In this episode, Jeff Smith discusses his extensive career journey, including his work with unmanned undersea vehicles (UUVs) and his experiences starting his own business. Jeff shares his insights on building strong teams, the challenges and opportunities in undersea exploration, and the importance of mentors and trusted networks in achieving success. Additionally, Jeff delves into his personal passion for scuba diving and underwater treasure hunting.

Episode Highlights:

00:57 How Jeff Became a Subsea and Seabed Warfare Consultant

02:14 Jeff Smith's Career Journey

05:21 The Leap of Faith: Starting a Business

13:44 Challenges and Opportunities in Undersea Exploration

Jeff Smith is a Subsea and Seabed Warfare Consultant with Poroy Global Advisors. Prior to recently joining PGA, Jeff was the VP/GM for Autonomous and Undersea Systems at Saab, Inc. responsible for growing a new US division focused on UUVs, ROVs, USVs, and Autonomy. Jeff stood up the AUS Division securing over $300M in long term programs, building out multiple new facilities, and staffing an exceptional team in less than 3 years. Prior to joining Saab, Jeff was a Chief Scientist for UUV Systems for BAE Systems FAST Labs. Jeff was the president and founder of Riptide Autonomous Solutions, a major market disruptor in the unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) market and brought the company to acquisition by BAE Systems in 4 years. Jeff has spent 30 years supporting the US Navy through his industry roles at General Dynamics, Bluefin Robotics, Riptide, BAE Systems, and now Saab. Over the past several years, Jeff has been selected as a UUV subject matter expert to participate in numerous war games and study panels focused on the future of undersea warfare. Jeff also holds patents in robotics, electro-optical systems, rapid prototyping, subsea battery safety systems, biomedical devices, and in a counter- sniper system, with additional patents pending. Jeff was formerly an advisor for Open Water Power, prior to their acquisition by L-3 Technologies. Jeff is also a member of the Board of Directors for Aretê Associates and numerous non-profit boards for defense, innovation, and blue technology.

Connect with Jeff:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsmithgdais/

Company Website: https://poroyglobal.com/

For more insights:

Book a call: https://bit.ly/4cToGDs

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In this episode, James Bates discusses his journey from the technology sector to healthcare, and the development of AdviNow’s AI-driven platform designed to improve medical practice efficiency. James shares the challenges and benefits of implementing AI in healthcare, emphasizing how it reduces clerical burdens for doctors, enhances patient care, and boosts profitability through efficient processes. James also highlights the difficulties faced by large healthcare systems in adopting new technologies and relates personal experiences that inspired his work. The conversation touches on various professional achievements and innovations, presenting a forward-looking vision for AI in healthcare.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to the Drop In CEO Podcast

03:12 Challenges in the Healthcare Industry

06:26 The Role of AI in Healthcare

31:31 Future of AI in Healthcare

James Bates is a visionary CEO, entrepreneur, and investor with a track record of leading high-growth technology companies. As CEO and Founder of AdviNow Medical, he pioneered the world’s first AI and AR-driven automated medical visit platform, securing $20M in funding and launching the company. He is also a general partner in a Fintech hedge fund and managing partner of A Big Capital, LLC, investing in technology startups, real estate, and FinTech. James has driven $1B in revenues at Freescale (NXP) and led Silicon Labs’ Asia Pacific growth to $500M. A board member and holder of nine patents, James holds a Master’s in Electrical Engineering from BYU and resides in Paradise Valley, Arizona.

Connect with James:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamessbates/

Company Website: www.advinow.com

For more insights:

Book a call: https://bit.ly/4cToGDs

Follow me on my YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/47GgMdn

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In this episode, Todd shares his unique career journey from sales in the funeral industry to leading a company specializing in cleaning and testing equipment for the electronics industry. They discuss the importance of customer service, continuous technology advancements, and Todd's strategic decisions during COVID-19 that have positioned the company for growth. The episode also covers the recent acquisition of a competitor, the challenges of merging companies, and Todd's advice for aspiring leaders.

Episode Highlights:

04:20 Lessons from the Funeral Industry

05:28 The Importance of Customer Service

07:28 Challenges and Strategies in Leadership

26:14 Acquisition and Future Plans

Todd is the President & CEO of Austin American Technology Corporation since 2016. Austin American Technology is a 38-year-old company specializing in cleaning and testing equipment development and manufacturing. Austin American Technology is headquartered in Burnet, Texas.

Todd has co-authored papers and articles in the areas of cleaning and microelectronic assembly processes. Todd has a BS in Business Administration from the College of Central Florida. Todd is a member of IPC, SMTA, and the Central Texas Electronics Association. Previous to joining at Austin American Technology, Todd worked in sales and distribution management.

Connect with Todd:

LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/todd-rountree,

Company LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/austinamericantechnology

Company Website: www.aat-corp.com

For more insights:

Book a call: https://bit.ly/4cToGDs

Follow me on my YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/47GgMdn

Sign up for my Weekly Newsletter: https://bit.ly/3T09kVc

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.