no longer a taboo way of working, as it increased productivity, gave workers a a great work life balance and it reduced costs for businesses and their workers.
One person who knows this all to well is Bence Kiss the Co-Founder of Kibit Solutions, who provide nearshore remote working development teams.
Ronan recently spoke to Bence about his background, what Kibit Solutions does, why their customers are happy, why remote and nearshore teams is the optimal cost solution, AI and more
More about Kibit Solutions:
Kibit Solutions has been helping companies as a partner to fulfil their true potential since 2016. Always listening, analysing the needs and focusing on the essentials in the execution. Their high performing experts help their clients to ensure their outstanding results.
To ensure efficient project support, they maintain an ongoing commitment to the development of their people and resources. They also value active listening and genuine caring for others. Maintaining an open-door communication policy is one of their top priorities. Located in the heart of Europe, they provide exceptional ideas and rapidly deploy highly skilled resources.
We see changes in our platform almost every month Bobby Voicu, CEO and Co-Founder MixRift
As technology has evolved so has gaming and with innovations such as MR (Mixed Reality) is transforming gaming. One person who knows all about this is the serial entrepreneur Bobby Voicu, the CEO and Co-Founder of Dublin based startup MixRift, an MR gaming studio. Ronan recently spoke to Bobby.
Bobby talks about his background, gaming, the mobile revolution, mixed reality glasses, Halo, Meta Quest, the Irish tech space and more.
About MixRift:
Founded in 2024, MixRift believes in the power of MR to transform the gaming landscape, making it more interactive, accessible, and enjoyable for players worldwide. Our games are designed to be intuitive, allowing for seamless integration into our users' daily lives, ensuring that every adventure is just another reality away.
They are not just creating games; they are creating experiences that leave a lasting impression, fostering a community of players who are as excited about the future of MR gaming as the Founders are.
Dear bankers! Ready or not, change is coming
The future of banking is changing faster than ever! Join One Vision - FinTech Fuse hosts Theo and Barb as they sit down with Katie Quilligan, Investor at BankTech Ventures and Co-Founder of Tech Sis, for a deep dive into what's shaping finance in 2025 and beyond.
In this must-watch episode, we explore:
The real impact of technology on banking
Key challenges in AI implementation
How banks can deliver genuine value in the digital age
Major predictions for the financial sector
What needs to change in banking for 2025
QUOTABLE MOMENT: Ready or not, change is coming!
👉 CONNECT WITH US: Follow Unconventional Ventures — FinTech YouTube channel and One Vision Podcast for more fintech insights. Subscribe for weekly episodes on the future of finance and tech.
Join the conversation!
#FinTech #AIinFinance #DigitalTransformation #BankingTechnology #TechInvestment #Innovation #BankingIndustry #FutureOfBanking #BankingOnAI #Podcast #OneVision
Beyond Digital Lipstick: The Future of Banking Relationships in 2025
🎙️ Kicking off 2025 with a must-listen conversation with fintech visionary Jason Henrichs on making banking actually better in 2025.
🔑 KEY INSIGHTS:
The end of "digital lipstick on a pig": Why superficial innovation isn't enough anymore
Innovation in a world of constraints: Doing more with less
Open banking: Why banks need to stop assuming customers want exclusive "banking relationships" and start delivering real value
Bold predictions for 2025: bank consolidation, AI transformation, and the evolution of data-first banking
💡 HOT TAKE FROM JASON: Banks don't want to admit that their customers are not banking exclusively with you, and nor should they.
💡 QUOTABLE MOMENT: "Pretty isn't necessarily better."
Thanks Jason Henrichs for this incredible discussion on One Vision — FinTech Fuse ! Listen to the full episode to hear our deep dive into the future of banking, customer-centricity, and how to make banking actually better.
It’s time for deep building.
#AI #Fintech #FinancialServices #OneVision #BankingIndustry
👉 CONNECT WITH US: Follow Unconventional Ventures — FinTech YouTube channel and One Vision Podcast for more fintech insights. Subscribe for weekly episodes on the future of finance. Join the conversation in the comments below!
Our mission is to change and save as many lives as possible Stephen Costello, Spectrum Life CEO and Co-founder
Digital transformation is revolutionising the healthcare industry as modern technologies such as smartphones and tablets are being utilised. One person who knows this area well is Stephen Costello, Spectrum Life CEO and Co-founder and Ronan recently spoke to him.
Stephen talks about his background, covid, what Spectrum Life does, mental health and more.
More about Stephen Costello:
Stephen Costello is CEO and Co-Founder, founding the company alongside Stuart McGoldrick in 2018. Stephen graduated from UCD in 2014 with a degree in Economics and Politics and has a postgraduate Diploma in Digital Marketing.
Stephen’s passions include commercial innovation go-to-market strategies and technology changes in the mental health space. Stephen’s major passion is leading a company of highly dedicated professionals across the UK and Ireland who are all on a joint mission of changing and saving as many lives as possible.
Stephen was awarded joint Entrepreneur of the Year at Early Career awards in 2022, celebrating achievements of awardees aged 35 or younger.
Demystifying AI in education: Bridging the digital divide to empower our next generation
While we have covered frontier technologies and the future of work throughout the year, we have yet to approach it from a teaching perspective. In this new episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse! Theo caught up with Paolo Narciso, social entrepreneur and technologist, on his new book: Generative AI in Education.
In a world rapidly transforming by technology, Paolo’s latest book explores how underserved populations can unlock unprecedented learning opportunities through strategic technology access. His writing is a beacon for parents and students who are passionate about embracing generative AI as a powerful educational partner—not as a shortcut, but a collaborative tool for learning and growth. His mission is clear: put students at the technological forefront, equipping them with the skills and mindset to thrive in an AI-driven future. He believes that AI should be integrated thoughtfully into learning journeys, transforming educational outcomes and preparing the next generation for success in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Join us as we demystify AI in education and equip our next generation for success in an AI-driven future.
How we can leverage emerging technology Niall Watters, Co-Founder and CEO Carlichauns
The Irish entertainment company, Carlichauns is soon launching their upcoming animated TV series which will take Leprechaun folklore to a new global digital audience. In parallel to the planned TV series, which will be produced in Ireland.
Carlichauns has also refined its Augmented Reality app which is now available in Los Angeles with more locations in the US plus Melbourne to be added. The company is also set to launch a children’s digital book series based on the Carlichauns as the new brand continues to grow. To learn more about this Ronan spoke to Niall Watters, Co-Founder and CEO of Carlichauns.
Niall talks about his background, what Carlichauns does, how he managed to get Keith Chapman, the creator of the multi-billion-dollar media franchises, PAW Patrol and Bob the Builder to come on board as executive producer, the future plans for Carlichauns and more.
More about Niall Watters:
Niall is a multilingual commercial executive with a strong track record in helping companies to scale at pace internationally. He has acute expertise in understanding how to mobilise & commercialise IP. A keynote speaker, he is often invited to speak to audiences in schools, universities & global businesses.
Digital Dollars, Digital Dangers: Navigating a cashless world
Dive into the evolving world of fintech and digital payments in this new episode of One Vision — FinTech Fuse! Host Theodora Lau sits down with Neeraj Mathur, a tech veteran who recently transitioned from the Bay Area to Bengaluru, India, bringing unique insights into the global fintech landscape.
Explore the nuanced realities of a cashless society, where technological innovation meets security challenges. Neeraj shares critical perspectives on digital payments, highlighting the essential need for robust security strategies in fintech and payments. Learn why cybersecurity must be a proactive boardroom priority, not an afterthought, and how comprehensive policies can protect against emerging financial threats.
Key discussion points:
The transformation of payments in a digital-first world
Challenges of adapting to a cashless culture
Critical importance of security in financial technology
Proactive approaches to preventing digital financial risks
Whether you're a fintech professional, technology enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of money, this episode offers invaluable insights into the intersection of digital innovation and security. Tune in and travel to India with us!
More about Neeraj Mathur: https://neerajmathur.com/
How can we mobilise the resources of the city council Luke Kehoe, Europe Industry Analyst at Ookla
Ookla®, a global leader in connectivity intelligence, recently announced its partnership with Dublin City Council and the City Telecoms Association to identify and tackle telecoms deficits in Dublin. This first-of-its-kind initiative, fueled by Ookla's Speedtest Insights®, offers a practical blueprint for l cities across Europe to drive digital inclusion and optimise network outcomes through actionable, data-driven insights.
The partnership demonstrates how a data-driven approach can enhance connectivity outcomes in a tangible way, empowering cities to better serve citizens. For the first time, the city is addressing connectivity gaps through targeted policy interventions, and fostering collaborative efforts with operators to attract investments that were previously hindered by site acquisition challenges.
Ronan spoke to Luke Kehoe, Europe Industry Analyst at Ookla to find out more about the new partnership
Luke talks about his background, Ookla’s partnership with Dublin City Council and the City Telecoms Association, some of the key points from the partnership case study, how does Dublin compare to other cities and more.
More about Luke Kehoe:
Luke is a telecoms analyst, consultant and entrepreneur. He is a strategic advisor to a number of companies in the telecoms and tech industries and shares his extensive expertise in fixed and mobile networks, electric mobility and strategy with national and local government through consultancy. He is a regular contributor to the Business Post’s telecoms coverage in Ireland and is a prominent voice in the telecoms industry through his writing.
Luke has supported several national and international thought leadership publications in areas such as 5G, IoT, open RAN and edge computing with renowned bodies like the Telecom Infra Project and World Economic Forum. He has a background in electronic engineering and is the recipient of prestigious scholarships for his academic performance and several awards for his participation in statistics, consulting and writing competitions.
Payments Decoded: Global Fintech Frontiers
Payments Decoded: Global Fintech Frontiers | One Vision Podcast
Dive into the rapidly evolving world of financial technology with Theodora Lau and the one and only Carol Grunberg, unpacking the future of global payments. Go beyond traditional payment narratives to explore:
Emerging market innovations and the rise of mobile wallets
How younger generations outside of the are reshaping financial services
The intersection of AI and financial technologies
The future of payments beyond traditional credit and debit
Payments 3.0 and global interoperability
Whether you're a fintech professional, entrepreneur, or tech enthusiast, this episode of One Vision — Fintech Fuse! offers insider insights into the payment technologies driving global commerce and it’s not to be missed. Discover how blockchain, AI, and next-generation payment solutions are breaking down international barriers and creating new opportunities.
New episodes weekly. Subscribe now and stay ahead of the future of money and technology!
Keywords: fintech, digital payments, mobile wallets, global payments, blockchain, AI in finance, payment technologies, financial innovation
#Fintech #FinancialServices #BankingIndustry #Payments #Wallets #AI #Blockchain #SuperApp
Direct to chip is making a lot of waves Chris Carrerio, CTO Park Place Technologies
With Ireland's booming data centre sector under scrutiny for its immense energy consumption. Park Place Technologies is due to unveil an expansion to its IT infrastructure services portfolio with the launch of two Liquid Cooling solutions for data centres, Immersion Liquid Cooling and Direct-to-Chip Cooling.
Ronan spoke to Chris Carrerio, CTO Park Place Technologies to find out more about the future of data centres.
Chris talks about his background, new technologies, immersion liquid cooling, hydrophobia and more.
More about Park Place Technologies:
As the global leader in data centre and networking optimisation, Park Place Technologies expansion its IT infrastructure services portfolio comes at a critical time for businesses grappling with rising energy costs and growing environmental pressures.
These innovative cooling solutions are designed to tackle two of the biggest challenges facing data centres today, operational costs and carbon emissions.