Future Tech And Foresight

This episode explores how intelligent safety systems, predictive maintenance, and IIoT technologies are reshaping industrial operations—and what it takes to lead through that transformation.

About the Episode:

In today’s episode, we dive into the intersection of safety, technology, and innovation in industrial environments. As more companies adopt intelligent systems and automation, the conversation is shifting from “if” to “how” we integrate predictive maintenance, electrical safety, and connected platforms into existing operations. It’s not just about efficiency—it’s about protecting workers, reducing downtime, and building smarter systems that evolve with your business.

 We explore the real-world applications of industrial IoT (IIoT), from preventing electrical hazards to streamlining maintenance workflows. You'll hear how startups and established manufacturers alike are rethinking legacy systems and what leadership really looks like in this new era. We also touch on reshoring trends, the importance of company culture in driving innovation, and what the “factory of the future” could mean for businesses trying to stay competitive. Whether you're a founder, engineer, or just curious about the future of industrial tech, this episode is packed with insights on how smart technology is reshaping the backbone of our economy.

About the Guest:
Drew Allen is the President and CEO of Grace Technologies, Inc. Under his leadership, Grace Technologies has solidified its status as a pioneer in electrical safety and predictive maintenance, consistently ranking as one of Iowa’s Top Workplaces for the past five years.
Driven by a passion for innovation and startups, Drew established Maple Studios in 2023, the first venture studio in eastern Iowa. The studio supports and accelerates new ventures by providing development resources, capital, and mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs creating industrial products.
Drew serves on the advisory boards of Atom Power, Inc., a company revolutionizing the power industry with the first solid-state circuit breakers, and Proxxi, a company specializing in wearable safety technology designed to protect industrial workers from electrical hazards. He is also a member of the Board of YPO Iowa, a global leadership community of more than 29,000 chief executives in 130 countries, driven by the belief that the world needs better leaders.
Before becoming CEO of Grace, Drew started hosting the Factory Futurist Podcast, where he engages with thought leaders and innovators in high-tech manufacturing. The podcast focuses on uncovering the secrets of sustaining high-performance leadership in technology, both professionally and personally.

This episode explores how AI is transforming mental health therapy, the challenges of adoption, and the potential for AI-driven platforms to expand access and engagement.

About the Episode:

This episode explores the intersection of mental health therapy and AI, focusing on the development of the Anonymous Drama program and how AI can enhance therapy delivery. The discussion covers the challenges of integrating AI into therapeutic practices, including overcoming resistance and misconceptions about its role in mental health.

The conversation also delves into how AI, including ChatGPT, can be a valuable tool for expanding access to mental health resources, streamlining therapy processes, and improving emotional well-being. Lastly, the episode examines the potential of AI in creating a more polished and engaging app, increasing the reach and impact of therapy programs.

About the Guest:

Mark MacNicol is a mind coach, writer, and creator of Anonymous Drama, a unique form of drama therapy for individuals who typically have no interest in drama or therapy. With a Master’s degree in Television Drama Writing, he merges fiction with lived experience to help participants process trauma in a safe, anonymous environment. His approach has been especially effective in prisons, rehabilitation centers, and community groups.

His work focuses on supporting vulnerable and marginalized communities, particularly in recovery and justice sectors. He has written and directed feature films, theatre productions, and led applied theatre programs in high-security prisons. His own experiences overcoming addiction and growing up in a challenging environment shape much of his work, making him a strong advocate for mental health, rehabilitation, and self-awareness.

Website: https://stan.store/markmacnicol

Marc and Evan Robinson explore how AI is transforming real estate, from personalized home searches and predictive market insights to cutting broker fees and reshaping the role of real estate agents.

About the Episode:

Evan and I discuss the potential of his AI real estate agent, Relm, to simplify the process of finding and acquiring a home by using natural language and AI to scan listing images and match users' preferences. We also explore how Relm could disrupt the work of brokers and real estate agents, as well as the potential for integrating blockchain and crypto into AI platforms. Our conversation also touched on the impact of emerging technologies like AI, blockchain, and virtual reality in the real estate industry, along with the successful beta of a new product in the U.S. markets.

About the Guest:

Evan Robinson is redefining the home search experience as the co-founder of Relm AI, a groundbreaking platform that has already attracted thousands of users in just two months of beta launch. By leveraging advanced AI technologies, Relm AI enables highly personalized home searches using natural language, helping users find ideal properties based on their lifestyle and needs.

With a background in politics and housing policy, Evan brings a unique perspective to solving systemic challenges in real estate. He has tackled critical issues like affordability and accessibility, blending his expertise with cutting-edge technology to streamline the complex home-buying process. Under his leadership, Relm AI is set for rapid national expansion, aiming to revolutionize a $120 billion market plagued by inefficiencies.

Evan is also known as a visionary leader, assembling innovative, cross-disciplinary teams that challenge traditional tech development norms. His work has gained attention for its potential to save billions annually for renters and homebuyers, making him a sought-after speaker on topics like AI innovation, housing affordability, and creative leadership.

Marc and Zain dive into the growing adoption of AI in businesses, the challenges of implementation, AI-driven advertising, data privacy concerns, and how generative AI is transforming corporate strategy and HR management.

About the Episode:
Marc and Zain discussed the increasing adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in organizations, the challenges of implementing AI technologies, and the potential applications of AI in various industries.They also explored the importance of aligning business strategy with data strategy for effective AI implementation, the potential for AI-driven advertising, and the need for data privacy and protection in AI development. Lastly, they discussed the potential of using generative AI tools to simplify HR policy and procedure management in companies and the importance of data and AI in the future of corporations.

About the Guest:

Zainulabedin Shah is a visionary leader with over 18 years of experience in data strategy, analytics, and AI, specializing in driving business transformation and growth. As CEO and Co-Founder of Zeed, he empowers companies through cutting-edge data solutions. His accomplishments include modernizing data platforms for a $5B global company, achieving $2M in annual savings, and scaling a $2M auto startup into a $70M business with a 143% CAGR. Zainulabedin’s expertise spans M&A integrations, digital transformation, and fostering data-driven cultures, offering valuable insights at the intersection of technology and business leadership.

Marc and Corbett explore how AI is transforming marketing, advertising, and content creation, its impact on jobs, and the future of AI-generated media.

About the Episode:

Marc and Corbett discussed the integration of AI into various industries, including marketing, advertising, and content creation, and its potential impact on job markets and the entertainment industry. They also explored the rapid development and adoption of AI tools, the potential for AI-generated content, and the future of natural language commands in technology.

About the Guest:

Corbett Drummey is VP of brand collaborations at Lightricks, where he drives strategic partnerships between Lightricks and brands, leveraging technology to enhance and accelerate marketing and advertising campaigns. He also oversees strategic marketing for Lightricks’ AI-powered storytelling platform, LTX Studio. Corbett was co-founder and CEO of Popular Pays, the industry-leading software company that enabled an agile approach to advertising, which was acquired by Lightricks in March 2022. Corbett made the 2018 Forbes 30 Under 30 in marketing and advertising and is an alumnus of Y Combinator (W15).