//podcastplus.net/feed/focus-24-7~c08c7657 Welcome to Focus: Enter the Cloud! The podcast that dives deep into the world of cloud technology and the people in the space. Host Lloyd Gordon explores it all,  from the latest trends, innovations, insights in the cloud space all the way through to the things that make the professionals tick. We explore mindsets, challenges, successes, work life balance, and everything in between.   We provide our listeners with perspectives from some of the most influential voices and minds in the space. Whether you're a seasoned cloud professional or just starting your journey in the field, Enter the Cloud is here to help you stay informed about the developments and advancements in cloud tech and prepare your mindset for what comes next!From engineers to CTOs and executives, our guests come from a variety of backgrounds and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. So, join us on this exciting journey as we explore the world of cloud technology and connect with the people who are shaping the future of the industry. Fri, 24 Jul 2026 22:40:59 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15429539-from-military-pay-clerk-to-workday-financials-leader-career-transitions-and-remote-work-challenges-with-kevin-isaac.mp3 Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a military pay clerk to a leader in the world of Workday Financials? Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Kevin Isaac, an industry veteran whose journey is as inspiring as it is insightful. Kevin takes us through his eclectic career path, from his early days at Lloyds of London and American Express to managing projects in the insurance and gaming sectors. He reflects candidly on the financial pros and cons of moving from permanent roles to contracting, and how those choices paved the way for his venture into business transformation and leadership.  In a fascinating recount, Kevin gives us an insider’s view of the early days of Workday's financial management system (FINS) implementation during an IPO transition in 2006. He shares the strategic decision-making behind choosing Workday over Dynamics and the hurdles faced due to the system's novelty. With vivid descriptions, Kevin outlines the meticulous nin... Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15429539-from-military-pay-clerk-to-workday-financials-leader-career-transitions-and-remote-work-challenges-with-kevin-isaac.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15429539-from-military-pay-clerk-to-workday-financials-leader-career-transitions-and-remote-work-challenges-with-kevin-isaac.mp3 Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a military pay clerk to a leader in the world of Workday Financials? Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Kevin Isaac, an industry veteran whose journey is as inspiring as it is insightful. Kevin takes us through his eclectic career path, from his early days at Lloyds of London and American Express to managing projects in the insurance and gaming sectors. He reflects candidly on the financial pros and cons of moving from permanent roles to contracting, and how those choices paved the way for his venture into business transformation and leadership.  In a fascinating recount, Kevin gives us an insider’s view of the early days of Workday's financial management system (FINS) implementation during an IPO transition in 2006. He shares the strategic decision-making behind choosing Workday over Dynamics and the hurdles faced due to the system's novelty. With vivid descriptions, Kevin outlines the meticulous nin... Mon, 05 Aug 2024 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15429539-from-military-pay-clerk-to-workday-financials-leader-career-transitions-and-remote-work-challenges-with-kevin-isaac.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15236996-focus-enter-the-cloud-shifting-mindset-embracing-cloud-solutions-building-successful-teams.mp3 Send us a text The conversation covers Matt Lawrence's journey from PeopleSoft to co-founding a successful Workday consultancy, navigating the challenges of building and selling a business, and the impact of COVID-19 on the cloud market. It also explores the decision to leave a large global partner and the shift in mindset towards cloud solutions. The conversation covers the evolution of the Workday ecosystem, key decisions that led to business success, the transition of the business, and the future of cloud markets and AI. It also delves into the stress and challenges faced in the business journey, the importance of building successful teams, and advice for those entering the workday ecosystem. Key Takeaways: - Matt Lawrence's journey from PeopleSoft to co-founding a successful Workday consultancy - Challenges of building and selling a business - Impact of COVID-19 on the cloud market - Shift in mindset towards cloud solutions - Decision to leave the Workday ecosystem and pursu... Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15236996-focus-enter-the-cloud-shifting-mindset-embracing-cloud-solutions-building-successful-teams.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15236996-focus-enter-the-cloud-shifting-mindset-embracing-cloud-solutions-building-successful-teams.mp3 Send us a text The conversation covers Matt Lawrence's journey from PeopleSoft to co-founding a successful Workday consultancy, navigating the challenges of building and selling a business, and the impact of COVID-19 on the cloud market. It also explores the decision to leave a large global partner and the shift in mindset towards cloud solutions. The conversation covers the evolution of the Workday ecosystem, key decisions that led to business success, the transition of the business, and the future of cloud markets and AI. It also delves into the stress and challenges faced in the business journey, the importance of building successful teams, and advice for those entering the workday ecosystem. Key Takeaways: - Matt Lawrence's journey from PeopleSoft to co-founding a successful Workday consultancy - Challenges of building and selling a business - Impact of COVID-19 on the cloud market - Shift in mindset towards cloud solutions - Decision to leave the Workday ecosystem and pursu... Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/15236996-focus-enter-the-cloud-shifting-mindset-embracing-cloud-solutions-building-successful-teams.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/14940357-charting-the-evolution-of-enterprise-tech-with-oracle-expert-richard-pepper.mp3 Step into the shoes of a tech wizard and Oracle guru, Richard Pepper, as he takes us on a nostalgic ride through his storied career. We kick it off by reminiscing on the groundbreaking MOD JPA program, where Richard's leadership seamlessly integrated Oracle tech for an impressive 350,000 users, ensuring even those in the most remote locations, like submarines, stayed connected. His reflections aren't just techno-babble; they're a masterclass in the human aspect of tech projects, team synergy, and the art of standardizing processes in a setting as varied as the military. Ever wonder how the Oracle market stays so fiercely competitive? Richard lays down the law on effective recruitment strategies and the underrated craft of building enduring relationships. With a focus on the human touch at Veran Performance, we unearth the secrets to assembling teams that not only meet the mark but excel under pressure. This candid conversation doesn't skirt around the challenges either.... Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/14940357-charting-the-evolution-of-enterprise-tech-with-oracle-expert-richard-pepper.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14940357-charting-the-evolution-of-enterprise-tech-with-oracle-expert-richard-pepper.mp3 Send us a text Step into the shoes of a tech wizard and Oracle guru, Richard Pepper, as he takes us on a nostalgic ride through his storied career. We kick it off by reminiscing on the groundbreaking MOD JPA program, where Richard's leadership seamlessly integrated Oracle tech for an impressive 350,000 users, ensuring even those in the most remote locations, like submarines, stayed connected. His reflections aren't just techno-babble; they're a masterclass in the human aspect of tech projects, team synergy, and the art of standardizing processes in a setting as varied as the military. Ever wonder how the Oracle market stays so fiercely competitive? Richard lays down the law on effective recruitment strategies and the underrated craft of building enduring relationships. With a focus on the human touch at Veran Performance, we unearth the secrets to assembling teams that not only meet the mark but excel under pressure. This candid conversation doesn't skirt around the... Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14940357-charting-the-evolution-of-enterprise-tech-with-oracle-expert-richard-pepper.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14940357-charting-the-evolution-of-enterprise-tech-with-oracle-expert-richard-pepper.mp3 Send us a text Step into the shoes of a tech wizard and Oracle guru, Richard Pepper, as he takes us on a nostalgic ride through his storied career. We kick it off by reminiscing on the groundbreaking MOD JPA program, where Richard's leadership seamlessly integrated Oracle tech for an impressive 350,000 users, ensuring even those in the most remote locations, like submarines, stayed connected. His reflections aren't just techno-babble; they're a masterclass in the human aspect of tech projects, team synergy, and the art of standardizing processes in a setting as varied as the military. Ever wonder how the Oracle market stays so fiercely competitive? Richard lays down the law on effective recruitment strategies and the underrated craft of building enduring relationships. With a focus on the human touch at Veran Performance, we unearth the secrets to assembling teams that not only meet the mark but excel under pressure. This candid conversation doesn't skirt around the... Tue, 23 Apr 2024 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14940357-charting-the-evolution-of-enterprise-tech-with-oracle-expert-richard-pepper.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/14718517-unleashing-the-olympic-mindset-with-derek-redmond.mp3 Sit back and prepare to be captivated by Derek Redmond, a British sprinting legend whose story of triumph and perseverance is nothing short of extraordinary. Our riveting conversation travels from Derek's early days at school, to the pulse-racing tracks of international stadiums where he shattered records and defied expectations. His journey, marked by both athletic prowess and indomitable spirit, brings to life the essence of what it means to have an Olympian mindset amidst the fiercest of challenges. In a series of heartfelt and often humorous exchanges, Derek reminisces about the competitive zeal that transformed him from an average club runner to a global icon in the world of athletics. The episode is flecked with moments of levity, as we talk about racing Premier League footballers and the domestic rivalry of taking out the bins—proving that the competitive flame burns bright long after the stadium lights dim. Yet, it's the profound lessons of commitment, parental guidance, and th... Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/14718517-unleashing-the-olympic-mindset-with-derek-redmond.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14718517-unleashing-the-olympic-mindset-with-derek-redmond.mp3 Send us a text Sit back and prepare to be captivated by Derek Redmond, a British sprinting legend whose story of triumph and perseverance is nothing short of extraordinary. Our riveting conversation travels from Derek's early days at school, to the pulse-racing tracks of international stadiums where he shattered records and defied expectations. His journey, marked by both athletic prowess and indomitable spirit, brings to life the essence of what it means to have an Olympian mindset amidst the fiercest of challenges. In a series of heartfelt and often humorous exchanges, Derek reminisces about the competitive zeal that transformed him from an average club runner to a global icon in the world of athletics. The episode is flecked with moments of levity, as we talk about racing Premier League footballers and the domestic rivalry of taking out the bins—proving that the competitive flame burns bright long after the stadium lights dim. Yet, it's the profound lessons of commitment, parent... Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14718517-unleashing-the-olympic-mindset-with-derek-redmond.mp3 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14718517-unleashing-the-olympic-mindset-with-derek-redmond.mp3 Send us a text Sit back and prepare to be captivated by Derek Redmond, a British sprinting legend whose story of triumph and perseverance is nothing short of extraordinary. Our riveting conversation travels from Derek's early days at school, to the pulse-racing tracks of international stadiums where he shattered records and defied expectations. His journey, marked by both athletic prowess and indomitable spirit, brings to life the essence of what it means to have an Olympian mindset amidst the fiercest of challenges. In a series of heartfelt and often humorous exchanges, Derek reminisces about the competitive zeal that transformed him from an average club runner to a global icon in the world of athletics. The episode is flecked with moments of levity, as we talk about racing Premier League footballers and the domestic rivalry of taking out the bins—proving that the competitive flame burns bright long after the stadium lights dim. Yet, it's the profound lessons of commitment, parent... Tue, 26 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1322572/episodes/14718517-unleashing-the-olympic-mindset-with-derek-redmond.mp3