Next In Time

Hosted by ST Tangirala

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Episodes

192

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Most podcasts focus on current success stories but rarely focuses on the people of tomorrow. This show talks about how the mission and vision of a startup, small business, organization, or even an individual CAN and WILL make a strong impact in the future. It emphasizes the wonder of possibilities in the future through these interviews and how these entities can help shape the future.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 22, 202629 min

Episode 187: Reinventing Non-Alcoholic Wine | Antonino Li Brizzi, Founder of CLINQ ZERO

What does it take to leave a successful corporate career and build an entirely new consumer brand? In this episode of The Next In Time Podcast, we sit down with Antonino “Anto” Li Brizzi, former CEO of Omnia Technologies North America and founder of CLINQ ZERO, a non-alcoholic sparkling wine brand created to make celebrations more inclusive without compromising the experience of drinking real wine. Anto shares how his journey from Sicily to Dallas, his leadership experience in the beverage technology industry, and his understanding of dealcoholization inspired him to enter the growing non-alcoholic beverage market. He also discusses the transition from corporate executive to entrepreneur, the risks involved in starting over, and the lessons he has carried from leading established organizations into building a brand from the ground up. Together, we explore innovation in the wine industry, changing consumer preferences, calculated risk-taking, and what it takes to transform years of industry knowledge into a meaningful new venture. You can connect with Antonio through these platforms: Website: ⁠https://clinqzero.com/⁠ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoninolibrizzi/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clinq.zero/

August 9, 202629 min

Episode 186: Turning AI’s Energy Challenge into an Opportunity | Brendan van der Es, Founder of Synterran Systems

What if the enormous energy demands of artificial intelligence could become part of a cleaner, more efficient power system? In this episode of Next In Time, we sit down with Brendan van der Es, founder of Synterran Systems, to explore his ambitious vision for the future of AI infrastructure. Synterran is developing an integrated system that combines high-performance computing, on-site power generation, waste-heat recovery, and carbon capture—turning processes normally treated as separate problems into parts of one thermodynamic cycle. Brendan shares how his background spanning physics, refinery automation, fraud modeling, and enterprise technology shaped Synterran’s systems-level approach. We discuss the growing energy demands of AI factories, the potential to reuse stranded turbine infrastructure, and a long-term pathway in which hydrocarbons could produce both power and durable carbon materials. It’s a fascinating conversation about energy, computation, industrial symbiosis, and what it takes to move a bold technical idea from theory toward real-world deployment. You can connect with Brendan through these platforms: Website: https://synterran.systems/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendan-van-der-es-34714059/

August 1, 202632 min

AI Series Episode 1: From Chatbots to AI Agents | Miles Maggio & Justin Zelaya of Prest0

In the first installment of The Next in Time AI Series, ST sits down with Miles Maggio and Justin Zelaya, co-founders of Prest0, to explore the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. The conversation traces AI’s progression from basic chatbots and generative tools to autonomous agents capable of completing tasks, coordinating workflows, and supporting real business operations. Miles and Justin explain what distinguishes an AI agent from a traditional chatbot, where the technology currently delivers meaningful value, and why human judgment remains essential. They also discuss the opportunities and limitations surrounding agentic AI, how businesses can prepare for its adoption, and what this shift could mean for the future of work. Whether you are a founder, business leader, or simply curious about where AI is headed, this episode provides an accessible look at the transition from AI that answers questions to AI that takes action. You can connect with Miles and Justin through these platforms: Website: https://prest0.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesprojolivia/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-zelaya-2236b5292/

July 26, 202629 min

Episode 185: From Chatbots to AI Employees: Building the Future of Work | Miles Maggio & Justin Zelaya, Co-Founders of Prest0

In this episode, we sit down with Miles Maggio and Justin Zelaya, co-founders of Prest0, a company developing AI employees for organizations across law, finance, and marketing. Prest0 is building an enterprise AI workforce designed to move beyond the limitations of traditional chatbots and basic automation. Its AI employees can learn, retain organizational knowledge, and execute digital work from beginning to end—helping businesses expand their capabilities without relying entirely on additional headcount. Miles and Justin discuss the evolution of artificial intelligence from conversational assistants to autonomous agents capable of performing meaningful work. We explore the technology behind these systems, the importance of memory and behavioral engineering, and the challenges of making AI agents reliable enough for real-world business environments. They also share their experiences building Prest0, their respective approaches to technology and go-to-market execution, and their broader vision for a future in which AI operates alongside human teams as an increasingly capable digital workforce. Join us for a conversation about AI employees, agentic technology, entrepreneurship, and how the transition from chatbots to intelligent agents could transform the future of business and work. Website: https://prest0.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesprojolivia/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-zelaya-2236b5292/

July 19, 202632 min

Episode 184: The Fastest Sport in History: Bringing Professional Racing to Space | Philip Hover-Smoot, Founder & CEO of Atlas Cup

What happens when the excitement of Formula One meets the rapidly expanding space economy? In this episode of The Next In Time Podcast, we speak with Philip Hover-Smoot, Founder and CEO of Atlas Cup: the world’s first professional orbital racing league. Atlas Cup plans to bring uncrewed spacecraft together in head-to-head competitions in low Earth orbit, creating an entirely new category at the intersection of space technology, professional sports, and global media. Philip explains how orbital racing could become more than a spectacle. By testing spacecraft and components under real competitive conditions, Atlas Cup can generate valuable performance data, accelerate technological development, and give emerging space companies a global platform on which to demonstrate their capabilities. Drawing from his leadership experience at Scout Space, Spaceflight, and Momentus, Philip also shares what it takes to build a company across multiple complex industries. We explore the future of commercial space, the evolution of sports entertainment, and Atlas Cup’s ambitious vision to make space inspiring and accessible to audiences around the world. You can connect with Philip and Atlas Cup through these platforms: Website: https://www.atlascup.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/atlas-cup-inc/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiphoversmoot/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atlascupofficial/ X: https://x.com/atlas_cup/

July 12, 202627 min

Episode 183: Leading the AI Transformation in Software Development | Ricardo Arcia, Founder & CEO of Teravision Technologies

Software companies today face a difficult balancing act: customers expect faster innovation, AI is reshaping how products are built, and finding the right engineering talent has never been more competitive. Many organizations struggle to scale development teams without sacrificing quality, collaboration, or speed. Ricardo Arcia helps technology leaders navigate this transformation. As the Founder and CEO of Teravision Technologies, Ricardo has spent more than two decades helping SaaS companies accelerate product development through nearshore engineering teams, Agile methodologies, and, more recently, AI-driven software development. His experience leading globally distributed teams has given him a front-row seat to how technology organizations must evolve in the age of artificial intelligence. Audiences will learn how AI is changing the software development lifecycle, what separates successful engineering organizations from those falling behind, and how leaders can build high-performing teams across borders without losing culture or execution. Ricardo also shares practical insights on digital transformation, cognitive leadership, and why the future belongs to organizations that redesign their systems—not just adopt new tools. You can connect with Ricardo through these platforms: Website: https://www.teravisiontech.com/

July 4, 202629 min

Episode 182: 250th Anniversary Special: Advancing American Innovation Through Neurotechnology | Jon Hacker, CEO & Co-Founder of NeurGear

Chronic stress, anxiety, and burnout have become everyday realities for millions of people. While medications and coping mechanisms can provide temporary relief, many individuals are searching for science-backed solutions that address the root cause of nervous system dysregulation rather than simply masking the symptoms. Jon Hacker is helping redefine the future of mental wellness through neurotechnology. As the CEO and co-founder of NeurGear, he is developing ZenBud, the world's first ultrasound-based vagus nerve stimulator designed to restore balance, reduce stress, and improve emotional resilience without drugs or invasive procedures. By combining neuroscience, biomedical engineering, and entrepreneurship, Jon is pioneering a new approach to helping people regain control of their mental well-being while also investing in American manufacturing to maintain quality, accelerate innovation, strengthen supply chain resilience, and support high-skilled domestic jobs. Audiences will learn how the vagus nerve influences stress and emotional health, why chronic nervous system dysregulation has become so widespread, and how emerging neurotechnologies could transform the future of anxiety treatment. Jon also discusses the advantages of manufacturing advanced medical technology in the United States, the challenges of bringing breakthrough health products to market, and how science-driven innovation can improve lives while strengthening domestic industry. As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States, this episode recognizes the innovators who continue to shape our nation's future. Jon Hacker represents a new generation of American entrepreneurs—combining scientific research, advanced manufacturing, and a commitment to building breakthrough technology here at home. His work with NeurGear reflects the spirit of innovation, resilience, and problem-solving that has driven America forward for two and a half centuries. You can connect with Jon through these platforms:

June 28, 202622 min

Episode 181: How Understanding Human Behavior Drives Business Growth | Joe Rockey, Founder Of Elite Business Cruises

Many businesses struggle to grow not because they lack talent, but because they misunderstand what truly drives human behavior. Sales conversations stall, teams lose motivation, workplace tensions go unaddressed, and leaders often respond with more processes instead of solving the underlying issues. The result is lower performance, weaker relationships, and missed opportunities. Joe Rockey helps business owners, sales leaders, and executives unlock performance by understanding the psychology behind how people think, communicate, and make decisions. Having built 29 companies and advised organizations on leadership, sales, and organizational behavior, Joe focuses on changing the behaviors that produce lasting results rather than relying on scripts, gimmicks, or temporary motivation. Audiences will learn how to uncover the real motivations behind customer decisions, create incentive systems that sustain high performance, build stronger workplace relationships through honest communication, and lead teams in a way that improves both culture and results. Joe shares practical frameworks that business leaders can apply immediately to increase trust, strengthen sales performance, and build organizations where people consistently perform at their best. You can connect with Joe through these platforms: Website: https://elitebusinesscruises.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joerockey/

June 22, 202624 min

Episode 180: Self-Taught E-Commerce Entrepreneur | Marc Pitts, Co-Founder of Discount Vape Pen

Many entrepreneurs spend years searching for the “perfect” business idea, only to get stuck in planning, uncertainty, or fear of taking the first step. In a world obsessed with venture capital and overnight success stories, it's easy to overlook how some of the most successful companies are built through persistence, customer demand, and relentless execution. Marc Pitts is a living example of what can happen when you start small and stay committed. As the co-founder of Discount Vape Pen, he helped transform a simple eBay listing into a nationally recognized e-commerce business serving customers across the country. Over more than a decade, Marc and his co-founders have grown the company by validating market demand, adapting to industry changes, and remaining deeply involved in the day-to-day operations of the business. Audiences will learn how to identify opportunities in emerging markets, validate a business before scaling, and build a sustainable company through disciplined execution rather than hype. Marc shares lessons from growing an e-commerce brand from the ground up, navigating a rapidly evolving industry, and maintaining an entrepreneurial mindset long after the startup phase has passed. You can connect with Marc through these platforms: Website: https://discountvapepen.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-pitts-4a2957391

June 13, 202630 min

Episode 179: The Future of Coffee: Robotic Drive-Thrus and Automated Retail | Rob Whitten & Jane Lo, Co-Founders of P!ng

What if your morning coffee could be ready before you even pull into the drive-thru? In this episode of The Next In Time Podcast , I sit down with Jane Lo and Rob Whitten , the co-founders of ** p!ng , a venture-backed startup reimagining the drive-thru experience through robotics, automation, and intelligent customer recognition. Instead of building traditional coffee shops with large footprints, staffing challenges, and operational complexity, p!ng has developed a compact 120-square-foot robotic drive-thru that uses sensor-augmented geofencing technology to recognize customers as they arrive and begin preparing their order before they reach the pickup window. The result is a faster, more efficient customer experience that reduces waste, lowers labor requirements, and transforms underutilized parking lots into profitable retail destinations. Rob brings experience as a former Army Captain and robotics leader who understands both operational excellence and customer experience at scale. Jane previously helped build billion-dollar brands and specializes in transforming complex technologies into products people genuinely enjoy using. Together, they are building a future where automation enhances convenience without sacrificing the personal touch customers expect. In our conversation, we explore the future of automated retail, the challenges of scaling robotics businesses, lessons learned from launching a physical technology product, and how founders can bridge the gap between cutting-edge innovation and everyday consumer behavior. The origin story behind p!ng How robotic drive-thrus are changing the coffee industry Why traditional café models face growing operational challenges Using geofencing and automation to create a seamless customer experience Building hardware and software together as a startup Lessons from Amazon Robotics, SharkNinja, and the military The economics of automated retail and labor efficiencyWhat the future of drive-thru commerce could look like You can connect with Rob and Jane through these platforms: Website: https://pingthru.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-whitten-pingthru/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-lo-ping/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pingthrucoffee/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pingthrucoffee/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@pingthru Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pingthru