In this episode of TCAST, Jason Rigby sits down with music tech pioneer Nick Holmsten (formerly of Spotify) to explore the evolving landscape of music technology and fan engagement. They discuss the rise of personalized playlists, the ethical implications of data usage, and the potential of blockchain and AI to revolutionize artist-fan relationships. Learn how emerging artists can leverage technology to build a loyal fanbase and thrive in today's competitive music industry. [Primary Keyword: Music Technology and Fan Engagement] Key Takeaways:  Data is King: Discover how Spotify used machine learning to create personalized playlists and how this data-driven approach can benefit both artists and fans. The Fan Power Shift: Understand why fan engagement is more critical than ever and how artists can cultivate direct relationships with their audience. Blockchain's Potential: Explore how blockchain technology could disrupt traditional music industry models, offering greater transparency and control to artists. AI: Friend or Foe? Learn how AI can be a powerful tool for music creation and promotion, but why it shouldn't replace human artistry. Ethical Considerations: Dive into the importance of data transparency and responsible use of user information in the music industry. The Artist as a mini CEO: Artists have more control than ever. Find 1,000 Super Fans: It's never been a better time for artists.  Timestamps:  00:00: Introduction to Nick Holmsten and his groundbreaking work in the music industry. [Keyword: Music Industry Pioneer] 03:08: The Evolution of Personalized Playlists at Spotify: Behind the scenes of Spotify's algorithmic success. [Keyword: Personalized Playlists, Spotify Algorithm] 05:50: Balancing Act: How Spotify introduces emerging artists while catering to user preferences. [Keyword: Emerging Artists, Music Discovery] 09:08: The Power of the Fan: Why fan engagement is the new currency in the music industry. [Keyword: Fan Engagement, Music Marketing] 11:51: Blockchain Revolution: Exploring the potential of blockchain to transform artist-fan relationships and royalties. [Keyword: Blockchain Music, Music Royalties] 15:02: AI and Music: Discussing the role of AI in music creation, promotion, and the future of artistry. [Keyword: AI in Music, Music Production] 17:58: Ethics in the Spotlight: A deep dive into data transparency and ethical considerations in the music tech world. [Keyword: Data Ethics, Music Tech Ethics] 21:04: Building the Future: Nick Holmsten's vision for an ideal tech-driven music platform that empowers both artists and fans. [Keyword: Future of Music, Music Platform] Nicks Website: https://www.nickholmsten.com/

Unlocking Artist Success in the Age of Music Data, AI, and Blockchain

Legal Strategies for Tech Entrepreneurs with Catherine Delcin

In this transformative episode, host Jason Rigby dives into introverted leadership with Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, PhD, bestselling author of The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength (Third Edition). The conversation explores how introverts can leverage their natural strengths—deep thinking, preparation, and engaged listening—to excel in today’s hybrid and remote work environments. Jennifer shares her proven 4 Ps framework (Prepare, Presence, Push, Practice), offering practical tools for navigating meetings, managing energy, and building meaningful connections without compromising authenticity. The episode also tackles common misconceptions about introverts, such as their supposed dislike for people, and highlights surprising traits, like their passion when discussing beloved topics. Jennifer’s insights, drawn from decades of research and partnerships with organizations like Amazon and NASA, make this a must-listen for introverted leaders and their allies aiming to foster inclusive, high-performing workplaces. From networking hacks to creating introvert-friendly cultures, this episode delivers science-backed strategies with real-world impact. Timestamps with Key Points   00:01 – Introduction Jason shares his personal connection to The Introverted Leader and its impact on his leadership journey.   01:07 – Defining Quiet Strength Jennifer explains how introverts’ listening and reflection skills are powerful leadership assets.   02:44 – Busting Introvert Myths Debunking stereotypes that introverts are antisocial or unfit for leadership.   04:20 – Mastering Meetings Strategies like pre-meeting prep and structured facilitation to amplify introvert voices.   08:19 – Preparation as a Superpower How preparation builds confidence and earns respect in dynamic settings.   11:06 – Avoiding Burnout Tips for managing energy with time-blocking and proactive self-care.   13:43 – Balancing Engagement Encouraging introverts to stay connected without over-isolating remotely.   17:22 – Power of One-on-Ones Why introverts excel in deep, meaningful conversations and how to leverage them.   21:38 – Surprising Introvert Traits How introverts surprise others with passion on topics they love.   23:24 – Introvert-Friendly Workplaces Practical steps to create inclusive cultures that value quiet strengths.   27:43 – Extroverts as Allies How extroverted leaders can normalize and celebrate introversion.   32:10 – The 4 Ps Framework A deep dive into Prepare, Presence, Push, and Practice for leadership success.   50:06 – Closing Thoughts Jason and Jennifer reflect on the introvert revolution and its impact.   Notable Quotes   “Introverts don’t dislike people—they just need time to recharge so they can show up fully.” – Jennifer B. Kahnweiler   “Preparation is the introvert’s secret weapon; it frees you to be present and adapt.” – Jennifer B. Kahnweiler   “Leadership isn’t about being the loudest—it’s about listening and acting with purpose.” – Jason Rigby   Key Resources and Links   Book:    Website:    Podcast: Introvert Ally by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler –

The Quiet Strength Advantage: How Introverts LEAD Better (Science-Backed)

In this inspiring episode of the TCAS Podcast, host Jason Rigby sits down with Troy Plota to explore his incredible journey—from being kicked out of his home at 17 to building a multi-million-dollar digital empire. Troy shares pivotal moments in his career, his transition from traditional photography to AI-driven innovation, and how a negative experience with Apple fueled the creation of Plotaverse. The conversation dives deep into the role of AI in art, its risks and opportunities, and how Plotaverse is revolutionizing the creative landscape by putting artists first. Key Moments &amp; Topics   Troy’s Origin Story (00:01 - 03:24)   Troy reflects on his early life as a “surf rat” in Florida, where his passion for photography began despite his father’s skepticism about it as a career.   At 17, he left home with just a camera, kickstarting a lifelong journey as a fashion, advertising, and celebrity photographer.   A pivotal move to Miami and later Atlanta set the stage for his big break in the industry.   Key Quote: “I just picked up my camera and I’ve never had another job ever since.”     Breaking into the Big Leagues (01:22 - 03:24)   Troy recounts how he landed his first major opportunity by organizing portfolios for a modeling agency in Atlanta, leading to paid shoots and exposure to high-profile clients.   His work gained traction, eventually landing him features in GQ and a groundbreaking digital billboard in Times Square—the first shot with a digital camera.   Jason’s Insight: “You came in and started serving right off the bat… creating a ton of value.”     AI and the Future of Creativity (04:12 - 06:02)   Troy embraces AI as a “miracle” for creators, drawing parallels to the shift from film to digital photography.   He argues that AI enhances rather than diminishes human creativity, offering tools to bring stills to life and create films that were once impossible.   Currently collaborating with Ellen von Unwerth, Troy sees AI as a way to stay ahead of the curve.   Key Quote: “If you don’t embrace this, you’re going to be left behind.”     The Apple Betrayal and Plotaverse’s Birth (06:55 - 09:42)   Troy shares a challenging moment when Apple promoted his Plotograph app for the iPhone X launch, only to lowball him with an offer and fail to deliver promised exposure after a $6 million giveaway.   A competitor replicated his app, raking in hundreds of millions, but Troy turned the setback into motivation, building Plotaverse—a social platform for artists.   Positive Outcome: Plotaverse became the world’s first all-AI social platform, fueled by Troy’s resilience and vision.   Jason’s Take: “This is age-old—making a profit off an artist… there’s always this boogeyman behind them.”     Plotaverse: Empowering Artists (10:16 - 15:18)   Troy introduces Plotaverse as a customizable, artist-first platform where creators control their portfolios without algorithmic interference.   Features include pixel-shifting patents to authenticate work, multiple collections for diverse styles, and upcoming monetization tools.   Unlike Instagram’s 7.5% creator payout, Plotaverse reinvests a significant portion of ad revenue back into artists.   Key Quote: “I’ve designed the profile pages to be like your website… you dictate what goes first.”     Unexpected Uses of Plotaverse (12:14 - 13:34)   Troy shares surprising stories of Plotaverse’s impact, from helping people in hospitals combat depression to powering visuals at electronic music shows.   Highlight: “People would say, ‘I was in bed for months and literally addicted to your app… it saved my life.’”     Debunking AI Misconceptions (15:39 - 18:34)   Addressing fears that AI makes art “too easy,” Troy emphasizes the skill of prompting and the collaborative nature of AI creation.   He’s working to make AI tools more affordable and accessible, including open-source models.   Jason’s Insight: “Even the...

​Plotaverse vs. Instagram: The Battle for Artists' Freedom

The collapse of 23andMe is more than a business failure—it's a signal flare for every AI developer and tech executive. In this gripping episode of TCAST, Alexander McCaig and Jason Rigby dissect how a DNA data breach exposed over 7 million profiles and led to the unraveling of consumer trust. With 15 million users now at risk of having their most intimate genetic information auctioned off in bankruptcy court, the stakes for data privacy have never been higher. The hosts unpack philosophical, legal, and technical perspectives: What does it mean to own your DNA? How does consent work when data outlives intent? Featuring insights from thinkers like John Locke and Luciano Floridi, and showcasing TARTLE’s decentralized model, this episode calls for an ethical reboot in how data is handled. Learn why centralized systems fail—and how TARTLE’s Data Vault Connect could've saved the day.  ⏱️ Timestamps   00:45 – Crisis Triggered: What the 23andMe bankruptcy means for tech.   04:20 – Genetic Ownership Debate: DNA as property or identity?   08:10 – Systemic Trust Failure: Consent debt and centralized vulnerabilities.   12:00 – The Gattaca Parallel: Profiling, prejudice, and dystopian AI futures.   17:35 – Zero-Debt Consent Model: TARTLE’s blueprint for data ethics.   21:00 – Data as a Renewable Resource: Lessons from natural ecosystems.   26:10 – Sovereign Nations &amp; Data Wars: Who's buying your DNA?   30:25 – Final Challenge to Tech Leaders: Ethical design isn’t optional.    🧩 Quotes   “Your DNA on the auction block isn’t a sci-fi plot—it’s happening now.” – Jason Rigby   “Centralized systems fail humans. Decentralized ones empower them.” – Alexander McCaig   “Data isn’t just property—it’s an extension of you.” – Alexander McCaig    🔗 Resources    – Explore decentralized data ownership      Books/Concepts: Luciano Floridi’s Informational Organisms, Helen Nissenbaum’s Contextual Integrity

Data Privacy Fallout: 23andMe’s Genetic Scandal

This episode features Mai Moore, a dynamic force in leadership and social impact, as she sits down with host Jason Rigby to explore her transition from a 26-year tech career—helping companies like TravelZoo and United Online go public—to founding EYEJ (Empowering Youth, Exploring Justice) and BossMe In. Mai’s story is one of courage, authenticity, and a relentless drive to bridge generational and cultural gaps, creating lasting change for underserved communities and corporate environments alike. She dives into the systemic challenges facing youth, the inefficiencies of traditional nonprofit boards, and the urgent need for intergenerational leadership as Millennials and Gen Z prepare to dominate the workforce by 2030. Mai offers a masterclass in bold leadership, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, humility, and action over endless theorizing. She challenges tech leaders to “open the door” for diverse voices—particularly women and underrepresented groups—by taking immediate, practical steps like inviting new perspectives into decision-making rooms. Her insights on bridging the digital divide, addressing toxic stress in youth, and fostering equity in corporate settings resonate with anyone looking to lead with purpose and impact. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders eager to evolve, connect, and empower in a rapidly changing world. Timestamps with Key Points:   00:01 – Introduction to Mai Moore Jason introduces Mai, highlighting her bold leadership and social impact journey.   01:19 – From Tech to Social Impact Mai reflects on her 26-year tech career and the pivotal moment that sparked her shift to founding EYEJ.   05:06 – Systemic Issues and Nonprofits Discussion on why 27,000 nonprofits in Cleveland fail to address youth mental health and social inequities.   10:38 – Bridging Tech and Youth Leadership Mai explains how to connect underserved youth with tech opportunities and break the “white male Stanford” mold.   14:23 – BossMe In and Corporate Reform Introduction to BossMe In, focusing on intergenerational leadership and corporate change.   22:31 – Advice for Tech Leaders Mai urges leaders to act now—bring diversity into meetings and hire beyond silos.   30:57 – Inspiring the Next Generation Mai shares what excites her about young leaders and their demand for authenticity and harmony.   33:23 – Conversations with Tech Leaders Practical tips for tech executives: act fast, talk money openly, and understand who you serve.   Notable Quotes:   Mai Moore: “We need to embrace change, be authentic, and say, ‘I have no effing clue’ when we don’t know something—it’s about being human.”   Mai Moore: “Just do it today. Bring someone to a meeting, hire someone for that role—stop overanalyzing and act.”   Jason Rigby: “It’s so awesome to see somebody with courage and boldness also be positive—this is a tough task.”   Key Resources and Links:   Mai Moore’s Website:  – Learn more about Mai’s mission and book her for speaking engagements.   EYEJ:  – Explore Mai’s nonprofit empowering youth for justice.   BossMe In: Visit  for insights on intergenerational leadership.   Related Episode:  – A TARTLE episode on fostering inclusion in technology.   TARTLE Blog:  – How data can drive impactful change.   Call-to-Action (CTA): Ready to lead with purpose and bridge worlds for change? Subscribe to the TARTLE podcast, leave a review, and visit  to join the movement for equity and empowerment. Connect with Mai Moore at  to bring her bold insights to your next event! &nbsp;

Breaking the Mold: A Tech Exec's Bold Plan to Fix Leadership & Social Impact

Struggling with leadership chaos in the age of data? In this episode of TCAST, host Jason Rigby welcomes Will Watrous—entrepreneur, EOS implementer, and former stressed-out CEO. Will shares his journey from a health crisis during 173% company growth to clarity and focus through the EOS model. Discover how data-driven leadership, accountability, and clear roles can transform any organization. Whether you’re a tech leader or a data enthusiast, this episode offers actionable insights to optimize team performance, reduce stress, and achieve sustainable growth. 🎧 Tune in and master data-driven leadership with clarity. 🔗 Connect with Will Watrous:         🌐 More Resources:                ⏱️ Episode Timestamps: 00:01 – Stress Breakdown: Will’s 173% growth nearly breaks him. 01:27 – Health Wake-Up Call: How stress symptoms became a leadership turning point. 03:48 – Accountability Chart: Clear roles reduce chaos and confusion. 05:44 – Visionary vs. Integrator: Why Will had to stop doing it all. 08:09 – Clarity Brings Action: The discipline of weekly accountability. 10:37 – Level 10 Meetings: Elevating team conversations from a 3 to a 10. 13:29 – Six Key Components: The EOS framework that made it all work. 17:29 – The Power of Rocks: 90-day focus creates momentum.  💬 Notable Quotes: “Clarity brings action. Complexity kills it.” – Will Watrous “When the visionary and integrator align, the team unlocks peace and power.” “If it’s human, it’s mentionable. If it’s mentionable, it’s manageable.”  🔍 Keywords: data-driven leadership, EOS system, accountability, executive burnout, leadership transformation, team alignment, TCAST, data ethics, business optimization  📣 Call to Action: Overwhelmed by leadership chaos in your data-driven organization? It’s time to transform your approach. Subscribe to TCAST now for insights on leadership, data ethics, and technology’s impact on business. Discover more at .

Unlock Clarity: Will Watrous' EOS System for Data-Driven Leadership

In this must-listen episode, Colin Graves from North Labs pulls back the curtain on how they're helping enterprises achieve tangible ROI in an astonishing 22 days. If you're struggling with slow digital transformation and want faster, smarter results from your big data and AI initiatives, this is for you. Don't miss Colin's expert insights and actionable strategies!  Modern enterprises drown in fragmented systems, disjointed processes, and siloed analytics—resulting in wasted investments and failed data initiatives. Colin Graves, CEO of North Labs, joins Alexander McCaig to break down why most companies miss the mark: focusing too much on technology and ignoring the human and process elements. North Labs' solution? A revolutionary approach centered on pre-built, industry-specific data models using techniques like Data Vault. This strategy dramatically cuts setup times and ensures insights in as little as 22 days—a staggering leap compared to traditional 12-month ROI timelines. Colin and Alexander dive into why foundational data unification must come before layering on AI or machine learning, how generative AI risks disastrous outcomes without holistic context, and why fast, tangible wins are critical to business buy-in. Whether you're struggling with ERP chaos, bad data, or endless digital transformation promises, this conversation is your blueprint for operational excellence and data ROI at warp speed.  External Links       Want real ROI—not empty promises? Subscribe to TCAST and learn how leaders like Collin Graves are flipping the script on digital transformation. Start unlocking real enterprise value today. Join our mission for ethical tech innovation—Subscribe now on your favorite podcast platform!

Decoding Data Chaos for Rapid Enterprise Growth.

In today's rapidly evolving tech world, the rise of AI-generated code promises unprecedented speed, but it also comes with a hidden trap: unsustainable, brittle systems that collapse under complexity. In this TCAST episode, Alexander McCaig sits down with Gilad Shoham, the visionary behind Bit.dev and Hope AI, to unpack why 90% of AI code will fail unless developers fundamentally change their approach. Shoham introduces the concept of composable programming—building software like Lego blocks rather than stitching fragile snippets together. By treating code as structured, reusable components rather than random lines, organizations can scale their development healthily and predictably. You'll discover how Hope AI redefines "code generation" as "code assembly," why traditional AI assistants are missing the mark, and how holistic code architecture can future-proof your projects. If you're serious about digital transformation and AI ethics, this is a must-listen conversation. 🔗 Resources&nbsp; Internal:         External:            Related Episode:  (TCAST episode)  &nbsp;Want to future-proof your software against AI-driven chaos? Subscribe to TCAST now and explore the real way to scale responsibly with AI. Visit  for more insights and discover how to lead the future of ethical technology. Your innovation journey starts today—don’t miss it! &nbsp;

AI-Generated Code: Why 90% Fails and How to Win

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AI-Generated Code: Why 90% Fails and How to Win

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