In this episode, Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence chat with Rob Coyle, Community Technical Program Manager at Open Compute Project Foundation, who has a rich background in digital infrastructure. Starting in the aviation sector, Rob worked on updating aircraft systems, giving him a strong understanding of electronic and mechanical systems. However, it was the data center industry that truly captured his interest. Over the years, he's taken on various roles, from hands-on engineering to business development. Rob's involvement with the Open Compute Community stands out, especially his work on the OCP Modular Data Center project and the OCP-Ready program. Today, Rob is focused on promoting open-source solutions and sustainability in data centers. He's passionate about sharing his knowledge and helping others in the industry. With a background in hands-on learning, Rob is all about practical solutions and collaboration in the world of digital infrastructure.Nabeel and Phil begin their journey with Rob by going back in time to learn more about his start. As Rob shares that he comes from a family of carpenters Phil is interested to learn if Rob thought he would become a carpenter as well:“I think I always had the inkling that I was going to build something. I'm not a skilled carpenter. I would say, maybe it’s good I didn’t.”Phil digs a little deeper to find out how aviation came into the picture and Rob shares a story about his family’s first computer:“So, I had some old work machine that was a Commodore 64… and they said give it to the kid, let him figure it out. And I had the knack and from there, I've been playing with computers ever since. So then being in the aviation industry, eventually, these kinds of systems and passion for technology and this, I guess, born with the desire to build something pulled me into the data center industry.”Nabeel points out that Rob has had a very interesting career, and he is just starting out. He wants to know what is next for Rob:“It’s about learning more and being more resourceful to help people within our industry and take the advantages that I've been given over the last 10 years and this opportunity to participate and find an industry that I truly passionately love is what it's all about for me.”Rob Coyle's episode provides a unique perspective on transitioning from the aviation sector to the dynamic world of data centers. His journey, marked by adaptability and a genuine passion for technology, offers listeners a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of embracing change. For those navigating their own career paths or seeking inspiration in the tech industry, Rob's reflections serve as a testament to the power of perseverance and continuous learning.Stay connected with Rob Coyle on LinkedIn and Instagram for more insights from his vast experiences in the tech landscape.

In our latest episode, Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence sit down with John Lee, a professional whose 30-year journey through the digital infrastructure landscape has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting his career in the dynamic world of financial services, John quickly developed a nuanced understanding of the pivotal role digital infrastructure plays in this critical industry. From network engineer to IT director, his roles have been varied but always centered around the vital components of digital infrastructure, including data centers, cloud computing, and network architecture. Now, as John seeks to share his wealth of knowledge with the next generation of professionals in the field, he finds himself at a crossroads, ready to explore new challenges and opportunities with the same curiosity and passion that has defined his career.As Nabeel and Phil dive into John’s story, John reflects on a moment that ultimately would place him on the road to where he is today:“I was reading a newspaper and I saw a little ad in the back and it said, you can learn the fascinating field of computers…”Diving into John’s career transition from the corporate world to academia, Phil and Nabeel are interested to hear more about this journey:"If you look today at the profile of new workers coming in…you have to really learn what's motivating people today, and that's how you're going to build great teams. So I became a teacher so I can understand what students think." In a moment of reflection on leadership and managing teams, John shares a pivotal principle that has guided his interactions and decision-making:"I would always tell the engineers, hey listen, if something doesn't feel right, don't do it. I don't mean to ignore it. Stop for a second. Slow down. Ask a question. Get clarification before you do it.”John Lee's episode is not merely a recounting of career milestones; it's a journey through time, technology, and personal development, offering listeners a wealth of insights and stories that span across various facets of life and career. His reflections and advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating through their career, aspiring to lead with empathy, and aiming to strategically set and achieve their goals.Follow John Lee on LinkedIn to stay updated with more inspiring stories and insights.

This week on the Nomad Futurist Podcast, Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence welcome Randolph and Michael Borron from Cushman & Wakefield’s Global Data Center Advisory Group. Randolph, a Vice Chairman with 37 years of experience, is a specialist in data center and portfolio optimization, while Michael, an Associate Vice President, brings expertise in office leasing and data center advisory. Together, they offer a wealth of knowledge and insights into the intricate world of data center real estate, focusing on creating optimum efficiency and minimized risk in real estate solutions. This episode promises a deep dive into the specialized requirements of mission-critical environments and the strategic planning involved in managing commercial real estate portfolios. As Randolf and Michael shared pieces of their backstories, Nabeel and Phil were curious to discover if Michael was exposed to data centers and technology while growing up and figuring out his career path:  “A little bit. I know he told me a bit about it in high school, but I didn't really listen. At the time, you don't think it's important until he's talking about digital infrastructure, and at the time I was just thinking about, how does this relate to how quick my X-Box is?”When asked about their perspectives on the evolving landscape and the future trajectory of the IT sector, Randolph and Michael express their optimism and share insightful observations: “There's a lot of positive signals that we're seeing out there that they're going to show continued growth. We're seeing a lot of changes happen, but they are driving more growth and more applications into the data center, like AI, sort of the latest flavor of what's really driving things…the scale is getting rapidly much bigger.” Towards the end of the conversation, Nabeel inquires about the practicality of nuclear energy, asking whether it is feasible or just a pipe dream. Both Randolph and Michael provide their insights:Michael shares his thoughts, “I see nuclear as a must for, not just the data centers, but I think just our economies to continue to meet the power demands that we have.”Randolph adds on, “I'd love it to be a big scalable solution for us. It's clean. It's proven. It's a sustainable solution. And the amount of generation that is going to be required is just going to be absolutely off the charts.”This episode with the father-son duo, Randolph and Michael Borron, goes beyond their professional narratives; it’s a rich exploration into the nuanced world of data center real estate. Their familial and professional synergy brings a unique perspective, making this a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the evolving landscape of the data center industry. Learn more about Cushman & Wakefield on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, and YouTube to learn more.

This week, Isabelle Paradis, President and Founder of HOT TELECOM, joins Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence on the Nomad Futurist Podcast to jump into her transformative journey in the telecom industry. With an impressive 30 years of global experience, Isabelle is a visionary leader specializing in international and wholesale telecom services. Before founding HOT TELECOM, she earned a bachelor’s degree in engineering and an MBA in Finance. Isabelle is not only an industry expert, but also an advocate for the inclusion of women and young people in technology and science. She serves on multiple boards, including the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for the Asia Pacific (ESCAP) and the Global Telecom Women’s Network.Phil and Nabeel kick off the episode eager to explore what it is that Isabelle does:“I run a company called Hot Telecom. It's been in business for 20 years, and we do telecom, strategic consulting, and market research, focusing more and more on marketing and content.  We are creating fun, memorable content and events for telecom operators in the international space. So, we are really focused, we are niche, in the wholesale and international space.”When questioned about her drive and initiatives in working with the younger generation and creating excitement around the industry, Isabelle shares a valuable insight:"I just tell them, do what you love. If they want to be an entrepreneur, as long as you go in with your eyes wide open, which I think is the key, then do it. If you know what you're getting yourself into and you're happy with that, please go ahead."Isabelle wraps up the interview by sharing some of her key takeaways: "I think the energy you bring, especially positive energy, plays a big part in getting you to a better place.  Giving back has an important role because when you give back you receive so much more in return.  For example, when I work with my customers, I'm a consultant. If at the end of the day, I made them smile and I made a difference in their business or in their life, then I've succeeded on that day."Isabelle Paradis's episode is more than just a career overview; it's a lesson in leadership and a deep dive into the complexities of the telecom industry. Her insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone aspiring to make a significant impact in the world of telecommunications.Connect with Isabelle on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube to learn more.

This week, Jeremy Pease, Chief Executive Officer of Colohouse, joins Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence on the Nomad Futurist Podcast to unpack his illustrious career in the digital infrastructure industry. With over 20 years of experience specializing in data centers and cloud hosting, Jeremy is no stranger to leading high-performing teams. Before taking the helm at Colohouse, he served as the Senior Vice President of Managed Services at DataBank, where he revitalized revenue streams across multiple business lines. He also held the role of Chief Operating Officer at both Aptum and Contegix, driving product innovation and operational excellence. A graduate of the University of Phoenix with an Associate of Arts in Business, Jeremy is a client advocate who brings a wealth of experience across the entire IT stack.Nabeel starts the conversation by asking Jeremy about his first steps into the data center industry:"I started more as a consumer in the data center space for quite a while. It was an interesting transition to go from being a customer to actually working on the data center side of things. It gave me a unique perspective on what customers really need."Phil and Nabeel are keen to understand the life lessons that have molded Jeremy into the multifaceted leader he is today: "I've enjoyed the journey because it allowed me to learn so many different parts of the business. From cloud hosting to security and compliance, understanding these diverse areas has given me a holistic view of what my teams do and what our customers expect."When asked about the advice he would impart to the younger generation, Jeremy offers a gem: "Transparency is key. I've always believed in being transparent with the organization. In my experience, employees often feel they're kept in the dark when leadership doesn't share information. Being open fosters a culture of trust and collaboration."Jeremy Pease's episode is not just a career retrospective; it's a masterclass in leadership and a deep dive into the intricacies of the data center industry. His insights make this episode a must-listen for anyone aspiring to make their mark in the world of digital infrastructure.Follow Colohouse on Linkedin to learn more.

This week, Michael Morey, President & CEO at Bluebird Network LLC, joins Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence on the Nomad Futurist Podcast to discuss his impressive career in the digital infrastructure industry. With more than 37 years of telecommunications experience, Morey has served as President & CEO of Voxitas, Senior Vice President at NuVox, Regional Vice President of Electric Lightwave, Inc. and held various management positions within his 13 years at AT&T. During his tenure at Bluebird Network, the company has more than doubled in size and was named as one of the fastest growing companies in Missouri in 2015.Nabeel kicks off the episode by asking Michael how he got exposed to science and technology and landed in this industry:“Like a lot of people out there, I just like to learn. I still love to learn. I'll watch anything. And so, science was the coolest thing to learn in school. It was the most difficult thing, and so I always tended towards whatever was the hardest, the most difficult. I saw it as the most challenging.”Phil and Nabeel are interested to know what lessons Michael learned that made him who he is today:“I would say some of the best lessons are listening. A lot of the top people in the industry are former salespeople and you know that the best salespeople are the ones that listen. So, listen to the people around you. Listen to your employees, to your investors, to your customers, to your friends, to your family, and try to make a difference.”Michael shared a lot of great insight in this episode, but Nabeel wants to know what advice he would give to the younger generation:“Nowadays, I think that if you spend more time trying to figure out proactively where you should go and what can make things happen for you, you are going to find the right place more often. You are going to be happier in those places and you're going to move up because moving sideways doesn't really help you much.”

In this episode, Nabeel Mahmood and Phillip Koblence are accompanied by Paul Peterson, Senior Director Facilities Manager at JLL overseeing operations at multiple data center locations in the Northeast on the CyrusOne account.In this position, Paul is a major piece in the puzzle to ensure that customers have uptime, availability and connectivity with their data set and data set requirements. Nabeel digs deeper asking, “What's your day-to-day job? Are you just keeping the data center active in life?” “We'reboots-on-the-ground engineers at the facilities, keeping everything going. We deal with the maintenance plans, budget forecasts, everything that operationally needs to happen at that data center from the critical side all the way to the carpets and the paint on the walls - It runs through our team.” Paul never really had an interest in school growing up. He shares some insight with our co-hosts on how that played a role in his journey:“I remember what it was like coming out of high school as not a great academic, not really knowing where I was going. I had to learn the hard way. I had to kind of figure things out and it was concerning…this is why I'm doing what I'm doing with you guys and I'm talking to trade schools, visiting students, and having these conversations.”Nabeel asks Paul, "What's next for you? What are you thinking?"“I'm very, very happy where I'm at. I think things again kind of fell into place for a reason and timelines worked, and I think that the success of the [CyrusOne] account is that we're heading in the right direction.”Paul leaves us with advice for the younger generation beginning their own career journeys in the industry:“The best thing I can say for the students is to follow their passions. Find your aptitudes, do things, and you have to enjoy what you're doing. I had to learn a lot of hard mistakes before I figured out how to get from A to B. But I think this is a great industry. Everybody I've met in this industry always has a positive trajectory about them and we're booming, it's getting bigger, faster every day. If we can get these students in the right mindset, give 'em the skills they need, I think there's gonna be some really tremendous players.”

On this episode, Nabeel and Phil are joined by Lee Smith, Data Center Consultant and Education Ambassador for the Nomad Futurist Foundation. Lee has over 30 years of digital infrastructure industry experience and is an accomplished international data center consultant, covering planning, strategy, design, and operations. During the last 15 years, he's been fully immersed in all matters related to designing, building, and operating mission-critical data centers.Lee’s educational background is in strategic marketing and economics, which from an outside perspective may not appear to have much to do with the data center space. So, Nabeel asks Lee how he found himself in this industry:“I was going to be appointed as a process controller at a large petrochemical organization in South Africa… and I wasn't too excited about it. So, I just asked the HR guy ‘Is there anything maybe in computers that you could show me?’ I walked into the computer room and there were two guys running around loading printer paper and tape reels and all of that, and I just knew. I looked at the guy and I said, ‘I gotta do this job. I have to do this.’”Lee's passion for education and unwavering commitment to standards never cease to inspire. Nabeel and Phil witness his desire to pay it forward, as he constantly engages in efforts to provide tools, resources, and educational materials to African communities which often lack access to them. Intrigued, Nabeel ponders why this transformative transition took place:“I guess in that case, it's where I come from. The African continent is not an easy place… it’s not always easy for people to be exposed to opportunities for education. Offering that opportunity to people to learn something new, to be able to grasp a concept through whatever means you can… for me that's first prize.”Learn more about Lee and the other Nomad Futurist Ambassadors: https://nomadfuturist.org/nomad-futurist-team/

On this episode of the Nomad Futurist Podcast, Nabeel and Phillip are joined by Walter Cannon, Vice President, Business Development at ZenFi Networks, a Boldyn Networks company. Walter leverages over 30 years of technology sales and executive management experience in the wireless, wholesale, and enterprise markets to lead sales teams in efficient delivery of network solutions that enable customers to grow their businesses more effectively. Walter serves as a perfect example that success can be achieved without a college degree. Nabeel and Phil kick off the conversation by asking Walter how his journey began:“So basically at 12 years old, my father comes home with a typewriter and a modem attached to it, and he's basically saying, ‘listen, you're going to learn how to program.’”Nabeel marvels at the tremendous accomplishments of Walter, who grew up in an underserved community, and asks what the driving force was that kept him going:“Part of it was hunger, I'm just going to be blunt. Having seen people that had nice things I was just like, ‘I’ve got to figure out what this hustle is and how I get there.’”Phil and Nabeel are left wondering: Knowing what he knows today, what would Walter tell his younger self or younger generation to do?“Listen, get your butt in those books. Understand processes, understand the value, the consequences, ‘cause it'll kill you. And then understand some form of technology because technology is good.”Learn more about Boldyn Networks: https://www.boldyn.com/

TheNomad Futurist team has had a lot of great people on the podcast over the lastthree and a half years, and a few personal experiences along the way as well.In this episode, Nabeel and Phillip take the opportunity to recap thefirst half of 2023, discuss future goals for the Foundation, and share someinsights on the industry. Theduo takes a look back at their journey thus far and discusses a question theyget asked a lot: Why did they start this podcast? Nabeelshares:“At the bottom of our hearts, it'sreally a lot of passion to create awareness and leave this world a better placethan we've found it for the next generation.” Philshares:“I think it's also a vehicle for ourguests to share the kind of unspoken things that they've come across in theirjourneys. It has provided a platform for people to take this kind of 30,000-footview of their own careers, of their own lives and find ways to articulatethings that they would not otherwise have been able to articulate - and whatwe've learned in many of these cases has been profound.” Educatingthe younger generation is a main goal of the Foundation and an important topicin this episode. Phil shares his view on what adults can do to aid in the nextgenerations success: “We as a society, as a community, asan industry and as parents can interject elements of our careers, elements ofwhat we do for a living into our kids' schooling, which would benefit not justthose kids, but the other kids in their class and the kids that come behindthem.” Accordingto Nabeel, the real purpose of this podcast is to reach out to listeners whowill join the Foundation’s journey and be a change agent.“We need everyone's help in spreadingthe word, creating awareness and giving the next generation an opportunity tobe better than we are. Give them a career path, give them a reason to do goodthings, I think that's really the core of the Foundation and what we arestriving for.”Learnmore about the Nomad Futurist Foundation: https://www.nomadfuturist.com/about-nomad-futurist/