The QTS Experience
The QTS Experience
Dave McCall
Episode 221: John Coster — Systems Thinking, AI Disruption, and Why Philosophers Make Great Technologists
1 hour 8 minutes Posted May 6, 2025 at 5:11 pm.
Introduction
John’s Early Life and Vocational High School
Learning Systems Thinking from Chaos
Journey from Electrician to Business Leader
Microsoft Recruitment and Bill Gates Quip
Transition to Technology and Pre-Computer Era
Embracing PCs and Spreadsheets for Productivity
Microsoft Data Center Failure and IT Lessons
Balancing Human Intuition with Technology
Graduate Studies in Theology and Moral Implications
Fostering Philosophical Discussions in Tech
Sustainability and AI in T-Mobile’s Operations
Debating Data Center Reliability and Uptime Institute
AI’s Limitations and Need for Domain Experts
Building a Culture of Collaboration
Building a Culture of Collaboration
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Show notes
David McCall sits down with John Coster, the master electrician turned systems thinker, to explore why AI might break your systems — and why your best defense is a little philosophy, a lot of collaboration, and maybe a good spreadsheet. Expect humor, reflection, and big questions about human flourishing.