Portfolio Executive Podcast

What could change if marketing had a permanent seat at the boardroom table?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive Podcast’ Graeme Davies of UXL Marketing Communications explores with hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill, how taking a flexible, sector-agnostic approach to marketing can create stronger strategies, sharper priorities, and more sustainable business growth.You’ll discover:Why a sector-agnostic approach can bring fresh thinking and new perspectives to your marketing strategy.How generative AI is changing search, including the rise of GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) and what it means for being discovered online.Why effective marketing starts with understanding the customer journey, rather than simply focusing on individual tactics.How marketing can move beyond a tactical function to become a strategic business discipline at board level.Why having marketing represented at the executive table can influence better business decisions.How to prioritise marketing activity when there are more ideas and opportunities than resources.Why long-term marketing planning often creates greater impact than chasing short-term wins.The challenges of measuring marketing ROI and distinguishing meaningful business outcomes from vanity metrics.How consultative discovery and scoping can uncover the marketing challenges that really need solving.Why long-term client relationships can create deeper and more measurable impact.How community and peer support can benefit fractional and portfolio leaders navigating complex marketing and leadership challenges.TimeStamps00:00 Introduction to Graeme Davies and his sector-agnostic approach00:52 What does sector-agnostic mean and why is it valuable?02:25 The importance of fresh eyes in marketing strategy03:36 The rise of generative AI and its impact on search04:47 Audience-first approach to AI and the customer journey05:16 Marketing as a strategic business function06:28 The need for marketing representation at board level07:24 Prioritisation and focus in marketing activities10:11 Using a marketing whiteboard for idea prioritisation11:14 Why marketing is underrepresented in boardrooms12:39 The broader view of marketing beyond traditional tactics14:17 Measuring marketing effectiveness and ROI15:16 Vanity metrics versus real business impact16:38 Discovering and scoping through consultative work17:32 Long-term client relationships and impact19:38 The community aspect of portfolio leadership20:34 The value of peer support for fractional leaders21:18 Closing thoughts and key takeaways from GraemeGuest & Host Links:Graeme Davies: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/graeme-davies/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/ Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.

How can AI understand the connections between millions of pieces of information?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ podcast, Edwin Trebels, founder of LangOptima, explores with hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill, how AI is evolving beyond large language models and why trustworthy, responsible AI will be essential as these technologies become more powerful and accessible.Edwin shares his journey from language translation into AI, explaining how AI is transforming translation, automation and the way businesses access information. He also explores neurosymbolic AI, knowledge graphs and structured data, and how these approaches could help make AI more reliable.From hallucinations and deepfakes to voice AI and digital twins, this conversation looks at both the opportunities and risks of rapidly advancing AI—and what businesses need to consider when adopting it.You'll discover:Why AI systems can produce hallucinations, or “confabulations”How neurosymbolic AI combines different approaches to AIWhat knowledge graphs bring to AI and structured informationWhy guardrails and responsible deployment matterHow AI is transforming language translation and automationWhy mimicking human voices can be both powerful and dangerousHow deepfakes and voice AI are changing the technology landscapeThe role of legal frameworks and compliance in AIHow AI can become more accessible to SMEsWhat trustworthy AI could look like over the next 3–5 yearsWhy building an AI community can help people navigate this rapidly changing fieldTimeStamps00:00 Introduction to Edwin Trebels and LangOptima01:04 Edwin's background in language translation and AI02:04 AI's impact on language translation and automation04:26 Hallucinations in AI and confabulation05:32 Understanding AI confabulation and its implications07:04 Responsible AI and ethical considerations08:07 Legal frameworks and compliance in AI09:24 Neurosymbolic AI and structured knowledge10:31 Industry research and academic collaboration12:53 Voice AI evolution and digital twins14:41 Community building for knowledge graphs and responsible AI16:55 Trustworthy AI in the next 3–5 years18:57 Common misconceptions about AI and paid vs free tools19:45 Closing thoughts and future outlookGuest & Host Links:Edwin Trebels: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/edwin-trebels/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/ Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.

Are you adopting AI because it’s right for your business — or simply because everyone else is doing it?AI is evolving at an extraordinary pace, but rushing to adopt the latest tools can create more problems than it solves. In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’, Katherine Mora, AI strategist and fractional CTO, explains to hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill why businesses need to get their foundations right before diving into AI.Katherine explores how businesses can approach AI strategically — from understanding their business model, workflows and people, to choosing the right tools, managing security risks and avoiding costly technology lock-in.She also explains how a fractional CTO can help businesses navigate the rapidly changing AI landscape, bringing strategic technology expertise without the need for a full-time CTO.You’ll discover:•          Why AI strategy starts with understanding your business, not choosing a tool•          The risks of rushing into AI automation without the right foundations•          How to choose AI tools without becoming unnecessarily locked into one platform•          What businesses need to understand about LLMs, AI agents and emerging technologies•          Why AI security and governance need to be considered from the beginning•          How a fractional CTO can provide strategic guidance in a rapidly changing technology landscape•          The balance between strategic thinking and hands-on AI implementation•          Why cross-department collaboration is essential for successful AI projects•          How businesses can empower their existing teams to make better use of AI•          Why building AI solutions without the right expertise can create significant risks TimeStamps:00:00 Introduction to Katherine Mora and AI Strategy02:43 The Myth of Quick AI Automation05:00 Choosing the Right AI Tools and Avoiding Lock-in07:18 Understanding Core AI Concepts09:24 Security and Vulnerabilities in AI Projects12:09 The Value of Fractional CTOs in AI Strategy13:49 Balancing Strategic and Hands-On AI Work16:22 The Importance of Cross-Department Collaboration in AI17:00 Empowering Business Experts with AI18:04 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook Guest & Host Links:Katherine Mora: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/katherine-mora/Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.

How can leaders use AI to transform their organisations without losing the human judgement, values and oversight that make good leadership possible?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive Podcast’, hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill sit down with José Solera, fractional CIO and CTO, to explore what AI really means for leadership, data management and organisational transformation.Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in technology, José shares practical lessons on using AI effectively — from improving data quality and building better teams to navigating AI bias, regulation and the risks of moving too quickly.You’ll discover:Why data quality and consistency are fundamental to successful AI implementationHow AI is changing expectations of technology leaders and organisationsWhy starting small with AI projects can help manage expectations and deliver meaningful resultsHow proactive teams can reduce reactivity and create a stronger foundation for innovationWhy human oversight remains essential when implementing AIHow organisations can use AI to augment human skills rather than simply replace themWhat leaders can learn from major technology projects such as Y2K and Intel InsideHow to think about AI ethics, bias and AI driftWhere AI can already be used to tackle legal and regulatory challengesHow technology leaders can identify practical, achievable AI opportunitiesWhy a human-centric approach to AI matters for organisational culture and valuesThe value of connecting with a community of portfolio and fractional executivesTimeStamps:00:00 Introduction to AI and Leadership02:03 Leadership Lessons from 25 Years in Tech04:07 Scope and Focus in Data Management07:07 Y2K and the Importance of Preparedness08:37 Cloud Data and Data Mess09:16 Where Things Usually Go Wrong in Data10:15 Communication and Expectations Between Teams11:01 Reactive vs Proactive Teams12:34 AI's Impact on Leadership Expectations13:03 Training AI and Managing Bias14:26 AI Drift and Human Oversight15:22 Using AI to Build Systems Quickly17:23 Adopting AI Responsibly and Ethically18:49 AI Augmentation and Automation20:13 Legal and Regulatory Use Cases for AI21:22 First Steps for Tech Leaders in AI22:28 Focusing on Easy Wins in AI Projects23:31 The Importance of Human-Centric AI24:14 The Value of the Portfolio Executive Community25:32 Final Thoughts and Advice for LeadersGuest & Host Links:José Solera: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/jose-solera/Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/ Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.

Are you fixing marketing problems… or redesigning your entire marketing strategy for real business growth?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill chat with Rachael Wheatley unpacking the true role of a fractional CMO—and why modern businesses need more than just tactical marketing fixes. If you’ve ever wondered whether your marketing is working as a system, this conversation will challenge how you think about marketing leadership, operations, and long-term success.You’ll discover:• Why marketing leaders should act more like architects than plumbers• What a fractional CMO actually does day-to-day (and what they don’t do)• How to assess your marketing capability across the whole business• Why customer engagement and marketing success depend on internal alignment• The importance of finding allies and champions within your organisation• When it makes sense to hire a fractional CMO vs. a full-time marketing leader• How marketing strategy and operations drive sustainable business growth• The different ways fractional CMO engagements evolve—from short-term fixes to long-term partnershipsTimeStamps:00:00 Architect vs. Plumber: Rethinking Marketing Roles03:00 Understanding the Role of a Fractional CMO06:07 Building Relationships and Finding Champions08:51 The Day-to-Day of a Fractional CMO11:53 When to Hire a Fractional CMO15:05 The Common Arc of Engagement18:07 Key Takeaways for Businesses in NeedGuest & Host Links:Rachael Wheatley: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/rachael-wheatley/ Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/ Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/ Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.

Can businesses grow without losing sight of sustainability and impact?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive Podcast’ Rene Bonomi shares with Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill his journey from Brazil to Cornell and explores the ideas that have shaped his approach to sustainable finance, impact entrepreneurship, and global business.From biotech startups and European accelerator programmes to founding ‘Bonomics’, Rene discusses how financial education, sustainability, and strong communities can help entrepreneurs build businesses that are designed not just for growth, but for lasting impact.We explore why understanding your numbers is essential before making business decisions, how businesses can balance growth with sustainability, and what entrepreneurs can learn from working across different cultures. Rene also shares his experiences supporting impactful projects spanning charities, NGOs, startups, and entrepreneurial communities.Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, founder, or business leader, this conversation offers practical insights into building sustainable businesses and creating meaningful impact. You'll discover:•          How Rene Bonomi’s journey from Brazil to Cornell shaped his perspective on business and impact•          Why sustainability is essential for long-term business growth•          How to balance ambitious growth with sustainable business practices•          Why entrepreneurs need to understand their numbers before making important decisions•          How financial education can empower entrepreneurs to build stronger businesses•          The role of cross-cultural understanding in successful international business•          Key differences between doing business in Brazil, the US, and other cultural environments•          How strong relationships and community support can create meaningful opportunities•          What Rene has learned from working with charities, NGOs, startups, and impact projects•          How a fractional CFO can help businesses make more informed financial decisions Time Stamps00:00 Introduction to Rene Bonomi and his background02:02 Rene’s journey from Brazil to Cornell and his focus on impact03:53 Experience in biotech startups and European accelerator programmes05:38 The founding of Bonomics and its mission07:04 Balancing growth and sustainability in business08:31 Rene’s training academy and its practical approach11:00 Impactful projects and community building12:35 Cross-cultural business insights between the US and Brazil14:00 Adapting to different cultural environments15:53 Key financial advice for business owners16:51 Rene’s vision for his role as a fractional CFO Guest & Host Links:Rene Bonomi: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/rene-bonomi/Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.

Are you wasting time and money on marketing tactics that aren't actually reaching the right customers?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ marketing expert Paul Rees explores with Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill the common marketing pitfalls facing SMEs and explains why having a clear strategy matters more than simply doing more marketing.From “spray and pray” marketing to identifying your ideal customer, Paul shares practical insights into how businesses can focus their efforts, avoid costly mistakes and make their marketing more effective.The conversation also explores the growing role of AI in marketing — and why businesses should use AI to augment human expertise rather than replace it. You'll discover•          Why “spray and pray” marketing can waste valuable time and resources•          Why SMEs need a clear marketing strategy before investing in tactics•          How to identify and focus on your ideal target audience•          The difference between strategy and tactics and why both matter•          How targeted marketing can help businesses scale more effectively•          How AI can augment marketing expertise and where human judgement remains essential•          Common marketing habits businesses should consider leaving behind•          Why tracking and measuring results is critical to marketing success•          How focusing on the right customers can improve marketing efficiency and business growth•          The value of community and networks, including the Portfolio Executive TimeStamps00:00 Introduction to the podcast and guest02:05 Early warning signs of poor marketing strategy04:21 Universal marketing strategies across business sizes07:24 The role of strategic targeting in marketing09:29 Using AI to augment marketing efforts11:59 Common marketing habits to let go of13:16 Scaling business through targeted marketing14:55 The importance of tracking and measuring marketing results15:56 Community and network benefits of the Portfolio Executive16:42 Closing remarks and future outlook Guest & Host Links:Paul Rees: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/paul-rees/Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.  

Are you really in control of your business finances—or just reacting to them?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill sit down with Atif Hasan, international fractional CFO, to break down what it really takes to build financial clarity, stability, and strategic growth in modern businesses.From cash flow blind spots to the rise of AI in finance, Atif explains how founders and business owners can make smarter decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and scale with confidence—especially in complex international markets. You’ll discover:•          What a fractional CFO actually does—and the real problem they solve for businesses•          Why most financial issues in startups are actually cash flow problems in disguise•          The most common financial mistakes founders make when scaling too fast•          When a business actually needs a fractional CFO (and when it doesn’t)•          How AI is changing financial forecasting, reporting, and decision-making•          Why cash flow is the true lifeline of any growing business•          The key challenges of managing international business expansion•          How financial strategy directly impacts business growth and survival•          What “financial clarity” looks like in a real, scaling company  TimeStamps:00:00 Introduction to Fractional CFOs01:12 Understanding the Role of a Fractional CFO05:31 Navigating International Business Challenges07:23 The Importance of Cash Flow Management09:48 When to Engage a Fractional CFO11:42 Identifying Patterns in Business Operations13:28 The Impact of AI on CFO Roles16:04 Client Expectations and Communication17:12 Quick Wins for Financial Clarity18:39 Preparing for Client Engagements19:33 Identifying Ideal Clients21:38 Overcoming Hesitations About Fractional CFOs24:06 Closing ThoughtsGuest & Host Links:Atif Hasan: Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/ Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.

What does it really take to build a successful portfolio career — beyond skills, experience, and ambition?In this episode of the ‘Portfolio Executive’ David Simmons shares his journey as a portfolio executive with hosts Gareth Wax and Valerie Merrill and explores the transformative impact of holistic coaching, the importance of community, and how AI can help executives create more sustainable and effective businesses.Through his experience working with Charles McLachlan, David reveals how understanding the whole person — not just professional capabilities — can unlock hidden strengths, improve decision-making, and create a more balanced approach to career growth.The conversation also explores the challenges of building a portfolio career, maintaining long-term client relationships, leveraging AI to increase efficiency, and why community and networking are essential for thriving as an independent executive.You'll discover:•          How holistic coaching can uncover strengths and abilities you may not recognise in yourself•          Why portfolio executives need to focus on the whole person, not just their professional expertise•          How community and networking provide support, collaboration, and new opportunities•          Practical ways AI can reduce workload and improve business decision-making•          Strategies for building sustainable client relationships and a long-term portfolio career•          The importance of work-life balance when navigating the uncertainty of portfolio work•          How sharing ideas across different industries can spark innovation and new perspectives Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to David and the podcast01:45 Meeting Charles McLachlan and initial coaching experience02:44 The impact of coaching on personal and professional growth04:08 Charles's multi-dimensional perspective and wisdom06:02 Understanding the whole person in a portfolio career07:56 Managing the bumpy ride of a portfolio career08:26 The ripple effect of external systems on personal life09:28 The importance of recognising diverse talents and interests10:26 Long-term client relationship strategies12:02 Building a sustainable business model13:23 Harnessing AI to boost productivity and decision-making14:56 The value of community and networking for portfolio executives16:55 Support and learning within the Portfolio Executive group19:03 Cross-pollination of ideas across diverse fields20:04 Final thoughts and encouragement for executives Guest & Host Links:David Simmons: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/david-simmons/Valerie Merrill: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/valerie-merrill/Gareth Wax: https://portfolioexecutive.biz/executive/gareth-wax/Explore the Portfolio Executive community, learn how to step into fractional leadership, and stay tuned for more insights in upcoming episodes.