Best The Nerd Council Podcasts (2025)

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Season 7: Episode #009 - The State of The Galactic Empire 1:23:31

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17d ago1:23:31

1:23:31

This week on The Nerd Council, we’re diving headfirst into the galaxy far, far away to examine where Star Wars stands in 2025. With Disney doubling down on its streaming strategy following the sequel trilogy, we look at the current slate of projects—from The Mandalorian Season 4 and Andor Season 2 to The Acolyte and Skeleton Crew—and question wheth…

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Start Your Engines! A Complete Nerd Out on the 2025 Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix 31:55

3d ago31:55

31:55

It's been a tradition for nearly a decade, TechVibe loves geeking out on the Pittsburgh Vintage Grand Prix (PVGP). For 43 years, vehicles from around the world storm through Schenley Park showcasing Pittsburgh as one of the only locations in the country racing classic cars on public streets. PVGP Race Director Dan DelBianco and TechVibe Grand Prix …

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Pittsburgh Innovation: Carnegie Mellon University Joins MDS Rely as Third Partner 22:01

4d ago22:01

22:01

We all know that Pittsburgh is home to some serious technology research chops. And those chops get even stronger when our universities work together! On this episode of TechVibe, we welcome John Kitchin from Carnegie Mellon Universty and Paul Leu from the University of Pittsburgh to discuss how CMU joined the MDS Rely, a cooperative that promotes p…

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Sketching Life, One Panel at a Time - A Chat with Francisco Hnilo 1:17:01

7d ago1:17:01

1:17:01

🎨 Inside the Mind of Vitalerium’s Artist: Francisco Hnilo Interview | Comic Book Art, Webtoons & More In this exclusive USDN interview, we sit down with Francisco Hnilo—the talented artist behind Vitalerium—to dive deep into his creative origins, process, inspirations, and what's next for this visually stunning comic series. From storyboards to pos…

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AI Isn't Magic - It's Knowledge: A Pittsburgh Approach to Digital Transformation 26:31

8d ago26:31

26:31

How can small businesses navigate the AI revolution without getting lost in the technological noise? In a world where AI is rapidly transforming industries, many companies struggle to understand how to effectively integrate AI technologies without risking their resources or falling behind competitors. TechVibe is excited to welcome Anna Maria Berta…

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Beyond the Hype: How Pittsburgh is Rewriting the AI and Technology Playbook 22:01

11d ago22:01

22:01

Are you ready to discover how Pittsburgh is positioning itself as a deep tech AI powerhouse that could reshape the future of technology? In a world where AI is rapidly transforming industries, understanding how regions like Pittsburgh are developing cutting-edge technological innovations could be your key to staying ahead of the technological curve…

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Exploring Duquesne University's Tech Prowess in Pittsburgh: Meet the Innovators 29:42

14d ago29:42

29:42

Ever wondered how Duquesne University is contributing to the tech ecosystem in Pittsburgh? TechVibe welcomes Dr. Donald Simon, a Pittsburgh native with 35 years at Duquesne, and Dr. Raffaele Romagnoli, a recent addition from Italy, to explore Duquesne's master's program in computer science, which covers algorithms, AI, machine learning, and network…

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Product Management Unfiltered: How to Navigate the Challenges of Tech Innovation 25:12

17d ago25:12

25:12

Are you a product manager feeling burnt out, or an entrepreneur struggling to bring your innovative idea to market? In today's competitive business landscape, many professionals feel stuck, unsure how to navigate product development, manage team dynamics, and create value without exhausting themselves. On this episode of TechVibe, we welcome Heathe…

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Inside Comtec Systems's Game-Changing Approach to Cost Efficiency 22:05

18d ago22:05

22:05

As a savvy business owner or manager, you're always looking for ways not just to make money, but to save it, too! TechVibe welcomes Mike Vertolli, founder of Comtec Systems, to learn how Comtec focuses on helping organizations optimize spending, recover costs, and procure new services in the public utility and telecommunications spaces. Vertolli de…

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Pittsburgh Innovator: CustosIQ Shares Top Cybersecurity Tips to Keep Hackers Away 22:05

25d ago22:05

22:05

Are cybercriminals targeting your business right now, and you don't even know it? In today's digital landscape, every business - from two-person startups to billion-dollar corporations - faces constant cyber threats that can destroy your company's reputation and financial stability in minutes. TechVibe welcomes Isabelle Syring and Robert Ragan of C…

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VeVe x Star Wars: What’s Next for Digital Collectibles? | Interview with Dan Crothers-VeVe Co-Founder 1:01:54

27d ago1:01:54

1:01:54

VeVe x Star Wars: What’s Next for Digital Collectibles? | Interview with Dan Crothers In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Dan Crothers, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of VeVe, to explore what's coming to the platform—especially for Star Wars fans! From AR-enhanced Stormtrooper helmets to Mandalorian dioramas, this is your insider look into the gal…

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Pittsburgh Education: Get the Inside Track on Duquesne's Computer Science School 22:05

1M ago22:05

22:05

Duquesne University is quietly building one of the region's top computer science schools that is attracting talent from around the world. TechVibe turns up the volume as it welcomes Dr. Donald Simon, a Pittsburgh native with 35 years at Duquesne, and Dr. Raffaele Romagnoli, a recent addition from Italy, to explore Duquesne's master's program in com…

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Pittsburgh Innovator: Audacy Drives the Future of Radio and Multimedia 22:01

1M ago22:01

22:01

Pittsburgh is the home of many firsts, including broadcasting when KDKA hit the air in 1920 as the world's first commercially licensed radio station. TechVibe welcomes Michael Spacciapolli (Spacc), Sr. Vice President & Market Manager at Audacy, to explore how the multimedia company is taking 100.1 FM AM 1020 KDKA into the future. Listen to learn mo…

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AI's Power Hunger: Inside the Data Center Revolution Transforming Tech 25:25

1M ago25:25

25:25

Are you ready to discover how cutting-edge data centers and cybersecurity are reshaping the future of technology right before our eyes? In a world where AI, power infrastructure, and digital security are colliding at breakneck speed, this episode reveals the critical insights businesses and tech professionals need to stay ahead of the curve. TechVi…

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Season 7: Episode #008 - The League Of Mentally Disturbed Heroes* 1:30:09

1M ago1:30:09

1:30:09

We’re diving into Marvel’s latest release: Thunderbolts*...Sorry, The New Avengers! With a line-up of former villains, antiheroes, and fan-favourites like Bucky, Yelena, and Red Guardian, we’re asking: is this Marvel’s answer to the Suicide Squad — or something entirely different? Does this film hold up to the rest of Phase 5? What does the formati…

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Vitalerium Unveiled: World-Building, Adaptation, and the Journey from Page to Panel 1:52:11

1M ago1:52:11

1:52:11

Vitalerium Unveiled: World-Building, Adaptation, and the Journey from Page to Panel | Podcast Interview Join us for an in-depth conversation exploring the making of Vitalerium: Descent Into the Void, a sci-fi epic that bridges the gap between prose and sequential storytelling. In this episode, we dive into the origins of the Vitalerium universe, th…

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Pittsburgh Innovator: DataStrike Hits the Managed Services Target 20:17

1M ago20:17

20:17

Want a front-row seat to one of Pittsburgh's fastest-growing tech companies? In this episode of TechVibe, host Jonathan Kersting welcomes Rob Brown from DataStrike, a trailblazing company setting the standard in IT infrastructure managed services. Discover how DataStrike has soared with an astonishing 260% growth by specializing in scalable solutio…

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Pittsburgh Innovation! PPG Details 140 Years of Technology and Scientific Advancements 22:01

2M ago22:01

22:01

There couldn't be a more iconic Pittsburgh brand that anchors downtown Pittsburgh than PPG! We're wrapping up our TechVibe Neighborhood Tour at Huntington Bank's Flagship Branch on Liberty Avenue by welcoming Bryan Iams of PPG. Discover how PPG is revolutionizing technology, innovation, and urban development through cutting-edge coatings that prote…

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Pittsburgh Tech: Navigating the Future of AI With Himalaya Quantitative Solutions 18:57

2M ago18:57

18:57

Are you worried that AI could become a runaway train of uncontrolled risks and potential dangers? In a world where AI is rapidly transforming every industry, understanding how to implement artificial intelligence safely and responsibly has never been more critical for businesses and professionals. TechVibe welcxomes Jenny Yu of Himalaya Quantitativ…

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Reviving the Explorer: Pittsburgh’s First Hybrid Passenger Vessel Needs a New Propulsion System 16:18

2M ago16:18

16:18

Nearly 20 years ago, the Rivers of Steel Explorer was a first-of-its-kind vessel with a hybrid propulsion system powering the boat up and down our three rivers for tours and countless STEM classes alike. After two decades, Explorer needs a new propulsion system and Rivers of Steel is looking for solutions! In this episode of Tech Vibe Pittsburgh, h…

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Digital CSI: How Pittsburgh's Bit-x-Bit Cracks Phones and Solves Cyber Mysteries 22:01

2M ago22:01

22:01

The TechVibe Neighborhood Tour gets better and better as we explore the tech companies calling downtown Pittsburgh home! John Unice, CEO of Bit-x-Bit, stops by Huntington Bank's Flagship branch on Liberty Avenue to update us on how his cyber forensics company helps law firms investigate digital evidence. Listen now to: Learn about cutting-edge digi…

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Embracing Change in the Pittsburgh Tech Ecosystem: The Importance of Building Resilient Teams 39:10

2M ago39:10

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Are you struggling to keep your team aligned and motivated in today's rapidly changing business landscape? In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed and workplace dynamics are constantly shifting, leaders are desperate for strategies to build resilient, high-performing teams that can navigate uncertainty. TechVibe welcomes Lisa Slayton…

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Ben Lacy Talks Samson #2 – Indie Comic, Revenge, & Kickstarter Reveal! 1:01:36

2M ago1:01:36

1:01:36

In this episode of the United States Department of Nerds (USDN), we sit down with indie comic creator Ben Lacy to dive into his latest Kickstarter project — Samson #2. This isn’t your typical superhero tale. Samson is a gritty blend of revenge, war, and horror set in an alternate-history world that challenges the boundaries of comic storytelling. 🎙…

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Pittsburgh-Canada Connection: Innovation and Trade Despite the Tariffs! 23:33

2M ago23:33

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Are tariffs stifling innovation between Pittsburgh and Canada? Not if Consul General of Canada Tom Clark has anything to do with it! In this episode of Tech Vibe Pittsburgh, Jonathan Kersting from the Pittsburgh Technology Council interviews Clark about the vibrant tech and trade relationship between Pittsburgh and Canada. Clark shares insights on …

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Pittsburgh Innovation: AI Safety Decoded--Inside the Guardrails of Responsible Technology 19:05

2M ago19:05

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Are you worried that AI could become a runaway train of uncontrolled risks and potential dangers? In a world where AI is rapidly transforming every industry, understanding how to implement artificial intelligence safely and responsibly has never been more critical for businesses and professionals. For this episode, the Pittsburgh Technology Council…

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CGI Anchors Downtown Pittsburgh's Technology Sector 22:01

2M ago22:01

22:01

The TechVibe Neighborhood Tour continues from Huntington Bank's Flagship Branch on Liberty Avenue in Downtown Pittsburgh as we put a spotlight on CGI, one of the biggest tech employers in downtown. CGI's Deb Mohapatra stops by to fill us in on the tech consultancy's growing presence in Pittsburgh. He will discuss CGI's use of AI to improve client s…

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Pittsburgh Insights: Navigating Chaos--How to Build Unbreakable Teams in a Rapidly Changing World 39:10

2M ago39:10

39:10

Are you struggling to keep your team aligned and motivated in today's rapidly changing business landscape? In a world where technology evolves at lightning speed and workplace dynamics are constantly shifting, leaders are desperate for strategies to build resilient, high-performing teams that can navigate uncertainty. The Pittsburgh Technology Coun…

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Discover ProductCamp: Pittsburgh's Unique 'Unconference' Event for Product Enthusiasts 10:27

2M ago10:27

10:27

ProductCamp Pittsburgh is the FREE premiere event for product managers and product marketing professionals, innovators, marketers, designers, CxOs, founders, engineers, and researchers who are all eager to discuss best practices, share insights and make connections with top minds in the local product community. Jonathan Kersting from the Pittsburgh…

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Revolutionizing Healthcare in Pittsburgh: Highmark's Digital Front Door Experience 34:05

2M ago34:05

34:05

In an era where technology seamlessly integrates into every aspect of our lives, the intersection of healthcare and technology has given rise to innovative solutions that are transforming how we manage and interact with our health. Highmark's Digital Front Door is a prime example of such innovation, and it’s reshaping the way millions access health…

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Pittsburgh Innovation: CannonDesign Leverages AI and Advanced Tech to Build Smart Spaces 34:32

2M ago34:32

34:32

Can technology transform a building from a static structure into a living, breathing entity that adapts and learns? In a world where workplace efficiency and sustainability are critical, discover how cutting-edge design technologies are revolutionizing how we create and interact with our built environments. For this episode, the Pittsburgh Technolo…

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Rebuilding Pittsburgh: How RIDC Shapes Pittsburgh’s Technology Landscape 22:01

2M ago22:01

22:01

The Regional Industrial Development Corporation (RIDC) is celebrating 70 years of building the spaces for Pittsburgh's technology and manufacturing industries and has marked the occasion with its new book "Rebuilding Pittsburgh." Tune in to TechVibe this Sunday as our Neighborhood Tour continues at Huntington Bank's Flagship Branch in Downtown Pitt…

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Downtown Rising: Sustainable Pittsburgh Works Across Sectors to Build Growth and Revitalization 22:00

2M ago22:00

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The TechVibe Neighborhood Tour continues from Huntington Bank's new flagship branch on Liberty Avenue to explore the revitalization of Downtown Pittsburgh. We'll kick off the show with Branch Manager Chuck Schons to discuss the bank's investment in re-energizing downtown Pittsburgh. Bhavini Patel, the new Executive Director of Sustainable Pittsburg…

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Season 7: Episode #007 - "THINK, MARK!" 1:30:36

2M ago1:30:36

1:30:36

This week on The Nerd Council, we’re diving into all three seasons of Invincible, breaking down the most jaw-dropping moments, standout character arcs, and the show's evolving themes. From the iconic train scene and Omni-Man’s brutal betrayal to the chaos of the Mark War and the blood-soaked battle with Conquest, we explore how Mark Grayson has gro…

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Pittsburgh Power: Core Natural Resources Attends White House Energy Executive Order Signing 17:08

3M ago17:08

17:08

Navigating today's complex energy landscape is a formidable task, especially when myths and facts about coal's role in energy and industry swirl in the public consciousness. Coal continues to be one of the most abundant, affordable, and dispatchable forms of energy in the world. It remains a vital component in the making of steel, cement, fertiliz…

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Innovation in Motion: Josh Caputo and the Humotech Revolution in Pittsburgh 17:51

3M ago17:51

17:51

Think robotic exoskelotons are science fiction and years away from practical use? Think twice, because Humotech is bringing the technology to market now to fill a unique and very important neeed -- prosthetic feet! In this episode of TechVibe Pittsburgh, host Jonathan Kersting of the Pittsburgh Technology Council interviews Josh Caputo, founder of …

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Visit Pittsburgh Leads Effort for the 2026 NFL Draft 22:00

3M ago22:00

22:00

Our TechVibe Neighborhood Tour continues a deep-dive nerd out on the revitalization of Downtown Pittsburgh from Huntington Bank's Flagship Branch on Liberty Avenue. Tune in to hear Huntington Branch Manager Chuck Schons detail the bank's community-focused Huntington Honors program before we welcome Derek Dawson, VP of Strategic Initiatives at Visit…

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Season 7: Episode #006 - Gaming On The Big Screen Gone Wrong 1:49:23

3M ago1:49:23

1:49:23

What Is The Best Video Game Movie Adaptation? In this episode of The Nerd Council Podcast, we look at the best and worst video games adapted to film and TV! From Super Mario to Castlevania, The Last of Us to Uncharted - what video game has had the best adaptation? We discuss what it takes to make a great video game adaptation and what has caused ma…

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Hiring in Pittsburgh: An Inside Look at ECI’s Plan to Add 100 New Career Opportunities 22:42

3M ago22:42

22:42

Are you ready to discover a hidden gem in Pittsburgh's industrial automation landscape that's hiring 100 new employees and could be your next career home? If you're a professional seeking a meaningful career with real growth potential, this episode reveals how ECI is revolutionizing industrial automation while offering employees unprecedented owner…

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USDN Interview w/ Bobby Campbell – Tales of the Illuminatus #2 1:32:57

3M ago1:32:57

1:32:57

USDN Interview w/ Bobby Campbell – Tales of the Illuminatus In this exciting episode of the United States Department of Nerds (USDN) podcast, we're diving deep into the world of conspiracy theories, secret societies, and mystical elements with Bobby Campbell, the mastermind behind the Tales of the Illuminatus comic book. Hosted by your Chairman, we…

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Pittsburgh Innovation: Secure-Transmit Changes the Way to Securely Send Files 29:09

3M ago29:09

29:09

Are you tired of complicated file-sharing services that compromise your data security, require endless account setups, and nickel-and-dime you with subscriptions? Get ready to meet the game-changing solution that wants to revolutionize how you send sensitive files. In this episode, we dive into Secure-Transmit a breakthrough file transmission servi…

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An Instinct for Innovation: Jen Frazier's Journey to Build Prequel Solutions 19:09

3M ago19:09

19:09

Following your instincts is easier said than done in the fast-paced world of growing a tech startup, but for Jen Frazier it's been the only way to live and led her to taking the helm at Prequel Solutions, one of the Pittsburgh region's top tech staffing firms that's redefining talent acquisition. In this episode the Pittsburgh Technology Council's …

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Transforming Downtown Pittsburgh to Live, Work and Play 22:00

3M ago22:00

22:00

Get your front-row seat for the amazing work that is transforming Downtown Pittsburgh as place to live, work and play as TechVibe records from Huntington Bank's Flagship branch in Market Square. Once an old McDonald's restaurant, Huntington has invested and transformed the space into a bright and welcoming environment for both business and people. …

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Inside Pittsburgh's Tech Boom: Highlights from the IW & EY Investment Report 17:03

3M ago17:03

17:03

Invenstment in Pittsburgh's tech industry continues to grow and we have the numbers to prove it! In this episode, we nerd out on the release of the 13th annual investment report compiled by Innovation Works and Ernst & Young (EY). Guests Ven Raju from Innovation Works and Darrell Smalley from EY share insights on the significant growth seen in Pitt…

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Season 7: Episode #005 - Hollywood's Creative Decline 1:46:31

3M ago1:46:31

1:46:31

Has Hollywood Officially Run Out of Ideas? In this episode of The Nerd Council, we dive into the never-ending cycle of reboots, legacy sequels, and live-action remakes—is Hollywood out of fresh ideas? From Robocop to Matrix Resurrections and Coming 2 America, we break down some of the most infamous failed attempts at reviving old franchises. We als…

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USDN Interview w/ Bruno Catarino | Scinematic Figments Kickstarter Preview 1:09:42

3M ago1:09:42

1:09:42

USDN Interview w/ Bruno Catarino | Scinematic Figments Kickstarter Preview Link to the KickStarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/redwulfcomics/scinematic-figments-a-scifi-anthology-with-a-cinematic-feel?ref=nav_search&result=project&term=scinematic%20figments&total_hits=3 Welcome to the United States Department of Nerds (USDN) – where we’re…

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Pittsburgh Innovates! Reshaping Agile Practices in the AI Era 24:59

3M ago24:59

24:59

Over the last 25 years the Agile methodology has changed, a lot! And the adoption of AI has made it even more useful than ever. For this episode of TechVibe Pittsburgh, we welcome Christopher Ruch, Founder and CEO of Agile Rising, to bring us up to speed on the latest advancement and uses of Agile. Christopher will detail: Agile is evolving beyond …

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Pittsburgh Startup Helps Businesses Make Sense of AI and Emerging Technologies 22:00

3M ago22:00

22:00

In a world where technology evolves faster than most businesses can adapt, discover how AI isn't about replacing workers, but empowering them to do more meaningful work. TechVibe welcomes Dan Simkins and Doogie Levine from the consultancy ATiiD to explain their approach to helping businesses integrate AI into their operations, emphasizing the impor…

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Pittsburgh Innovation: Poetica Marketing Has Top Tips for SEO, GEO and More 24:49

3M ago24:49

24:49

Looking to keep up with the latest digital marketing trends and brush up on the basics to keep your company's visibility topnotch? TechVibe welcomes Pat Schober, Founder of Poetica Marketing, to explore how: SEO and GEO are evolving marketing strategies that require creating high-quality, well-structured content optimized for both human readers and…

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Season 7: Episode #004 - Can't Get To Paradise from Atlanta 1:50:08

4M ago1:50:08

1:50:08

In this jam-packed episode of The Nerd Council, we dive into the latest in nerd culture! We break down Paradise on Disney+, the upcoming sci-fi thriller starring Ray Fisher and Ben Affleck—could this be Fisher’s big post-Justice League moment? Then, we tackle Captain America: Brave New World and the state of the MCU—will this be the film to reignit…

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HIKE2 Innovation Summit: Exploring Emerging Business Technologies 22:03

4M ago22:03

22:03

Looking for the latest insight on emerging business technologies? Check out this eye-opening conversation with Kelly King from Pittsburgh-based HIKE2 about their upcoming Innovation Summit. If you're wondering how AI and technology are reshaping business, you have to listen for all of the details. The Innovation Summit (March 26-27 at August Wilson…