Jeff Edwards has been at the heart of the tech industry for nearly three decades, navigating the waves of disruption and transformation during his 28 years at Cisco. As a seasoned leader with deep insight into partner strategy, market dynamics, and program evolution, Jeff brings a front-row perspective on how change really happens.
Shift Happens is a quick-hit podcast that dives into the most relevant market shifts, emerging trends, and bold ideas shaping the future of business. Each episode features candid conversations with subject matter experts who share real-world insights to help listeners shift their mindset and lead with clarity.

Shift Happens Podcast

What really goes into the biggest partner program evolution Cisco has launched in 20 years? In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards is joined by two powerhouse leaders — Elisabeth De Dobbeleer, SVP of the Cisco Partner Program, and Rhonda Henley, VP of Americas Partner Sales — to unpack what’s new, what’s working, and what’s still in motion with the Cisco 360 Partner Program.
They tackle:
• The mindset shift partners are making
• The biggest wins 
• What teams and partners can do today to set up for success
Insightful. Actionable. Real talk.
Grab your coffee or hit play on your commute — let’s make shift happen.

Shift Happens Episode 1: Unpacking the Cisco 360 Partner Program

Jason Gallo, Global VP of Partner GTM at Cisco, joins Jeff Edwards to unpack the latest evolution of the Cisco 360 Partner Program. From key truths about the new estimator tool to aligning partner investments with what’s next — this episode delivers the insights you need to lead with clarity and confidence.
Tune in and get ahead of the shift.

Shift Happens - Episode 2: A 360 degree shift

In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards welcomes Sharon Price, Director of Strategy & Planning for Cisco’s Global Partner Organization, to unpack the new Cisco Partner Incentive (CPI) Estimator. Sharon shares how the tool helps partners model profitability, plan for growth, and align with the Cisco 360 Partner Program. Whether you're a partner or field team member, this episode gives you the insights—and the action steps—you need to start planning today. Because clarity isn’t the end goal. It’s the beginning.

Shift Happens - Episode 3: Ready, Set, Grow Unlocking Cisco's New Partner Incentive Estimator

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards talks with Ken Seitz, Senior Director at Cisco, about the Cisco 360 Partner Value Index (PVI)—a game-changing shift in how Cisco recognizes and rewards partner performance. They break down how the Partner Value Incentive works, what it means for branding and profitability, and how it’s helping partners sharpen their focus in key areas like networking, security, and AI.
Ken shares insights on the move from a one-size-fits-all recognition model to a more specialized approach, why predictability matters, and how partner feedback is shaping future improvements. Plus, you'll hear exactly what steps partners can take now to make the most of their Partner Value Index scores and the Cisco 360 Partner program.
Key takeaways:
• What the Partner Value Incentive is and why it matters
• How Partner scores impact branding and profit
• Why specialization is the new strategy
• The role of partner incentives
• Actionable ways to boost your Partner Value Index score

Shift Happens-Episode 4: Cracking the Code: Cisco 360 Partner Program & the Partner Value Index

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Rakesh Samtani, Senior Director of Partner Networking Sales at Cisco, to explore how AI is transforming network management and how the Cisco 360 Partner program initiative is reshaping the partner landscape. From key innovations unveiled at Cisco LIVE to actionable insights that can drive growth and profitability, this conversation dives into the $43 billion network refresh opportunity and what it means for partners ready to lead with AI.
What you’ll learn:
• Why AI is the engine of next-gen networking
• How Cisco the 360 Partner Program is evolving the partner model
• The power of new messaging and partner engagement
• Big takeaways from Cisco Live
• How to capitalize on the $43B opportunity

Mic drop moments: 
“We are investing with our partners.”
“AI is moving GDPs.”
“It’s time to buzz the tower.”


Shift Happens -Episode 5: Cisco 360 Partner Program & AI - Unlocking the $43B Networking Opportunity

As cyber threats grow in complexity and AI continues to evolve, the security landscape is shifting at an unprecedented pace. How can businesses and partners stay ahead of the curve?

In this episode, we are joined by Alison Stahl, Director of Partner Security Sales at Cisco, who provides a sharp, practical lens on the current and future state of security. She unpacks the critical intersection of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, offering clear insights for navigating this new frontier.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the next wave of security challenges and opportunities.

In this episode, you will learn about:
•	The most significant emerging trends in cybersecurity.
•	Why simplification is a critical strategy for partner success.
•	How Cisco's AI Defense is actively reshaping security strategies.
•	Key security announcements from the recent Cisco LIVE event.
•	The benefits and opportunities of the Cisco 360 partner program for security-focused partners.

This isn't just a conversation; it's a survival guide for the AI frontier. Don't get left behind.

Shift Happens - Episode 6 - AI and Security: The New Frontier

In this episode of Shift Happens, Jeff Edwards sits down with Brett Harrison, Director of Global Partner Go-To-Market Strategy for Collaboration at Cisco. From flying planes to driving partner success, Brett brings his strategic storytelling superpower to a packed conversation on the evolution of hybrid work, the AI-powered digital front door, and why interoperability is no longer optional.
They dig into:
• Market trends shaping collaboration and customer experience
• How AI is transforming contact centers and redefining brand interactions
• The power of Cisco’s 360 Partner Program and Partner Value Index
• Why “every customer is now a Cisco opportunity”
Whether you're a partner, customer, or Cisco team member—this episode delivers clear, actionable insights to help you grow your collaboration practice and elevate your brand.
👉 Tune in, take notes, and get ready to scale what sticks.


Shift Happens - Episode 7: Make it Simple, Scalable & Sticky - with Brett Harrison

In this episode of Shift Happens, host Jeff Edwards sits down with Cisco’s Andrew Wozniak and Leonard Thompson—two experts leading the charge on managed services across the Americas. They break down why managed services are more than just a trend—they're a growth engine. 🚀
From a 💰 $353B market opportunity to the critical role managed services play in partner profitability, this episode explores:
🔑 Why customers are demanding managed outcomes
🤝 What the Cisco 360 Partner Program means for MSPs
🤖 How AI is transforming operational efficiency
If you’re a Cisco partner—or thinking about becoming one—this is your guide to unlocking profitability, scalability, and competitive advantage in a rapidly changing market. 🌐
🎧 Grab a coffee and tune in. Let’s make shift happen.

Shift Happens - Episode 8: Making Managed Services Your Competitive Edge

The Cisco Podcast Network is a collective of podcasts from across Cisco spanning technology to culture and everything in between. Hear from Cisco customers, partners, and Cisco insiders on the topics that matter most to you. Email us with your feedback and suggestions. Discover your favorite playlists today!